Profile: Andrew Snowdon, Kidsons Impey
International tax work is on the up. Dealing with new issues springing from an increasingly global market, Andrew Snowdon becomes head of Kidsons Impey’s rapidly expanding international tax group.
Based in Essex, Snowdon won’t be forsaking his home territory. He aims to build on the already established reputation of his group locally while developing the ‘vast concept’ of tax overseas.
Having gained the ATII qualification, Snowdon admits he ‘stumbled into’ his training contract with Price Waterhouse before moving to Kidsons in 1989 – becoming a partner in 1995.
The ever-changing technical complexities of the tax world make minimising clients’ exposure a constant challenge.
‘Often the tax tail wags the commercial dog,’ says Snowdon. ‘In response to increased international trade, cross-border transactions, forthcoming European monetary union and emerging markets in areas such as the old Soviet bloc and China, we will be meeting the demand for a more personalised, hands-on international tax service.’ Snowdon will also be overseeing his group’s marketing activities. He plans to issue a series of guides this year which will cover a variety of subjects, from buying property outside the UK which raises the question of residential or non-residential tax status, through to anti-avoidance rules for income and corporation tax. He views his marketing capabilities as a strength but finds it ‘difficult to put this to the forefront’ with his client load.
‘In the long term we are looking to successfully service high net worth individuals and growing family trading companies. The family-owned companies’ market is one of significance,’ he explains. ‘This is very much a people business. I am fortunate enough to be left to run a “free ship” at Kidsons and my relationships with my clients are crucial. Above all, I want them to feel I am value for money.’