A day in the life: Indirect Tax Manager Tanya Mac Dermott

As part of our A Day in the Life series, we’re shining a light on #ourpeople who make a real difference across our organisation every day. In this edition, we meet Tanya Mac Dermott, Indirect Tax Manager at PHX Ireland. From juggling busy mornings to problem‑solving across teams, Tanya shares what her role is really like, why flexibility matters, and how collaboration plays a big part in her day‑to‑day.

1. How would you summarise your role in the business?

I’m the Indirect Tax Manager, I support the business with VAT and other indirect tax matters, making sure we stay compliant.

2. Before coming to work, what does your morning look like?

It’s usually a bit of a juggle, getting the kids ready and out the door, and getting myself organised too! I work from home three days a week, so I like to start early and finish early, it's great to make use of the flexibility we have here.

3. When you arrive to work, how do you kickstart your day?

Whether I'm in the office or working from home, I start my day with a double shot of coffee and a to-do list! 

4. On your journey home, do you listen to podcasts, music or are you enjoying some peace and quiet? If so, which podcast/song?

My commute is only about 10 minutes, so it’s usually just whatever’s on the radio, but I do enjoy that little bit of downtime before heading into the evening routine!

5. What’s your favourite aspect of your job?

I love the variety. I really enjoy the problem-solving side of things and working with different teams across the business. I’m quite a people person, so getting to connect with others and understand how everything fits together is a big highlight for me.

6. What is one thing you wish you could have told your younger self before embarking on your chosen career path?

That it’s not what you think it’s going to be, and it’s definitely not boring! There’s so much more variety and opportunity than I ever expected.

7. Can you share one piece of advice for a new starter about to join the business?

Be curious, ask lots of questions, and don’t be afraid to speak up. It can feel like a lot at the start, so be patient with yourself while you find your feet.

8. Collaboration is key to what we do! What’s the most fun or rewarding team project you’ve been part of?

We’re currently in the middle of a big project and have just hit a really important milestone, which has been really rewarding. I’ve loved working with so many different teams, getting a real insight into how the business operates, and even engaging directly with customers, which isn’t something we get to do very often in tax!

13. What does being collaborative mean to you, and how do you live that value at work?

For me, collaboration is all about building relationships and being approachable. I try to bring a positive, open attitude to everything I do, whether that’s working through challenges with colleagues, sharing knowledge, or just being someone people feel comfortable reaching out to.