J.D.
Senior Manager
Grant Thornton Taiyo ASG Tax Corporation
Grant Thornton Japan is a dynamic work place and part of a strong global network. Whether you are recent graduate or a professional in mid-career, we encourage you to consider us.
Starting Date May,2008
Which section do you belong to and what does your work involve?
I work in the international tax group. Our group assists non-Japanese nationals with Japan tax issues and international tax planning. We provide tax advice and compliance assistance to corporations engaging in cross-border activities, whether it be setting up a branch office or a subsidiary in Japan, participating in a merger or acquisition, licensing IP, or undergoing a business restructuring involving more than one jurisdiction. Increasingly we also deal with Transfer Pricing issues - analyzing the intra-group transactions of corporate group and providing analyses and documentation to support their pricing to Japan’s national tax authority.
What is your role as a manager?
The manager’s role here at Grant Thornton involves managing foreign client engagements and client expectations; advising clients on tax compliance and planning; drafting and reviewing memorandums and business proposals; assisting staff with professional development; writing articles for internal and external publications; and identifying new business opportunities.
What is the most important aspect of your work?
Helping our clients achieve their goals and get real value from our services is always most important. This involves working closely with the client and the other team members. And because more than one country is often involved, it means working closely with other Grant Thornton member firms around the world.
Why did you choose Grant Thornton?
The projects you are able to get involved with here at Grant Thornton are more varied compared to larger firms. There are opportunities to take on more responsibility at an earlier stage in your career. There are also extensive opportunities to participate in internal training and international training events offered through the Grant Thornton network. All these factors make the environment at Grant Thornton more stimulating than that at most other companies.
What is the office culture like at Grant Thornton?
People here are friendly and respect one another. Before joining I had heard that the atmosphere is a cooperative one and I found that to be true. People really go out of their way here to help each other.
Which part of working at Grant Thornton do you enjoy most?
When multiple jurisdictions are involved, tax issues can become complex. Assisting clients with these issues is challenging but very rewarding. It’s always enjoyable after working together with colleagues and counterparts around the globe to see all the pieces of a complex project come together.
Do you have any other comments for applicants?
When conducting a job search its easy to get caught up in short term thinking. I think it’s important to remember your long term goals and choose a company that will help you achieve them by providing the experience and work environment that fit your goals not just for the moment, but over the next 3, 5, or 10 years.