Working in the UK as a tax advisor in the asset management industry for over 13 years, Priya Mukherjee had started her career in London straight after graduating from University. Priya joined a reputed London practice for 11 years where she advised clients that included small startups to large multinational corporates in the asset management industry, on UK tax matters. In 2020, she joined a startup professional services firm, Larkstoke Advisors as a partner ­ where she brings in over a decade of expertise in transfer pricing, tax investigations, reporting fund status, compliance and a variety of other tax issues, advising some of the largest asset managers in the market.

Recently, Women Entrepreneur Magazine India got an opportunity to get in touch with Priya Mukherjee, Partner at Larkstoke Advisors. In the interaction that followed, the dynamic and highly conscientious tax advisor shared her less-trodden journey of carving out a career in tax advisory services in the UK and a lot more.

Excerpts From The Recent Interaction: Take Us Through Your Early Educational Journey. What Were The Experiences That You Gained, And What Are Some Key Business Lessons That You Learned?

I am an alumnus of the Department of Economics, University of Warwick in the UK.  I came to the UK to complete my master's, prior to which I completed my bachelor's degree in economics from the University of Delhi. I have always had a keen interest in development economics and was lucky to have attended lectures by great economists like Amartya Sen during my university days. Also, coming from a family of artistes and musicians, I grew up in a culturally thriving environment with legends like Manna Dey, Anil Biswas, Salil Chowdhury visiting our home, the experience I got from just being around such greats and listening to their stories gave me invaluable lessons in life that I treasure to date.

Growing up in a country like India, I was exposed to the socio-economic divide in society very early on in life. This played a crucial role in enhancing my consciousness and shaping my thoughts in life. The basic lessons of kindness, honesty, hard work, and respect to all are some of the most important lessons I learned during my growing years that remain key to my business and leadership approach.

You Have Had An Expansive Career Spread Across Organizations And Roles. Tell Us About Some Of The Leadership Philosophies Or Mantras That You Have Followed Throughout The Years To Ensure Fruitful Business Outcomes And Growth?

To ensure fruitful business outcomes and growth, we need to continually grow as a person ourselves and recognize opportunities and challenges in the marketplace. Equally, we need to provide the best opportunity for those around us, our teams, and our organizations to grow to their maximum potential. To be a trusted advisor, it is essential to have a commitment towards providing quality service and an attitude to continually learn and develop our skills and knowledge. Finally, in a people industry, to be able to build rapport and strong business relationships, it is important to have clarity of thought and effective communication skills.

“I think an indomitable spirit and a never-give-up attitude ride us through hurdles and dictate our choices when faced with challenges”

Tell Us About Some Of The Obstacles That You Had To Overcome In Your Career?

I graduated during the time of the recession when it was becoming increasingly difficult to find a job. However, I was determined to find the right role for myself and never stopped or lost my optimism until I was successful. I think an indomitable spirit and a never-give-up attitude ride us through hurdles and dictate our choices when faced with challenges. Another potential challenge was when I returned from maternity leave the second time round and felt as though some opportunities may have eluded me. I took that in my stride and found the motivation to move on to my entrepreneurial venture. As a problem solver with a calm disposition, I see myself focusing on solutions and try to see the bigger picture, this really helps me overcome any obstacles and move on.

In Your Opinion, What Are Some Of The Most Significant Milestones That You Have Achieved Over The Years? What Has Been The Driving Force Behind Your Success As A Business Leader And Entrepreneur?

I suppose the very first milestone in my career was getting out of my comfort zone, travelling far from my home country away from family and friends, making a livelihood, and obtaining the CA and CTA qualifications in the UK. Needless to say, there was no substitute for hard work. There were a lot of sacrifices involved, but as with everything else, persistence was the key to success. Following that, getting promoted and progressing my career continually to the next level played an important role, particularly the time I was promoted after my return from maternity leave the first time. The reason I consider this a milestone is that it was a difficult time initially, purely due to the challenges of managing a full-time career, along with being a new parent and trying to give 110% on both fronts. Yet again, it was willful persistence, the joys of being a parent and the passion for my career that sailed me through that phase, along with the tremendous help and support of my family.

Finally, the decision to join Larkstoke has been one of the most crucial milestones of my career. Timing was critical when deciding to take the entrepreneurial plunge, with my prior industry experience playing an important role in building client relationships and being recognised as a  trusted advisor.

As A Successful Business Leader, What Would Your Advice Be To Young Women Aspiring To Become Business Leaders And Entrepreneurs In The Future?

I would advise them just to be themselves and follow their dreams. Be prepared to work hard, and do not be afraid to put yourself first and make an investment in yourself. It is crucial to consider the timing when deciding to become an entrepreneur and build strong relationships of trust and a good network of people. When the road ahead looks difficult, keep the faith, keep striving, and success will be yours!