Neil Bhattacharya is our Head of Client Services at TMNZ.
Formerly the Client Services Manager, his new position reflects the Client Services Team’s responsibility of being the first point of contact for our clients and making sure NZ’s biggest tax pool is the best.
The goal for the team is to get clients what they need at the right time by being the best source of knowledge when it comes to provisional tax and tax pooling.
With a background in analytics, Neil brings scale and productivity to how we do things. The result is a faster, more efficient TMNZ for clients and taxpayers.
We sat down with Neil to talk tax pooling and his penchant for lightly seared salmon and lentils.
Q: What was your motivation for joining TMNZ?
A: TMNZ was and is a growing company. Combine that with being the industry leader and it felt like a great option to help me grow further.
Q: What was your first impression of TMNZ?
A: The people and the culture are most memorable. Going into TMNZ HQ for the first time I was asked by a number of people if I was being looked after while waiting for my interview. This theme of taking care was also present in how the team looked after customers. Account Managers and the Client Services Team would get to the bottom of every issue, regardless.
It gave a sense that TMNZ were customer-focused and batting for taxpayers.
Q: What is the focus for you and the new team?
A: Putting the customer first.
For us that means being as helpful as we can (it’s the new selling!). We’re committed to having the best understanding of provisional tax in New Zealand, so if you or your client needs help then we’re the best people to call.
Finally, knowing who our customers are and what their needs are is crucial. Working in collaboration with our Partnerships Team to deliver our training programme is immensely beneficial in helping us be more than just a phone-based call centre.
Q: What can TMNZ clients look forward to?
A: You can meet the people who you talk to on the phone or correspond with on email. Just sign up to one of our events, webinars or training modules.
Q: So, finally, what is your secret when it comes to salmon?
A: End-to-end execution.
Warm a large nonstick skillet with oil over medium-low heat. Season the fish with salt and pepper. Raise the heat to medium-high. Place the salmon, skin-side up in the pan. Cook until golden brown on 1 side, about 4 minutes. Turn the fish over with a spatula, and cook until it feels firm to the touch. Bingo.