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Lubna .

Tax specialist/Manager/Techical leader

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Customer Compliance

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Top Insider Advice

When I moved from Pakistan, I was told by many that the only jobs I can get is working in a shop as graduate careers aren't for us. The fact that I didn't take their word made such a difference. Self-belief is the first part of the equation and once you have that, top it up with doing your research and acting on it as actions make the most difference. There is a lot of material available for applications and what it takes to be a civil servant at HMRC. Have some time to read and understand it before applying. Lastly, overthinking is not your friend, so my advice is to do your thinking but DO NOT over think and take actions to make a plunge!

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Career path

Tax specialist/Manager/Techical leader

HMRC

Started 07/2015 to Present

Company

What do you like about your job and the company?

Working at HMRC is not just rewarding but also challenging, especially in the area of my work. Tax avoidance has been a headline in many papers and still makes headlines. We in HMRC work to help everyone pay their taxes on time and tackle the use of complex avoidance. I enjoy leading a team of technical experts who are innovative, solution oriented and hard working.

Greatest achievements

I worked on a project to deliver settlements for customers who wished to settle their avoidance use. This was at the start of Covid when I led a team made of colleagues from all across the country. I delivered 100s of millions in tax by leading the team, motivating them at a time when it was the most difficult challenging time for everyone in the UK.

Other insiders

Alan

Customer Compliance Manager

Top Insider Advice

It is important to keep trying. Not everybody will make it first time, I did not when applying for Tax Professional Training, but I was put on a reserve list and called up later. Many do not make it first time but they do make it second time round. The process for recruitment can be long, but do not get disheartened, this is to give everybody the best chance of being accepted. If you can, get feedback and consider it for future applications. Feedback will often point our your weak area that can easily be improved with a bit of practice. If you do get on a training programme, be aware that though tough, they want you to succeed and will do everything they can to support you in achieving the end goal. Do say if you need extra support, they cannot provide it unless you tell them you need it. I am dyslexic and they took this into account for exams providing computer rather than writing and also extra time for reading.

Sarah

Communications business partner

Top Insider Advice

I've had a huge variety of roles in HMRC, and I've enjoyed all of them. I've found it's not always necessary to chase promotion. A sideways move to another area can expand your horizons and build your skills and this is recognised when you're ready to take the next step. I've always tried to maintain job satisfaction above all else. I've done a couple of jobs I've really hated, so I moved on and found something else. I've found if I'm happy in my job, I perform better and this is noticed. Also, don't be afraid to ask for opportunities or for what you want. I've always believed 'if you don't ask, you don't get' – the worst that could happen is someone says no and you're no worse off.

Lesley

Business Management Unit Higher Officer

Top Insider Advice

Try different areas. Don't stick to one

Discussions with Lubna
What do you think is unique about working here?
in Career Tips·Monday, July 18, 2022
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3 responses
157 views
How can I work for HMRC with a CTA qualification?
Thursday, October 12, 2023
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3 responses
129 views
Can my offer be put on hold indefinitely after i have passed my pre employment checks?
in Application process·Friday, November 29, 2024
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2 responses
89 views