Secondment Spotlight:
Insights from a TOA Tax Associate
Whitley Penn is proud to offer a unique benefit that allows our team members to travel and work abroad for a Secondment opportunity. This exciting program provides our team members in the Philippines a chance to visit our offices in the United States, thanks to our relationship with TOA Global.* It’s a fantastic way for our team to gain new skills and experience diverse work environments.
Agnes Lumapac, a TOA Tax Associate based in Cebu, spent approximately three months in our Fort Worth office. Read about her experiences and insights in the secondment spotlight below.
Whitley Penn is proud to offer a unique benefit that allows our team members to travel and work abroad for a secondment opportunity. This exciting program provides our team members in the Philippines a chance to visit our offices in the United States, thanks to our relationship with TOA Global.* It’s a fantastic way for our team to gain new skills and experience diverse work environments.
Agnes Lumapac, a TOA Tax Associate based in Cebu, spent approximately three months in our Fort Worth office. Read about her experiences and insights in the secondment spotlight below.
How does the work culture in the US differ from your home office?
I’ve had the incredible opportunity to work in both the Whitley Penn U.S. office and the TOA Global Philippine office, and it has been such an eye-opening journey. In the U.S., the work culture is faster-paced, and there’s more focus on individual work and results. People are direct in their communication, and you’re often empowered to make decisions independently. It’s also nice that there’s flexibility with work hours and even the option to work remotely when needed.
On the other hand, the Philippine office has a more collaborative vibe, with a deep respect for authority and teamwork. The communication style tends to be more indirect, and it is common to look to your leaders for guidance. Work hours are usually more fixed, especially with us working the night shift to sync with the US time zone. Each culture has its own distinct setting, and witnessing how work is done, and how people interact has been a fascinating contrast. Both have their perks, but the differences keep it all fresh and exciting.
What new skills or insights have you gained while working here?
One thing that’s really stood out to me since going to work in the office is how much easier it is to collaborate and learn from others simply by being in the same space. When I was remote [from the Philippines], I’d spend a lot of time figuring things out on my own or waiting for responses, but when I was there, I could easily approach a teammate, ask a quick question, and keep the momentum going. It’s such a game changer!
It has also helped me build more confidence in how I work. Being present has made it easier for me to pick up on little workflow tips from the team. I’ve learned a lot just by being in the environment.
The shift to the US office has been such a refreshing change. It’s not just about the work; it’s about the connection, the shared moments, and the constant learning. I’m truly excited for what lies ahead and how this experience will continue to shape my growth.
What hidden gems or favorite spots in the area would you recommend to newcomers?
I’ve only been in Fort Worth for three months, but I’ve already made some great memories with newfound friends. I’ve visited the Stockyards four times. It’s such a fun place to dive into cowboy history, catch the daily cattle drive, and enjoy some amazing BBQ near the area. I also enjoy spending time at Sundance Square, where I can browse the stores, get coffee, and occasionally see live music.
For something more peaceful, the Fort Worth Water Gardens is a relaxing escape, and the Zoo never disappoints with its exhibits.
And I can’t forget Buc-ee’s! It’s more than just a gas station, it’s a whole experience. From the endless snacks and quirky souvenirs to the cleanest restrooms you’ll ever find on the road, it’s definitely worth a stop (or two). An additional favorite is Bass Pro Shops. It’s a surprising little adventure that is anything but typical. I especially enjoyed playing the shooting range game, it was a great way to unwind and laugh outside work.
Another highlight was the Red Door Escape Room in Southlake. A bunch of us from work tackled one of the games together, and it was such a blast solving puzzles as a team. There was a lot of laughter, a little bit of chaos, and the kind of teamwork that creates enjoyable memories.
Despite my brief stay, I will always remember those times and the amazing individuals I got to know there. They’ve truly made Texas feel like home in such a short time.
How do you think this experience will impact your career moving forward?
Working in the U.S. for three months through the secondment program has been a great experience for my career. I’ve been able to broaden my perspective and experience a different work culture, which has truly helped me grow. I’ve learned a lot about different ways of working, how teams communicate, and the general approach to business in the U.S., and I know that knowledge will be valuable moving forward.
The time I spent there also helped me build more confidence in my work. I learned new ways to approach challenges and manage projects more effectively.
