Building a Career in Tax – From Trainee to Tax Lawyer

Alex Paterson, an associate in our Tax Strategy & Benefits Practice, based in our Manchester office, tells us about his career development at the firm. He discusses his route into law and how the firm supported him to qualify as a tax specialist.

What can you tell us about your career with the firm so far?

I’ve enjoyed building my legal career with the firm, having joined the firm’s vacation scheme back in 2016 before progressing to a corporate paralegal role and completing my training contract, before qualifying into the tax team in 2020.

More recently, I challenged myself to complete my chartered tax exams. They are a notoriously tough accreditation to achieve, but I knew it would enhance my ability to provide complex tax advice on behalf of the firm and demonstrate an in-depth level of tax knowledge for our clients, so I set out to study alongside my full-time role.

The exams are normally completed over a period of 18 months to two years, but I decided to attempt them in one sitting. Over the course of nine months, I committed to studying outside of working hours and over weekends. The firm was incredibly understanding and supportive, offering me time away from the day job to attend classes and a period of study leave before the exams themselves. I already knew the firm was committed to my professional development having completed my training here, but this backing really enabled me to give these exams my best shot.

Shortly after the exams, my partner and I took a well-earned break and jetted off to Colombia to travel and explore. While we were away, I found out I passed the exams and I got engaged – two of my greatest achievements to date in one holiday!

What advice would you give to someone starting their career with us?

Ambitious tax exams are definitely optional – but in a global law firm, I think it’s important to build relationships across all our offices. It will increase your exposure to great work and great clients, but also connect you with more of our great people. One of the reasons I chose to join the firm was the culture and genuine kindness from all levels of seniority. You can ask anyone a question or for advice here. I’m lucky enough to have mentors at the firm who have been there for me from day one, supporting my career and providing me with advice on a daily basis. Our mentoring program is great for helping you make those links.

I’d also say: be yourself. There is no one-size-fits-all approach here. Yes, we value people who have the potential to become exceptional future lawyers, but we are also looking for people who are a pleasure to be around.