CLA Global: Secondment Experience

Over the last decade, HLB HAMT has emerged as a foremost business adviser in the region, continually evolving and adapting to the latest technology to provide real-time solutions to our vast range of clients. 

HLB HAMT is dedicated to delivering high-quality audit and advisory services. We have continuously been pushing the bar of excellence ever since our inception in 1999 and have successfully scaled new heights. 

My main roles and responsibilities include the day-to-day team management of the business outsourcing services team in Bristol, UK.

My client responsibilities include the management of all financial compliance deadlines for UK entities, including sales tax, financial, and corporation tax compliance deadlines. I also liaise with clients for advisory purposes to assist them in meeting their financial goals.

As we further develop the CLA Global network, we realise that we share a common goal throughout the network of truly knowing our clients and supporting them to meet their financial goals.

The global secondment programme will benefit all firms involved as we further integrate and align member firms throughout the globe.

Additionally, for my main firm, the skills I will develop while working abroad will enable me to build my skill set and gain experiences I may not have been able to achieve in my home country. For example, I will gain sector exposure in markets that would not have been open to me in the UK, such as governmental organisations and the non-profit space.

For my own development, undertaking business in a different country will enable me to learn different business norms, such as how team members interact, communicate, share, and collaborate, and enable both firms to identify and facilitate standard practices and processes.

I am most looking forward to learning; each day is an opportunity to grow, develop and learn from an outstanding group of individuals across the CLA family.

My role will see me working within the global advisory team to support clients with their expansion into the US. This will involve supporting clients with the time-consuming and complex tasks associated with establishing and running their business in the US.

There are similarities between the two roles, which include client management and deadline skills to support clients in meeting their regulatory requirements.

Additionally, the communications skills I have acquired throughout my training at Evelyn Partners will be equally important as I support clients from across the globe through our global advisory team.

I am looking forward to experiencing the complete client journey at CLA, from initial conversation to onboarding through to assisting our clients with their needs in the United States. It will also be beneficial to add the US’ Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) experience to my skillset as it will enable me to support my clients globally in the future.

On a personal level, I am looking forward to making new friends and experiencing a different culture, along with the huge variety of entertainment options throughout New York. I started my accountancy journey with Evelyn Partners in my home city via the higher apprenticeship route, so living away from my city is a new experience for me.

I will be provided with regular support and training throughout the length of my secondment. This includes technical training provided by the host firm on local accountancy laws and regulations, alongside regular updates from the home firm. Other secondees across the CLA Global network will regularly keep in touch with cohorts to share experiences and support each other globally.

I hope that undertaking a long-term secondment will provide me with a widened network pool and knowledge, which will enable me to support my clients with their business needs, regardless of their location.

I am excited to further develop my financial reporting skills and have an understanding of US taxes and the complexities around operating in the US.

Who knows where a ‘go for it’ might take you.

The information contained herein is general in nature and is not intended, and should not be construed, as legal, accounting, investment, or tax advice or opinion provided by CLA Global Limited (CLA Global) to the reader. For more information, visit CLAglobal.com/disclaimer.