Overall, the experience has been a huge boost, both professionally and personally, and I’m excited to apply what I’ve learned to whatever comes next.
*TOA Global is a premier provider of global accounting staffing solutions, dedicated exclusively to the accounting industry. With over a decade of experience, TOA Global has empowered more than 1,190 international firms to expand on their own terms by integrating elite offshore accounting talent into their teams. Over 4,180 accountants and bookkeepers in the Philippines have found rewarding careers through TOA Global’s commitment to excellence.
How does the work culture in the US differ from your home office?
I’ve had the incredible opportunity to work in both the Whitley Penn U.S. office and the TOA Global Philippine office, and it has been such an eye-opening journey. In the U.S., the work culture is faster-paced, and there’s more focus on individual work and results. People are direct in their communication, and you’re often empowered to make decisions independently. It’s also nice that there’s flexibility with work hours and even the option to work remotely when needed.
On the other hand, the Philippine office has a more collaborative vibe, with a deep respect for authority and teamwork. The communication style tends to be more indirect, and it is common to look to your leaders for guidance. Work hours are usually more fixed, especially with us working the night shift to sync with the US time zone. Each culture has its own distinct setting, and witnessing how work is done, and how people interact has been a fascinating contrast. Both have their perks, but the differences keep it all fresh and exciting.
What new skills or insights have you gained while working here?
One thing that’s really stood out to me since going to work in the office is how much easier it is to collaborate and learn from others simply by being in the same space. When I was remote [from the Philippines], I’d spend a lot of time figuring things out on my own or waiting for responses, but when I was there, I could easily approach a teammate, ask a quick question, and keep the momentum going. It’s such a game changer!
It has also helped me build more confidence in how I work. Being present has made it easier for me to pick up on little workflow tips from the team. I’ve learned a lot just by being in the environment.
The shift to the US office has been such a refreshing change. It’s not just about the work; it’s about the connection, the shared moments, and the constant learning. I’m truly excited for what lies ahead and how this experience will continue to shape my growth.
What hidden gems or favorite spots in the area would you recommend to newcomers?
I’ve only been in Fort Worth for three months, but I’ve already made some great memories with newfound friends. I’ve visited the Stockyards four times. It’s such a fun place to dive into cowboy history, catch the daily cattle drive, and enjoy some amazing BBQ near the area. I also enjoy spending time at Sundance Square, where I can browse the stores, get coffee, and occasionally see live music.
For something more peaceful, the Fort Worth Water Gardens is a relaxing escape, and the Zoo never disappoints with its exhibits.
And I can’t forget Buc-ee’s! It’s more than just a gas station, it’s a whole experience. From the endless snacks and quirky souvenirs to the cleanest restrooms you’ll ever find on the road, it’s definitely worth a stop (or two). An additional favorite is Bass Pro Shops. It’s a surprising little adventure that is anything but typical. I especially enjoyed playing the shooting range game, it was a great way to unwind and laugh outside work.
Another highlight was the Red Door Escape Room in Southlake. A bunch of us from work tackled one of the games together, and it was such a blast solving puzzles as a team. There was a lot of laughter, a little bit of chaos, and the kind of teamwork that creates enjoyable memories.
Despite my brief stay, I will always remember those times and the amazing individuals I got to know there. They’ve truly made Texas feel like home in such a short time.
How do you think this experience will impact your career moving forward?
Working in the U.S. for three months through the secondment program has been a great experience for my career. I’ve been able to broaden my perspective and experience a different work culture, which has truly helped me grow. I’ve learned a lot about different ways of working, how teams communicate, and the general approach to business in the U.S., and I know that knowledge will be valuable moving forward.
The time I spent there also helped me build more confidence in my work. I learned new ways to approach challenges and manage projects more effectively.
Overall, the experience has been a huge boost, both professionally and personally, and I’m excited to apply what I’ve learned to whatever comes next.
*TOA Global is a premier provider of global accounting staffing solutions, dedicated exclusively to the accounting industry. With over a decade of experience, TOA Global has empowered more than 1,190 international firms to expand on their own terms by integrating elite offshore accounting talent into their teams. Over 4,180 accountants and bookkeepers in the Philippines have found rewarding careers through TOA Global’s commitment to excellence.