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"1) Define your career path 2) Work life balance 3) Adaptability and Resilience 4) Always Continue learning 5) Smile often"

Career path

About Viola ..

Key experience
• VAT Policy - Currently working on Stakeholder engagement, Research and Analysis, Policy development and Implementation and Monitoring • Previously in a compliance role; Risk Management - Identifying and Mitigating tax risks of Businesses and Individuals promoting tax compliance
Joining the Civil Service as an Administrative Officer has provided me with numerous opportunities for growth. I have progressed through various grades, participated in training programs and seminars, engaged in job shadowing, and transitioned between roles. Recently, I moved from a Compliance role to a Policy position, and I am excited to have applied for a Level 4 Policy apprenticeship. I am eagerly anticipating the start date and the new paths this apprenticeship will open up for me. Policy is an exhilarating field for me right now, as it allows me to work on crucial decisions that impact our country.
Current position
VAT Policy - VAT reliefs, Financial Services and Insurance Premium Tax
My role involves; Collaborating with stakeholders in HMRC, Treasury, other Government Departments and Industry representatives on the development and implementation of policy, contributing to budget measures, consultations, and legislation. Supporting colleagues by providing technical and policy advice, drafting responses to Parliamentary Questions, Ministerial and official correspondence and Freedom of Information requests. The Policy Apprenticeship will enable me to gain skills in advising at a strategic level and gain a solid grasp of policy evaluation techniques to assess the effectiveness of current policies, and confidently engage in strategic policy changes with clear goals and evidence to support impactful decisions at the Senior Leadership level.
Main motivation
• Work environment - The positive culture and the work life balance • Personal growth - opportunity and the chance to continue learning • Autonomy - Independence and Flexibility • Career advancement, Achievement and Celebrating success
I am given numerous opportunities to continue learning, with various avenues available for exploration and growth at any time. I appreciate the ability to make decisions and have control over my work, along with the flexibility to manage my time and maintain a healthy work-life balance. I enjoy financial independence and benefit from the financial perks that come with the job, such as discounts, dental insurance, gym memberships, health coverage, and eye tests. I feel a strong sense of purpose and impact, contributing to meaningful work that positively affects our society and country.
Top advice
1) Define your career path 2) Work life balance 3) Adaptability and Resilience 4) Always Continue learning 5) Smile often
Identify your long term career aspirations, set specific goals and achievable goals to guide your progression Take advantage of training programmes, workshops, and seminars to enhance your skills and knowledge Take on new challenges - volunteer for projects or tasks outside your daily responsibilities Smile - build relationships with peers, leaders, mentors Prioritise your well-being, maintain a healthy work life balance, always set boundaries
Greatest achievement
One of my greatest achievements has been successfully transitioning from a Compliance role to a Policy position within the Civil Service. This move reflects my adaptability, dedication, and commitment to professional growth.
In my Compliance role, I ensured customers adherence to tax compliance paying the right tax at the right time and managed tax risk. These responsibilities honed my analytical skills and attention to detail. Driven by a passion for public policy, I sought opportunities to transition into a Policy role. I engaged in training, seminars, and job shadowing to gain a deeper understanding of policy development and implementation.

Discussions with Viola ..

I graduate in 2026 so does this mean I’m not eligible to apply for the tax specialist program?

Eligibility advice, Eligibility

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