Navigating Tax with Ceri Ulyatt: From Sports to Strategies
Ceri Ulyatt, the Global Head of Tax and Treasury for Computershare, shares her journey through the complex world of tax, infusing the experience with wisdom from her sports science background. As she prepares for another group external audit, reviewing tax risks and navigating regulatory changes, Ulyatt gives us insights into the dynamic role she plays in the organization. Tax Journal
Winning the Auditor’s Race
As June 30 approaches, Ceri Ulyatt is deep in the trenches of the annual accounting marathon. The challenge lies in preparing for the group’s external audit while managing performance appraisals and team development plans. Despite the bustling atmosphere, Ulyatt finds joy in reflecting on achievements and celebrating both individual and collective successes.
Revolving Taxation Labyrinths
When HMRC introduced a new VAT policy statement, businesses were thrown into uncertainty. Ceri advocates for a policy reform that includes a pre-consultation phase, allowing businesses to voice concerns before new guidelines are rolled out. Such proactive steps could enhance the precision of new policies and reduce stress on tax planners.
Crafting the Tax Function’s Symphony
Business partnering is at the heart of tax strategy alignment at Computershare. Ulyatt stresses the importance of having clear strategies aligned with business goals, bolstered by investing in training at every level. Through continuous learning, Ulyatt has cultivated a team capable of engaging with stakeholders and driving performance forward.
Learning on the Court and in the Office
Reflecting on her early career days, Ceri values the importance of building connections and seeking feedback. The constructive insights from trusted mentors have allowed her to refine her skills and strengths, useful both on and off the court.
Tackling Global Tax Compliance
The dawn of Pillar Two marks a shift towards heightened transparency in global tax compliance. For Ulyatt, this era brings challenges in resource allocation, pushing teams to re-prioritize resources away from other strategic initiatives to keep pace with new tax demands.
An Unexpected Path: From Courts to Corporate
Many might be surprised to know that Ceri Ulyatt holds a degree in Physical Education and Sports Science. Despite a career change due to injury, she finds parallels between sports leadership and her role in tax management. Balancing characters and strategies, whether on a netball court or within a corporate tax office, has seamlessly intertwined the two domains.
Revealing her journey from sports science to tax, Ceri Ulyatt embodies how unforeseeable change can lead to profound career satisfaction and success. Her journey inspires resilience and adaptability, cornerstones of both sports and finance.
