We’re thrilled to celebrate our General Counsel, Karen Eckstein, who has achieved a remarkable double recognition: being named Risk Professional of the Year and receiving the Chartered Institute of Taxation (CIOT) award for Outstanding Contribution to the Tax Profession.
This combination of honours is truly unique; we don’t believe that anyone else has ever been recognised in both areas simultaneously, if at all, and it highlights Karen’s exceptional expertise in championing practical risk management, ethical standards, and professional development across the profession.
At BHP, we’re incredibly proud to have Karen on our team. Her knowledge, dedication and passion for helping others to thrive continue to make a real difference to our people, our clients and the wider profession.
We caught up with Karen to find out more about her incredible achievements, what drives her passion for risk and tax, and the impact she hopes to continue making across the profession.
Congratulations on such an incredible double recognition! How did it feel to receive both awards?
I was completely overwhelmed! Much of my work happens behind the scenes; people don’t like to openly admit that they have had a problem, so, whether within BHP or outside, they are unlikely to admit that I have helped them resolve it. To be publicly recognised for that and to receive awards that reflect the duality of my work was truly moving and gratifying.
What has driven your passion for helping to raise standards and support others in the profession?
Managing risk is my passion; it’s why I do what I do. My mission is to prevent the pain that claims can cause to firms, their staff, and their clients, and to help firms build happier, healthier, and more profitable relationships with their clients. I absolutely love the culture at BHP, and I’m excited by our growth. However, with growth naturally comes risk, which drives me to support the firm and our people, so that they can have flourishing, successful careers and the firm’s business can continue to grow and succeed.
Your work often focuses on risk management and ethical standards. Why do you think these areas are so important for tax and professional services firms today?
We’re operating in an increasingly regulated environment, as well as an increasingly litigious one. These challenges can derail the great work in an instant. Everything I do is about helping people avoid the mistakes that can damage the firm and ensuring I protect both our people and our clients.
What have been some of the most rewarding aspects of your involvement with the professional bodies over the years?
Being Chair of the Professional Standards Committee, contributing to the draft engagement letters and guidance that supports the profession, leading the Leeds Branch of the CIOT, and being involved in drafting the PCRT have all been highlights. It’s been incredibly rewarding to know I’ve made a difference – improving standards and helping members in a meaningful way.
Finally, what advice would you offer to colleagues who are early in their careers and seeking to contribute more broadly to the profession?
Get involved with your professional body! Join a committee, and you’ll learn so much, gain insight into what’s happening in the wider profession, develop contacts and a network that will help you in your career, and bring that knowledge back into the firm. It’s a brilliant way to enhance your career, broaden your understanding and make a real impact.
Karen’s recognition from both the CIOT and the Women in Insurance is a testament to her rare blend of expertise in both tax and risk. Her dedication to raising standards and supporting others continues to make a lasting impact, both at BHP and across the wider profession.
Congratulations, Karen, what an achievement!
