Accountant specialising in Taxation
Shawn Galea is a fully qualified accountant specialising in taxation. After graduating from the University of Malta, Shawn began his career in the audit department of a Big 4 firm. While audit provided a strong technical foundation, he quickly realised that his true passion lay elsewhere. This led him to transition into taxation, joining a medium-sized corporate service provider where he dedicated himself to mastering tax legislation.
Over five years, Shawn played a crucial role in developing the firm’s tax advisory arm while also assisting in the management of the tax department. These years were instrumental in refining his skills in structuring tax solutions, handling compliance matters and advising businesses on tax-efficient strategies. Beyond the technical aspects, he also gained invaluable experience in navigating complex business challenges and building strong client relationships.
Shawn is currently embarking on the most exciting chapter of his career – establishing his own firm. With a strong focus on taxation, his goal is to create a firm built on integrity, expertise and meaningful partnerships with clients.
Shawn’s passion for accounting can be traced back to his upbringing. Coming from a family of entrepreneurs, he was exposed to the realities of business ownership from a young age. This early experience sparked his curiosity about how businesses operate, making accounting a natural choice when he began his studies.
Asked about his decision to specialise in taxation, Shawn says that his fascination with legislation played a significant role in shaping his career path. He has always been intrigued by understanding the rationale behind laws, their historical context and their practical application. Taxation offers a unique blend of legal interpretation, strategic planning and business impact – making it the perfect field for him. Shawn finds great fulfilment in tackling complex tax challenges, whether by helping businesses navigate their obligations efficiently or by structuring solutions that optimise financial outcomes. Beyond the technical complexities, Shawn also thrives on the strategic problem-solving aspect of taxation. Every client’s situation is different, demanding analytical thinking, creativity, and a strong grasp of both local and international tax frameworks. It is this intellectual challenge that fuels his passion for the field and keeps him engaged in the ever-changing landscape of taxation.
A career in accounting, according to Shawn, offers incredible versatility. It builds a strong foundation that unlocks diverse opportunities, not only within accounting but also in business leadership, consulting, education and even entrepreneurship. One of its greatest strengths is the universal value of financial literacy – understanding financial statements, cash flows, and tax implications is crucial across industries and at all levels of business. This deep insight into how businesses operate is why many accountants eventually transition into executive positions or even launch their own ventures.
Looking back, Shawn finds the current phase of his career to be the most rewarding. After leaving his corporate role earlier this year, he was overwhelmed by the support he received from business owners who sought his expertise. This reaffirmed his decision to start his own firm, giving him the opportunity to work with clients who align with his values. For him, the most fulfilling aspect of his journey has been the relationships he has built – based on trust, integrity and a shared vision for business success.
For anyone contemplating a career in accounting, Shawn advises exploring as many areas of the field as possible in the early stages. Accounting is vast, and gaining diverse experience allows professionals to discover their true interests. Once they’ve identified their niche, dedication and hard work become key, as success in this field is achieved through perseverance, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous growth!
