headhunter(ka) Podcast

In this episode, I sit down with someone I’ll be honest about: I knew a little going in — and left knowing a lot more.Adam Alonso is a Barcelona-trained, fully qualified lawyer admitted to the Bar Association of Barcelona. He specialises in European VAT, Insurance Premium Tax, and the highly niche world of Spain’s Consorcio de Compensación de Seguros — operating at the intersection of public law, insurance regulation, and indirect tax.In other words, Adam works where the map runs out.What we talked about:From Spain to the UK — and everything in between• Growing up between two countries, cultures, and ideas of “normal”• Training as a lawyer in Barcelona• A career built by saying “yes”Adam’s journey spans:• Big Four advisory• In-house at a major gaming group• Compliance and consultancy• Building and leading a global VAT research team from scratch at a tax tech scale-upWe talk honestly about whether any of this was planned — or whether curiosity and interesting problems did most of the steering.“Lost in Translation”Borrowing the phrase from the film, we explore:• What gets lost (and gained) when careers span languages, legal systems, tax regimes, and continents• Why translation isn’t just linguistic — it’s cultural, professional, and personalBuilding teams from scratch• What “from scratch” really looks like• Mistakes, surprises, and the parts nobody puts in the job descriptionMultiple vantage points on taxHaving seen tax from almost every angle — law firm, Big Four, in-house, tech — Adam shares:• Which environment surprised him most• What each perspective teaches that the others can’tOptional deep dives• One mindset shift businesses need around indirect tax• Advice for tax professionals moving into tech-forward rolesIce-breakers & the human sideBecause tax people are still… people:• A past life as a semi-professional table tennis player• A love of Star Wars• Favourite philosophical and funny quotes — impressions includedSerious sport, unexpected lessonsWe dig into:• What it takes to compete at semi-professional level• The mindset, training, and sacrifice involved• Why table tennis is far more brutal than people expectGolf: the second act• Does the competitive instinct carry over?• Handicap goals, bucket-list courses, and why golf is a different challenge entirelyFinal reflectionA Jedi philosophy.A precision sport.A game that humbles everyone eventually.Tax is all three.Learn the rules. Practice the moves.And stop dreading the rally.And then… a table tennis demonstration.Topspin. Very clean. You’re welcome.

Get ready to ignite your inspiration! In this episode, Nikie van Duurling shares her bold transition from trading Dutch winters for desert heat, her journey through tax law, technology, and leadership in the Middle East. Her story is about breaking norms, embracing change, and boldly forging new paths — qualities every professional needs today.Main insights:·         How a background in tax law and an unintentional passion for technology led Nikie into the world of tax tech.·         The pivotal moments that shifted her from traditional tax roles to innovative projects like robotic process automation and generative AI.·         Her personal experience navigating relocation, cultural integration, and female leadership in the Middle East.·         The importance of resilience, adaptability, and cultural openness in thriving abroad.·         Practical advice for women considering international leadership roles, emphasising the power of exposure and authenticity.

What does it take to build a 17-year career at the intersection of tax, technology, and strategy — while also showing up fully at home?In this episode, I'm joined by Jacek Szufan, Tax and Tax Technology Director, and one of those rare professionals who can hold the detail of international tax law in one hand and a boardroom conversation in the other.We talk about the moment that changed everything in his career. The decision to move to the UK in 2006 with a suitcase, ambition, and imperfect English. The trend in indirect tax technology that he believes will reshape the industry. And what nobody talks about enough — what becoming a father really does to a man who leads for a living.This is a conversation about ambition and presence. Strategy and simplicity. And what it means to get on the door — even when the water is freezing.

headhunter(ka) Podcast explores the people behind the profession. Through structured, insightful conversations, we share the personal journeys, career experiences, and perspectives of tax professionals who are shaping the industry.Drawing on my career in headhunting, this podcast features conversations with professionals I’ve had the privilege of working with—offering thoughtful insights, practical lessons, and an authentic look at life within the tax world.

In this episode of the Headhunter(ka) podcast, host Izabela interviews Meike Le Roux, a versatile professional with a background in finance, indirect tax, and tax technology. They discuss Meike's career journey, the impact of technology on tax compliance, her bilingualism, personal interests, and memorable travel experiences. Meike shares valuable insights on parenting, her passion for Elvis Presley, and offers advice for newcomers in the tax profession and her younger self.TakeawaysMeike's career began in finance as an accounts assistant.She transitioned into tax consulting and technology due to her interest in simplifying processes.Bilingualism enhances her professional communication and translation skills.Parenthood has taught her the importance of trust and being a role model.Traveling with her daughter along the Pacific Coast Highway was a memorable experience.Meike has a passion for classic cars and vintage items.Elvis Presley’s music has had a profound impact on her life.Curiosity is essential for new tax professionals to understand their field.Preparation for new roles involves listening and understanding the business.Advice to her younger self includes being brave and treating herself.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Micah's Versatile Career02:58 The Evolution of Tax Technology05:51 Personal Life and Hobbies08:56 Travel Adventures and Family12:12 Passion for Elvis Presley15:06 Preparing for New Roles17:46 Advice for New Tax Professionals20:07 Reflections and Closing Thoughts Remember to like and follow on your favourite platform so you never miss an episode!Something to share? Email [email protected]

In this episode of headhunter(ka) Podcast, Teodora Vallone shares her journey from candidate to accomplished tax professional. The conversation covers her international career moves, leadership approach, and insights for aspiring tax professionals—along with reflections on La Dolce Vita and the role of resilience in shaping both career and life.Teodora’s journey shows resilience and adaptability.Trust is everything in the tax profession.Life experiences shape growth and relationships.Mentorship and leadership matter.Don’t let career progression overshadow hands-on experience.‘La Dolce Vita’ is a mindset, not just a lifestyle.Moving abroad can open new opportunities.Networking and relationships drive career success.Good food and company make life richer.00:00 – Introduction & Teodora’s Background05:19 – Relocating to Australia: New Opportunities09:12 – Career Growth Across Different Jurisdictions18:10 – Advice for Aspiring Tax Professionals21:44 – La Dolce Vita: Embracing a Mindset for Happiness27:05 – Future Goals & Closing ReflectionsRemember to like and follow on your favourite platform so you never miss an episode!Something to share? Email [email protected]