Tracey Maynard

Name: Tracey Maynard

Current role: Manager

Department: Private Client Tax Services

University: Aston

Degree: Bsc (Hons) Accounting for Management

After completing my degree in 2002, I joined Smith & Williamson knowing I’d begin the role I applied for straight away and wouldn’t just go back to college to begin my technical training. It was a large firm within the industry, but only takes two or three graduates each year, so I knew I’d be treated as an individual rather than part of a graduate year. I got a structured graduate scheme for my first few years, which could be adapted in the direction I wanted to go, so I was always doing what I wanted.

In my first few years I concentrated on developing my technical knowledge and skills, and getting my ATT (Association of Tax Technicians) and CTA (Chartered Tax Adviser) qualifications. I often work closely with directors, which allows me to learn from their experience and gain a comprehensive insight into how they work. By involving myself in many projects and questioning the decisions made I am able to develop my technical skills.

When it comes to the work environment here, I couldn’t be happier. The personal tax department is really sociable and arranges events right through the year, from bowls in the park to boat trips on the Thames, ice-skating and the important 31 January party when tax returns are completed! It’s very relaxed here too, there’s no competition with fellow graduates and everyone from directors to administration staff are ready to help during your first years.