An insight into life as one of our Tax Graduates with Ashley Dodd

What is your role at bet365?

My role at bet365 involves working across both the Corporate and International Tax teams. The responsibilities I have in this role can be quite varied, from supporting in the collation and analysis of financial information for the UK tax returns to assisting in advisory work for our growing presence in international markets.

Tax compliance is a huge part of the team’s role within bet365 and the world of tax can be very dynamic, with new regulations and challenges emerging regularly. Members of the tax team here are always very keen to get you involved in new projects, so there is a good balance of both compliance and advisory responsibilities and a constantly changing scope of work.

Is this your first role with bet365?

Starting my career after the pandemic presented a unique set of challenges not normal for most graduates, including a year without work or structured studying due to lockdowns. Re-entering work and studying after such a long time off and entering a new environment seemed daunting. However, the Tax Team and wider business have been nothing but amazing, doing everything possible to make me feel welcome, comfortable and equipped to succeed in my first professional role.

What training did/do you receive to support you with you role?

The formal qualifications you will study for as a Tax Graduate is the ATT and CTA which is fully funded and arranged by bet365 as part of the graduate programme. The support I’ve received during my studies so far has been great, everyone within the team has been through professional studying so not only have a wealth of technical knowledge to help me understand the content and the experience of how to get the most out of my studies, but also the challenges I will face juggling work and learning.

There has also been numerous opportunities for personal development within the business, with dedicated programmes that focus on my own goals and have helped me gain skills that will benefit me both personally and professionally.

What is the most challenging part about your role?

There are many aspects to the role that can be challenging at times, with the nature of tax compliance you are never too far away from a deadline, meaning you need to be organised and have the ability to manage and prioritise workloads. The consistent stream of new projects and markets brings with it puzzling questions and complex topics, it can be difficult at times to take these challenges on and getting used to being out of your comfort zone while you work towards a solution.

What is your biggest achievement so far at bet365?

My biggest achievement so far is of course passing my ATT Personal Tax exam in November. Working full time and studying in your own is challenging and although achievable requires a lot of effort. Having now passed the first exam this has given me the encouragement and belief to take into the next and get one step closer to becoming qualified.

What do you enjoy about your team?

My favourite part of working in the Tax Team is definitely the people. On a daily basis I get to work with and learn from colleagues some of whom have upwards of 35 years of experience, so it’s been very valuable having such knowledgeable people willing to mentor me through the role and industry. The team have always been keen to include me in important meetings and projects that involve first hand collaboration with some of the leading figures in the company, which has been an invaluable way to learn and grow.

Would you recommend bet365 – if so why?

Absolutely, bet365 have always done as much as possible to support my personal and professional growth. Their commitment to invest in their staff has always been clear in not only my experience, but also in other people I have spoken to around the business.

What tips would you give to somebody applying to bet365?

Be sure to prepare by researching about bet365 as a business, the gambling industry and how it relates to the world of tax. Don’t be put off applying just because you haven’t had any specific experience in the field of tax or finance. I studied Law at university but applied because I always had an interest in business and finance, so I took the leap and haven’t looked back since. Part of what makes the team work so well is that it is full of professionals from mixed backgrounds and disciplines.