Navigating Tax Transformation: Insights from Vicky Bradford

From Traditional Tax to Transformation

In an ever-changing world where technology is pivotal in shaping the future, the intersection of tax and transformation has become increasingly significant. In a recent interview, Vicky Bradford, a partner in PwC's Tax Reporting and Strategy business, shares her journey into the world of tax transformation and technology. Her insights offer valuable perspectives for experienced professionals and aspiring graduates looking to dive into this evolving field. Vicky's journey began with a conventional tax background, working in mid-market corporate tax, compliance, and advisory in the mid-1990s. However, her trajectory shifted when she transitioned into a tax technology role with a global compliance focus. This crucial shift led her to take on roles in global compliance, sourcing strategy, and outsourcing before moving into industry. Vicky managed global corporate tax compliance and reporting for BT, spanning approximately 100 countries.

The Leap into Tax Transformation

About five years ago, Vicky returned to work from her second maternity leave, ready for a change. She took on an ERP implementation project covering a staggering 66 countries. This shift was monumental, introducing her to the intricate world of multi-tax and cross-border complexities. The three-year project allowed Vicky to gain profound insights into the businesses she supported.

Learning Curve

Transitioning from corporate tax compliance to tax transformation was a steep learning curve for Vicky. Despite the challenges, she found that her compliance and reporting experience was a valuable asset. Her expertise in understanding local compliance requirements and working with overseas networks proved crucial in balancing global systems and localisation.

The Thrill of Tax Transformation

What sets Vicky's role apart is its sheer variety. No two days are the same, and she relishes the unpredictability that comes with it. Her work spans across diverse industries, providing a holistic view of different organisations' tax transformation needs.

The Future of Tax Transformation

Vicky emphasises the importance of intellectual agility and curiosity when tackling complex problems for clients. As the tax transformation world demands an array of skill sets, diversity within the team becomes paramount. Drawing from various backgrounds, including traditional tax, industry, and technology, creates a synergy essential for successful transformation programs.  

Vicky Bradford, Partner, PwC Vicky is a Partner in PwC’s UK Tax Reporting and Strategy business, specialising in large-scale tax technology and transformation programmes focusing on Tax in ERP. She has extensive experience advising large multinationals on evolving their tax process and technology to better meet their tax calculation, compliance and reporting obligations across all taxes. Vicky advises large multinationals on all aspects of Tax in ERP, from blueprinting to deployment, training, testing, and post-go-live support. Before joining PwC, Vicky was at an FTSE 50 Telco, responsible for corporate tax compliance and reporting across 100+ countries.