UQBA Sub-Executive
When thinking about a career in private business and tax advisory, many students envision a long, winding road filled with technical
challenges and late nights poring over tax law. But for Ben Napier,
a partner at Grant Thornton, the journey has been much more
about people, relationships, and consistent growth. As someone who joined Grant Thornton as a graduate in 2015 and now stands at
the helm of his team, Ben’s career path offers valuable insights and advice for university students looking to make their mark.
Bridging the Gap Between University and Work
Starting out as a graduate can be daunting. Ben recalls how overwhelming the transition from university to the professional world felt, but it was the collaborative environment at Grant Thornton that helped him bridge that gap. "There’s a lot that’s different between being a university student and a graduate,” he shared, reflecting on his early days. “The technical skills from university definitely set me up for success, but professional communication and teamwork were things I had to learn quickly.”
For students, Ben’s experience highlights the importance of not just focusing on technical proficiency but also cultivating soft skills.
Effective communication, relationship-building, and a willingness to ask questions early in your career can make a world of difference.
Milestones and the Path to Partner
In less than a decade, Ben advanced from graduate to partner—a feat that may seem extraordinary but is rooted in his dedication to client outcomes. "Achieving strong results for clients and taking ownership of key engagements has always been a priority for me," Ben explained. These client-centric results were the foundation of his success, enabling him to build trust and grow meaningful relationships over time.
What made the difference for Ben? It was his relentless focus on the bigger picture. “Rather than thinking as an individual, my role became
more about the collective team and client outcomes,” he said. As students navigate their own careers, understanding the shift from
self-focus to team-based work is crucial. The ability to step into a leadership role means knowing how to manage not just your own
performance, but also the success of the people around you.
Challenges and the Power of Collaboration
Like any professional, Ben faced challenges throughout his career. However, he credits his success to working in a team environment where
trust and collaboration were paramount. "It’s much easier to deal with challenges when you work with people you can rely on,” he noted.
Having a support system that shares diverse skills and perspectives allows for smoother problem-solving and can prevent feeling
overwhelmed. For students, Ben’s experience emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships with your colleagues. A supportive
network will not only help you overcome obstacles but also make the journey more enjoyable.
Mentorship and Learning from Clients
Mentorship has played a pivotal role in Ben’s journey, and he considers himself fortunate to have received consistent guidance from both colleagues and clients. "Some of my best mentors are my clients,” Ben shared. These relationships provided him with insights beyond technical knowledge, enriching his career development. “Clients are incredibly well accomplished, and building trusted relationships with them has helped shape my growth over the years.” For aspiring professionals, the lesson is clear: don’t just seek mentorship from within your organization. Look outward, to the people you work with, and allow those relationships to foster both professional and personal growth.
Advice for University Students
When asked what makes an intern or graduate stand out, Ben emphasized curiosity and ownership. "Taking ownership in client engagements and showing curiosity in your work is key,” he said. "Clients and your team should always be at the centre, and you’ll find success by working backwards from there."
Ben’s parting advice to his younger self—and to students—is simple but profound: "Your career is a marathon, not a sprint." It’s easy to think short-term, especially early on, but focusing on long-term goals and how today’s actions align with them will provide greater benefits in the future. He also stressed the importance of networking authentically, suggesting that students build relationships with people they genuinely enjoy interacting with, without expectations. "Those relationships often turn into something fundamental later on," he said.
The Bigger Picture: A Career Built on Relationships
For Ben Napier, the key takeaway from his journey is clear: success in business and tax advisory is not just about mastering the technical aspects but about building and maintaining relationships—both within your team and with clients. Whether it's navigating challenges with your colleagues or developing long-term client relationships, the ability to connect with others is crucial for career growth.
As students embark on their own career journeys, Ben’s experience serves as a reminder that while technical skills are important, the
ability to build trust, collaborate, and think long-term will define their success.
