Meet BHP Tax Assistant Farrell Brice. Farrell joined our training programme in Sheffield in 2022 and has now been working with us for the last 12 months while studying towards his ACA/CTA qualifications. Here, he answers our questions about life at BHP and outside work.
What attracted you to work for BHP?
I used to walk past it on my way in to university every day, so I looked it up and was impressed by the culture that was advertised in comparison to other firms. The interview day introduced me to some people who I got along well with, so it felt welcoming straight away.
What does your day-to-day role involve?
At the moment, my role mainly entails the preparation and submission of tax computations for local businesses around the Sheffield area. I also do the same for some larger businesses.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I love the variety in the job. No day is ever the same because every client is different.
How has BHP helped you in your career so far?
They have really helped me by providing a high standard of tuition for my exams and preparing me well. They have also set a good framework for what is expected of me at each level of my career.
Where did you grow up/go to school/university?
I grew up in Portugal before moving to Nottingham when I was 12 (little bit of a downgrade!). My mum used to own a British bar abroad and I went to a Portuguese school and sat the Portuguese equivalent of SATs in year 6. I then decided to go to University in Sheffield and have stayed here ever since!
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
When I was younger, I wanted to be an astrophysicist, because I used to think they just looked at stars all day. However, once I did Physics at A-Level, I was pretty much put off the idea!
What is the best meal you’ve ever eaten and why?
I was eating a burger at my local Wetherspoons (at the worst Wetherspoons in the East Midlands) when I got my final university results and found out I had done a lot better that I had expected. So I will always remember that as the happiest meal I’ve ever had!
If you could learn something new and money was no object, what would it be?
I’ve always wanted to learn to play chess to a high standard – and would love to try to compete in tournaments.
Where is the best place you have ever visited and why?
The best place I have been to is definitely Florida. While we were there, we went to Disneyworld and Universal Studios – both of which were incredible. And I loved the food when I was 10!
Where is your dream destination?
My dream holiday would be to Bali in a really expensive resort or hotel. The black sand beaches look amazing.
What is the one place on earth that you would want to visit and why?
I would like to go and see Machu Picchu in Peru at some point. It’s an amazing place and the views from what I have seen look incredible!