Ten minutes with John Butler, FDC Area Manager

How did you get started in FDC as an Area Manager?

I applied for the position of Trainee Tax Consultant with FDC in 2001 having seen the ad posted in the Examiner. A neighbour of mine was working with FDC at the time and spoke highly of the company.

Why did you choose to work with FDC?

I was working with the Revenue Commissioners at the time. I was unsure of what career path to take, but I liked the idea of working with a smaller team and was impressed with the opportunity and support that FDC offered.

What are you working on at present?

In 2018 I moved from our Tax Department to our Tipperary town office. This was a new office for FDC involving the acquisition of several acquired practices. I deal with both the Income/Corporation Tax compliance and tax consultancy side of the business. With the Income Tax deadline just completed, I am now meeting and advising clients in relation to the upcoming Capital Gains Tax payment deadline.

The recent deferred changes in Budget 2025 to Capital Acquisitions Tax has caused a huge amount of concern for family farm transfers. Even though these amendments have been paused, it resulted in families relooking at their succession plans and expediting them in certain cases and this is currently generating significant consultancy work.

I also meet a lot of potential new clients after the tax filing deadline as people are reviewing their requirements. This may be a review of their business structure where not offered by existing advisor or a move to FDC who can offer all business services required as a “one stop shop.’ 

What is the best part of your job?

Meeting people — I really enjoy meeting my clients and potential new clients. FDC is very much a customer facing company and you are encouraged from day one to meet with clients face to face. This is crucial to building long-term relationships and trust with our client base.

What is a defining career moment or high point?

Qualifying as a Chartered Tax Adviser with the Irish Taxation Institute was a high point and a validation of the long hours of study over three years.

Where do you see FDC five years from now?

FDC has grown substantially since I joined and particularly in the last 10 years. In the next five years I expect this growth to be both organic and through continued acquisition. This will ensure we achieve a greater nationwide presence in areas not currently served.

What is the best piece of professional advice you have received?

If you make a mistake, admit it. We all make mistakes but if you admit it then the issue can be resolved, and you learn from those mistakes.

If you could go back in time and give yourself a piece of advice at the start of your career, what would that be?

Slow down and don’t be in such a rush — enjoy your training. These years are formative for your career, and you can take the time to decide what particular area of tax interests you.

What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about interviewing for this position?

Go for it! FDC is a great company to work for, which is evidenced by the number of people who remain with the company for years. Training as a tax consultant or accountant opens huge opportunities to anyone. It provides a great understanding of how business works, and the practical difficulties encountered, this gives you the skills to deal with these issues and deliver practical advice and solutions. Once qualified, the world is your oyster.

What would you say are the key skills and capabilities necessary to be good at what you do?

A strong technical knowledge of tax is important, but communication skills are vital to success in this role. We are trusted advisors for our clients who rely on us to give them our technical but also practical opinions on everything from their tax position, tax structure, expansion options to succession planning for the next generation. This requires being able to communicate effectively and translate these advises into practical solutions.

What is the best career lesson you have learned so far?

Continuous professional development is crucial. Tax is a fast-changing environment and it’s so important to stay up to date with legislative changes that impact the tax advice I give.

Which industry professionals should people be following on Twitter/ LinkedIn?

I have never used Twitter. For LinkedIn, I think it’s a great way of keeping in contact with your own professional network. I would advise anyone starting their career to build their connections as they are made throughout their career. This creates a valuable network that can be accessed when needed.

Is there a particular book or resource you would recommend to someone early in their career?

The Art of Possibility by Benjamin Zander & Rosamund Stine Zander. It encourages you to look at life in a new way, reframe any obstacles in your path and focus on the possibilities presented in any situation.

If interested in current vacancies in FDC, please see here.