Young Practitioner Profile: Andrew Simpson

Name: Andrew Simpson
Employer: Grant Thornton
Position: Client Manager

Tell us about yourself.

I studied commerce and law at UQ, and have been at Grant Thornton since I graduated in mid-2009. I'm 27 and in a relationship with someone who also works in tax, funnily enough. I bought a townhouse in 2012, which is a short bus ride from work.

What does your current role involve?

Andrew Simpson

I work in the corporate tax team under two partners, together with regular work for two other tax partners from the private tax team. The majority of time is spent on tax compliance; however I am also involved in tax advisory work, tax due diligences, tax reviews and objections, and AAT appeals. I have a great a range of clients, but if there is a focus it would be the real estate and construction industry, and clients that have international dealings.

My typical day, if there is such a thing, may include reviewing work prepared by other team members, attending to work directly for the partners, and usually quite a few emails and phone calls with clients or in relation to client matters. I also meet with clients and travel to clients for meetings or reviews as required.

Are you involved with any Tax Institute committees or contribute in other ways?

 I recently joined the Queensland membership committee, which involves monthly meetings and providing occasional assistance to the Institute.

What are your career highlights?

Giving expert witness at the Administrative Appeals Tribunal last year, which included cross-examination by counsel for the respondent. I was really lucky to have the opportunity as a lot of people will never do this during their career. Promotions and being able to really help clients with significant challenges also stand out.

Why did you join The Tax Institute?

I have been a CTA since 2012. I joined as it is a great qualification, and The Tax Institute provide a lot of quality resources and training.

What advice can you give to graduates?

The learning curve for tax can be really steep, but if you apply yourself it should start to 'click' after a while, and you will be really grateful that you put in the hard work. Tax involves lifelong learning so enthusiasm for training and up-skilling goes a long way.

Always take the time to stop and analyse the work you have done or the email you have prepared before handing it over or sending it. You should be asking yourself whether you have considered everything, and whether you have appropriately attended to the task. Self-review is important, particularly at the early stage of your career.

What do you do to unwind?

I like going for a workout after work. I also enjoy just taking it easy, whether it be reading, watching movies and TV, trying something new in the kitchen, going out for breakfast or dinner etc.

What is your favourite holiday destination?

I don't have a favourite destination but I am just recently back from a trip to Rotorua, New Zealand, where I had a great time.

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