Meet the campaign stars – Millen Olak

Can you tell us a bit about your current role and what it involves?

I currently work in transaction tax, where I support in the preparation of tax due diligence and tax structuring reports. Due diligence is a process where we investigate any tax risk areas to make informed decisions relating to a company being bought or sold. Tax structuring involves planning the most tax efficient structure for the transaction. I particularly enjoy the way the tax environment constantly evolves, which makes this an exciting, ever-changing area to work in, where each day presents new challenges.

What’s a typical day like for you?

No two days are the same in transaction tax and a typical week can involve critically analysing information, having calls with our clients, preparing client reports and tax returns. Every day can present new circumstances, making adaptability a crucial skill to have.

What inspired you to pursue the ACA qualification?

Current affairs and business have been some of my interests for several years. The ACA is a world-renowned qualification, which provided me with an opportunity to develop good grounding in accountancy and develop my understanding of global affairs, which was very appealing. Additionally, the ICAEW supports those who wish to undertake an apprenticeship pathway, which was encouraging as it allowed me to pursue my interests through a prestigious qualification as a school leaver rather than as a graduate.

How has studying to become an ICAEW Chartered Accountant impacted your career?

Studying to become an ICAEW Chartered Accountant has been very significant to my career. It has provided me with a greater appreciation of accounting concepts, which are fundamental to my everyday work. Furthermore, I have had the opportunity to participate in several initiatives as an ICAEW Student, including the local student societies, ICAEW marketing initiatives and the ICAEW Student Council (where I have been elected as Vice Chair this year), all providing me with opportunities to widen my network and strengthen my advocacy skills.

Which aspect of the refreshed ACA qualification do you find most impactful?

For me the Specialised Learning courses are the most exciting part of the updated ACA, particularly given the ability to tailor the qualification to the students’ needs and interests, providing a taste into life as a member of ICAEW and completing CPD.

What advice would you give someone just starting their ACA qualification?

In relation to studying towards the exams, I would say that preparation is key. I found that reading through the notes provided by my tutors and practicing as many questions as I was able to from the question bank and past papers was very helpful in preparing for the exams. I also think it’s important to try different study styles to determine what works best for you – I feel that I determined this within the first few exams which set me in good stead as I progressed through the qualification.

But I think it’s also important to recognise that your experience as an ICAEW Student can be so much greater than just studying towards the qualification. Opportunities such as attending local student society events, getting involved with the local student society committees and ICAEW Student Council can be very rewarding, allowing you to build strong networks and make lasting change to the experiences of current and future ICAEW Students. I would recommend saying ‘yes’ to all opportunities which present themselves to you, seek out opportunities in areas which interest you and make the most of what being an ICAEW Student has to offer!

What skills do you think are essential for future ICAEW Chartered Accountants?

As AI becomes more deeply engrained into our lives, I think it is important that future ICAEW Chartered Accountants are able to adapt to similar new technologies, and implement them into their work, allowing them to be more efficient. I think critical analysis skills and communication skills will be vital in facilitating this shift with new technologies – AI will help to analyse large amounts of information however, it is our ability to analyse the impact for our clients and their stakeholders, and the way in which we communicate the important information which will be crucial.

How do you balance studying, work and your personal life?

It’s important to recognise that it can be difficult to strike a balance between studying, working and continuing your hobbies, particularly where you’re approaching a busy period or are in the final stretch before an exam. It was a learning curve for me to find time in a busy week to relax, however, essential to remain productive. I found it helpful to timetable my week, making sure to build in focussed time for studying as well as allocating some time for me to do something I enjoy.

What has been the most rewarding moment in your professional journey so far?

Being elected as the Vice Chair of the ICAEW Student Council for this year has definitely been one of the most rewarding moments of my journey so far. I particularly enjoy meeting and collaborating with Student Representatives across the UK and across the world, who are equally passionate about making a positive change to ICAEW Students’ experiences and being able to represent students at the highest level of the ICAEW is an honour.

Who has had the biggest influence on your life so far, and why?

The person who has had the biggest influence on my life so far is Diljit Dosanjh, who is a renowned Indian singer and actor. Diljit has achieved remarkable milestones, such as being the first Punjabi artist to perform at Coachella and attending the Met Gala, all while staying true to his Punjabi roots. He has been a trailblazer in blending traditional Punjabi music with contemporary styles, including his collaborations with Ed Sheeran and Sia. His journey inspires me to embrace my identity and pursue my passions fearlessly.

As the ICAEW Student Council Vice Chair and through my work with the ICAEW Leeds Student Society, I strive to foster a sense of community and support for fellow students, much like Diljit has done for his fans. His happy, can-do attitude has motivated me to take a similar approach as I have navigated my apprenticeship and studying towards the ICAEW ACA qualification. Diljit’s success encourages me to push boundaries and remain true to myself in my professional journey.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

Besides work and volunteering with both my local ICAEW student society and the ICAEW Student Council, I enjoy singing, going on long hikes, particularly in the Yorkshire Dales and reading both period novels and business-related / historical books.;