Why did you want to become a tax adviser?
I was always interested in mathematics and economics. I also like working with people and when I first came into contact with tax issues I realised that taxation is not just about numbers but that you have to work closely with individuals who have a range of problems, needs and demands. Furthermore, dealing with German tax matters is always a challenge: more than 60 percent of the world’s literature about tax is published in the German language.

Where are you based?

I am based in Duisburg near Duesseldorf. After working with several big tax firms I decided to go out on my own and set up my business in July 2004.

Why did you want to pursue international tax issues? 

It’s always interesting to learn about other cultures. As a tax adviser dealing with foreign clients you learn a lot about other cultures when people tell you in detail about their personal situation.

Have you worked outside Germany as well?

Yes, I worked for a while in Budapest. When I was assigned to Budapest I learned how difficult it is to be in a foreign country and the problems involved in communicating with authorities without speaking their language. I appreciated any kind of help during these days – and that’s what I also want to offer my clients.

What do you hope to achieve with the Expatica column?

First of all, I want to answer basic questions that readers have with regard to German taxes, social security and accounting. I would also like to give readers an understanding of German taxation and accounting principles as well as answering questions that are of general interest and that might not have been explained in an article or do not necessarily fit into an article. And finally I would like to try to confute those who argue that tax advisers are only expensive but don’t answer questions in a satisfying way.

Your work no doubt takes up a lot of your time, but what do you do after business hours? 

When I opened my business, we bought what then a tiny little dog, a golden retriever puppy called 'Frieda'. She needs a lot of action and attention and she takes up quite a bit of my non-working hours. She’s always with me in the office. Indeed, some clients may have wondered about a certain growling in the background when they call me.

Coming from the Ruhr district, I have also been a big supporter of my local football club, Borussia Dortmund, for a long time.  I try to see their matches as often as possible. I’m sure that after their current rough patch that will get better. And, although my handicap is terribly bad, I try from time to time to cram in a game of golf. I guess sport does take up quite bit of my free time, as I also have to support my wife and her favourite sport, water polo.

 Since this interview was pubished in 2005, Martin has also joined Experts4Expats.com, a team of specialists in international tax and labour law, intercultural trainers/coaches and personal consultants. 

Ask the expert

Ask Martin Brune your pressing tax questions via our Ask the expert section under the Tax category.