From internship to client manager: growth opportunities

How did you start at VDN&P?
Already during my high school studies I did my first internship at VDN&P, then I worked here as a student during summer for 2 years. In my last year of higher education, I was able to join VDN&P again for my final internship. After graduating, I started working here permanently. So I have already completed a nice journey within VDN&P.

What does your job consist of? 
As a client manager, I am responsible for various client files. This means that I enter invoices, complete VAT returns, prepare year-end closings and everything else that comes with it. The job is similar to that of a file manager, but with the big difference that I manage my own client portfolio and have a lot of personal contact with my clients. I make sure that their bookkeeping is in order, request missing documents and follow up on ongoing matters. So in addition to administrative work, I also have a lot of direct client contact.

How did your start go? 
As a newly starting employee coming straight from school, all the days and projects were fairly challenging in the beginning. Everything was new for me but I could always count on the support and explanations of my colleagues; whether it was using the programs, preparing my first financial statements or corporate tax returns, ... . This way, with the necessary constructive feedback, I gradually took on new and more complex tasks independently. A nice progress in my range of tasks where I was able to set the pace myself.

What makes your work experience at VDN&P unique and special? 
The good atmosphere is very important to me and makes the job even more enjoyable. If you get stuck somewhere, there are always colleagues willing to help. During busy VAT periods, we don't just focus on our own files but also give a helping hand where necessary. 

When I started here, I could rely on a colleague who coached me, explained and helped where necessary. But even today, when I have a question, I know that my colleagues are always willing to support me and that I don't have to worry or be afraid to ask anything. Right now, I am mentoring myself an intern and it is very rewarding and great to pass on the knowledge I gained from colleagues to new people.

It’s nice to see how our advice is appreciated

Do you see yourself growing further?
Absolutely! I started as a file manager and have now progressed to a client manager. With the necessary guidance and support, I hope to take the step to client advisor, where I can get to know my clients even better and build a real connection with them. It’s gratifying to see how our advice is appreciated and how clients act on it. 

VDN&P offers many training opportunities, such as annual updates on personal and corporate tax, among other things. I also expressed my interest in attending tax school, which was positively received. We agreed that I can take some courses via the online learning platform Eleas during working hours. 

What would you say to someone considering working at VDN&P?
Don’t hesitate to take the leap! You’ll join a very warm team where you are well guided from the start for both personal and professional growth. You are definitely not just a number, and there is a lot of respect for a good work-life balance.