What's your job about?
PwC Acceleration Center Manila provides assurance, accounting, tax, advisory and other business solutions support to other PwC member firms in the Asia Pacific, America and other European regions.
I was a fresh graduate when I applied for the United States (US) Tax Associate position. As a Tax Associate, I am part of a team that supports our PwC counterparts in delivering quality tax services to our clients. My role includes preparation of Partnership and Corporate Income Tax Returns, work papers and various forms in compliance with the US tax regulations. Starting out, being assigned to various tasks and engagements, I learned the concepts and technicalities of US Taxation and became proficient in navigating various tax software applications. Thereafter, I was assigned as the point of contact (POC) for some of my engagements, liaising with our team and the US PwC counterparts. As a POC, I ensure proper coordination and timely delivery of tasks.. Here at AC Manila, I learned to be accountable with my engagements and be proactive in raising my concerns to my team lead.
PwC AC Manila is committed to not only provide exceptional client experience but also invest in the professional development of its staff. The Center provided me with the opportunity to expand my knowledge of the tax technicalities and develop skill sets that are relevant to my current role.
What's your background?
I was born in Quezon City and grew up with the love of solving mathematical problems. Thus, I decided to pursue Accountancy and was offered a scholarship grant by Far Eastern University (FEU) - Manila. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration Major in Internal Auditing and Accountancy. Back then,I was an active member and appointed Vice President for Academic Affairs of FEU - Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants which organizes both academic and non-academic conventions, inter-scholastic and inter-regional competitions. Through the events I have managed and attended, I have come to know PwC as one of the “Big 4” largest professional services networks in the world.
Fascinated by PwC’s brand, I aspired to be part of this firm during my undergraduate days. Fast forward to today, I am happy to say that I am close to celebrating my first year in PwC AC Manila and I am thrilled to still discover the best of my competencies.
Could someone with a different background do your job?
Yes, it is possible for aspiring fresh graduates or experienced professionals with a background in finance or accounting. PwC AC Manila offers different ways to support its people such as extensive training, development programs, coaching, and supervision. Hence, even professionals with a finance background can also be Tax Associates.
What's the coolest thing about your job?
It’s cool that we can work remotely both with our local teams and global counterparts. PwC’s global network helped me learn more about foreign tax rules. As an associate, I felt that I am already being honed to lead through my POC role and assist team members in performing their responsibilities.
What are the limitations of your job?
As we provide services to our clients, we strictly comply with tax regulations concerning deadlines for relevant practices such as the filing of their tax returns. With this, we expect a high volume of work and a tight turnaround time for a certain period of the year. It is very critical that we meet this filing deadline; hence, overtime and weekend/holiday work may need to be rendered. Thankfully, PwC AC Manila has been extending support during this time through regular huddles and coaching sessions to discuss engagement updates and concerns. There are also designated individuals whom we can reach out to whenever problems arise.
The Center also provides incentives such as busy season treats and other rewards. Since we work on some Saturdays and holidays during July to October, we offset these working days with a longer Christmas break, which I appreciate. Despite the busy schedule, AC Manila gives importance to work-life alignment and conducts various People Engagement Activities so the staff can recharge, enjoy, and unwind.
3 pieces of advice for yourself when you were a student
Working with different kinds of people and difficult projects are inevitable in any aspect of our lives. Hence, you should:
These are important not just in work but also in life. These pieces of advice will help you create a harmonious relationship with the people around you.