JOHN CONWAY

Cross-border support

“My week can be difficult to define because it changes constantly. I generate a lot of new business and deal with a wide range of clients, both domestic and international.

As Chair as one of our international networks, I work closely with firms across multiple jurisdictions. That role keeps me closely connected to developments across markets and naturally leads to overseas clients looking to establish a presence in Ireland or restructure here.

Alongside that, I advise high-net-worth individuals and international corporates on structuring and planning. It’s varied, fast-moving and very client-led, which is exactly how I like it.

Clients naturally engage in conversations that will help them save money to invest in business growth – that helps when building relationships.”

Experience builds credibility

“I’ve been advising in tax for 24 years and at this stage I’ve seen and worked to overcome the issues clients can face, from complex structuring to family tax matters and estate planning.

Clients can tell very quickly if you’re bluffing. There’s no room for that in tax. The first conversation sets the tone. If you demonstrate experience, clarity and honesty from the outset, trust follows naturally.

That credibility is what allows me to guide clients confidently, bring them along with me and add value from day one.”

Getting that  letter

“One of the biggest challenges in the current environment is the increase in Revenue audits and interventions across Ireland. It’s something that’s happening across the board.

When clients receive that initial letter, it creates immediate anxiety. There may be significant liabilities at stake and uncertainty around the outcome. My role is to stay calm, engage constructively with Revenue and work through the issue methodically.

I’ve helped clients resolve difficult audits and substantial exposures by engaging with Revenue early to reach the right outcome. In those moments, experience and composure matter. I’ve even been called a ‘lifesaver’ more than once after resolving situations that could have had serious consequences.”

Beyond the paperwork

“There’s a misconception that tax is boring or purely compliance-based. In reality, it’s one of the few areas that can immediately add value.

Well-structured planning can save clients substantial sums, reduce pressure on a business and create clarity around future decisions. That might be through international structuring, estate planning or identifying reliefs they hadn’t previously considered.

You can see the shift in the room when clients realise the impact of good advice. That’s why when tax is mentioned in a meeting, people sit up and listen, it has real financial consequences.”

Stronger together

“Being part of a wider organisation strengthens what we can offer, particularly for international and cross-border clients. International relationships are a strong source of collaboration and new work, and they allow us to stay closely connected to developments outside Ireland.

Access to broader expertise across jurisdictions means we can collaborate and provide joined-up advice for corporates operating across multiple territories.

At the end of the day, it’s about working collectively to achieve the best possible outcome for the client – and that’s exciting for us”.