Tax advisor, trilinguist, continual learner.  

“I joined KPMG because I thought it was highly international. But after working with clients located across the world, I know it is.

When I started in the KPMG Indirect Tax Compliance Center (ITTC) in Budapest, it was a brand new team. Acting as a single point of contact for the entire continent, the ITTC focuses on International Value Added Tax (VAT) for all of Europe.

I joined KPMG in Hungary almost immediately after graduation, and I was at the ITTC since its inception. This has given me a front-row seat to its incredible progression. The ITTC started out preparing just a few returns per year, but now that number is closer to 27,000. We’ve grown from a small group to a team of over 100 people. It’s been amazing to help build something from the ground up, especially right out of school. My experience at the ITTC really shaped the direction of my career.

I had the opportunity to go on an international assignment to New York, starting in September 2013. At the beginning it was only supposed to be a one-year secondment in the US, which was extended with another year. As I was getting more and more involved in the work of the US VAT team, I realized that I had a lot of opportunities in this position and I felt like it was a good fit for me. I was happy to learn a few months ago that I could transfer to the US firm as a permanent hire. I am really looking forward to continue to work with my team in New York and in other US KPMG offices. A big part of my job in the US team is being familiar with tax laws not only in Europe, but across the world, as our VAT team is dealing with global indirect tax issues. It’s challenging, but I have support.

I’ve always had an interest in language – I speak English, Hungarian and French – and I get to use those skills every day. I consider myself lucky. It feels like this role was made for me. On top of that, I get to work with people who are just as enthusiastic as I am. There’s a real camaraderie, one that extends beyond the office. It’s a nice feeling to connect with the people you work with, and I’ve made some genuine friends here. I can’t imagine finding the same blend of professional and personal satisfaction anywhere else.

Before I joined, I expected KPMG to be a large, rigid organization. I couldn’t have been more wrong. One of the things I love about KPMG is the openness of the people who work here. I’m never afraid to ask for help, no matter what the issue. On my first day, a senior manager sent me an email with instructions for a project. I was surprised – and pleased – to read the last line: ‘If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to me or anyone. Welcome to the team!’

I’m part of an organization that’s committed to my progress. Even apart from regular evaluations, my managers and mentors encourage me to reach out when I need coaching or advice. I am constantly tackling new challenges and learning something new. The world of tax is constantly changing, but I’m confident that KPMG will change with it – and I will, too.”