Inspiring Change: Ms. Veronique Herminie, The ATAF Women in Tax Network Chairperson

Step into the world of Ms. Veronique Herminie, a remarkable figure at the forefront of taxation and leadership. As the Chairperson of the ATAF Women in Tax Network, Ms. Herminie’s journey is one of inspiration and innovation. From her beginnings as a Certified Chartered Accountant to her current pivotal role, she has demonstrated unwavering dedication and relentless determination. In this exclusive interview, Ms. Herminie invites us to delve into her wealth of experience, offering profound insights and sharing her aspirations for empowering women in the dynamic field of taxation. 

Can you share with us your journey and experience in the field of taxation, and how did you become involved with ATAF and the Women In Tax Network?

In 1996, I began my journey towards becoming a Certified Chartered Accountant with ACCA, which included tax-related subjects sparking my interest in taxation. In June 2000, I joined the Ministry of Finance Taxation Division, progressing from a Principal Tax Officer to Director for Business Tax. In August 2006, I transitioned to a government position as Principal Secretary for Investment and Industries but still engaged with Tax matters as an observer on the international tax treaty negotiations, and in 2012 I joined the Tax Revenue Tribunal as the Chairperson. In May 2019, I was appointed the Commissioner General of the Seychelles Revenue Commission (SRC). In late 2020, I participated in discussions regarding the launch of the ATAF Women in Tax Network and became one of its founding board members in March 2021. I resigned from SRC in January 2023 and established VHS Business Consultancy, providing business and tax advice. I remained on the board as a founding member representing the private sector and was elected Chairperson in November 2023.

What inspired you to take on the role of Chairperson for the ATAF Women In Tax Network, and what goals or initiatives do you hope to achieve during your tenure?

Having been involved in its creation, I was inspired to take on the role of Chairperson for the ATAF Women In Tax Network due to its potential to positively impact the professional lives of women in Africa interested in taxation and leadership. I aim to encourage active participation of African women in socio-economic development and Tax Administrations through empowerment programs, support, and mentorship. By raising awareness and providing guidance, we can help women set career development goals, aspire to higher positions, and achieve professional fulfilment. 

How do you balance your responsibilities as Chairperson of the Women In Tax Network with your other professional commitments, and what motivates you to continue championing this cause?

I balance my role as Chairperson of the Women In Tax Network with my other professional commitments by viewing each responsibility as an opportunity for

continuous learning. Despite holding various positions, such as CEO of Taylor Smith Naval Services Limited group of companies and Independent Non-Executive Director at ABSA Bank Seychelles Limited, I prioritize sharing my experiences and knowledge with others. I am passionate about mentorship and believe in fostering a culture of learning and growth within my teams. My motivation to champion this cause stems from the support I have received throughout my career, especially from mentors who generously shared their knowledge and guided me. I am committed to paying it forward by inspiring and uplifting other women, which is why I actively participate in AWITN’s mentorship program as a mentor. As a wife and mother of two young professionals, I feel that those of us who can provide guidance should do our utmost to encourage and support the younger generation to be their best no matter life’s challenges.

How do you perceive the current landscape for women in the field of taxation, and what are some of the challenges and opportunities you see for women professionals in this sector?

The current landscape for women in the field of taxation presents both challenges and opportunities. Women bring valuable qualities such as collaboration, inclusivity, and empathy, which can enhance taxpayer relationships and improve compliance. However, balancing professional responsibilities with personal roles as wives, mothers, and earners can be demanding and impact work-life balance. Diversity, including gender diversity, is crucial for tax administrations to develop comprehensive strategies and innovative solutions. Yet, biases and prejudices persist in this male-dominated field, requiring women to be resilient and well-prepared for their roles. Mentorship programs and continuous training can help women navigate these challenges and excel in the tax profession.

As Chairperson, what strategies or initiatives do you implement to promote diversity, inclusivity, and empowerment within the tax profession, particularly for women?

As Chairperson, I intend in close collaboration with the other members of the Board and the Secretariat to implement strategies to promote diversity, inclusivity, and empowerment within the tax profession, particularly for women. In my experience, coming from a Tax Administration where women constitute the majority of the workforce and hold key leadership positions, I recognize the importance of gender-neutral recruitment and education policies. To further support diversity and inclusivity, I advocate for training opportunities offered by organizations like ATAF, with a focus on enhancing women’s skills for leadership roles. Additionally, I encourage initiatives such as short-term secondments between tax administrations or departments and internal mentorship programs to foster professional growth and development for women. Furthermore, we should continue to celebrate and highlight women leaders in tax administration through our website, social media platforms, and LinkedIn, showcasing their achievements and contributions to inspire others.