From Warrant Officer to Tax Professional Compliance Caseworker

After 24 years serving in the Armed Forces Army (RIFLES) I was unsure as to exactly what direction I wanted to take. I had completed my APM PMQ Project Management Qualification but traction behind gaining meaningful employment was slow. I was made aware of the RISE programme through Maria Clayton, of the HMRC, who was excellent throughout and that’s where the story started. There are various similarities between the military and HMRC. 

The list is by no means exhaustive. 

The challenges that I am confronted with daily from learning new skills and Digital delivery sessions via the professional bodies direct to my remoted workspace (Due to COVID restrictions) The ability to chat and converse with my colleagues over teams all whilst following a structured training regime which compliments my work commitments. 

I left the Armed Forces as a Warrant Officer having completed 24 years’ service. I had a vast array of experience from managing personnel to teaching and life skills. These I found prepared me for the challenges ahead, not being afraid to speak to people engaging with managers and being an integral part of the team, an ethos that is employed in both environments. 

Since commencing employment with the Civil Service, I have grown both professionally and as a person. I have been exposed to a world that prior to this was unknown to myself. This coupled with the essential work that is being carried out which is enabling the UK government with the funding to sustain itself in these uncertain and often worrying times. A part of the job that I am proud of. 

Active listening, mutual respect for my colleagues and employing an empathic approach when required, all this whilst maintaining, the diligence to conduct training under relative autonomy and freedom. Engaging and collaborating with other teams. Good communication skills and the ability to think on your feet. 

Service leavers will find an element of similarity to Military life albeit a million miles from what they may have previously experienced. I have worked here now for a little over 3 Months and am still learning and growing daily, academically and on a personal level. I would highly recommend this as a career path to any aspiring service leaver.