Fernando Matesanz, Partner at Allyon and Head of the ETL GLOBAL VAT Group
Alongside his advisory work, he contributes to European VAT policy discussions through the European Commission’s VAT Expert Group, regularly speaks at international conferences and writes for professional publications. He also serves as President of the International VAT Association and holds senior positions within the Spanish Association of Tax Advisers.
What made you choose your profession?
Looking back, I can say that it was one of the best things that could have happened to me professionally.
What events in your professional life would you describe as milestones or turning points?
One of the most important turning points in my career was the opportunity to become involved in European VAT policy discussions and contribute to the future of VAT. I enjoy advising clients, but being able to help make VAT a better and more effective tax is something particularly meaningful to me. Knowing that my work can have an impact beyond individual clients is, without doubt, one of the most rewarding aspects of my professional life.
Which character trait has been most important in your professional life?
What is a defining strength of your firm today?
What role do you play within ETL GLOBAL, and how does your involvement in the network influence your work?
Having said that, I believe there is still considerable scope to make the group more active, and that is something we would like to work on.
What does good client service mean in practice in your firm and when working with colleagues from ETL GLOBAL?
In your experience, what is the most valuable aspect of being part of the ETL GLOBAL network?
For me, the most valuable aspect of being part of the ETL GLOBAL network is being able to draw on professional expertise across different countries to support my clients. When a client has a need in another country, I know I can rely on colleagues there who share my values, level of expertise and professional standards. That consistency means clients receive the same quality of service regardless of which country they are working in, and it allows me to offer them solutions beyond my own local market with full confidence.
Looking ahead, what matters most to you in the coming years, whether for your own work, your firm, or ETL GLOBAL where relevant?
Within ETL GLOBAL, one of my personal priorities is to give new momentum to the VAT Group, encouraging more activities and closer cooperation among colleagues.
What helps you to manage stress in your professional life?
Sport. I exercise every day after work.
What advice would you give to someone entering your profession?
I believe curiosity is essential, not just in our profession but in life in general. Question everything and try to understand how things work. In terms of skills, I think anyone who is not comfortable with technology will face a difficult future. And, of course, strong technical knowledge is fundamental, but I take that as a given. It is the foundation of our profession.
