At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead VAT matters, prepare returns, and provide expert guidance across the AA Group.
- Company: Join the AA, a trusted UK brand offering diverse services to millions.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days leave, pension contributions, discounts, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Inclusive culture valuing diversity and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in finance while mentoring others and gaining leadership experience.
- Qualifications: Strong VAT knowledge, analytical skills, and relevant qualifications preferred.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 € per year.
Location: London – Hybrid – Three Days in Office (role split between London and Basingstoke offices)
Employment Type: Permanent
Hours: Monday-Friday
Summary
This is a fantastic opportunity to play a key role in delivering accurate and timely Indirect Tax returns across the AA Group. Working at the heart of Finance, you’ll gain exposure to a wide range of businesses while providing expert VAT and IPT guidance that helps shape commercial decisions. You’ll work closely with teams across Finance and the wider business to understand our products and ensure they are reported correctly for VAT purposes. No two days are the same, making this an engaging role with real variety and impact. Alongside your technical responsibilities, you’ll support and mentor the Tax Assistant helping to develop their knowledge and skills. You’ll also have the opportunity to step in for the Head of Tax and Payroll when required, giving you valuable leadership exposure and career development opportunities.
What will I be doing?
- Leading on all VAT matters across The AA Group, providing expert guidance and support to the wider business
- Preparing and reviewing quarterly VAT returns, ensuring accurate and compliant submissions
- Calculating reverse charges, annual adjustments and Capital Goods Scheme requirements
- Providing technical VAT expertise on new products, services and commercial initiatives
- Reviewing material contracts to ensure full VAT compliance and identify potential risks
- Supporting the business with variable recovery rates in partnership with Finance and Financial Systems teams
- Reconciling VAT balance sheets monthly, identifying opportunities for process improvements and efficiencies
- Managing HMRC VAT enquiries and maintaining strong compliance standards across the business
- Monitoring changes in VAT legislation and case law, keeping the business informed and compliant
- Supporting and mentoring colleagues across the wider Tax team, while deputising for the Head of Tax & Payroll when required
What do I need?
- Strong working knowledge of Group VAT return preparation using SAP/BW
- Experience carrying out analytical reviews of transactional data with a high level of accuracy
- Knowledge of Reverse Charge VAT, Capital Goods Scheme and balance sheet reconciliations
- Understanding of Partial Exemption and Insurance Premium Tax would be advantageous
- CTA qualified or part qualified, with ACCA, ACA or CIMA qualifications preferred
- ATT qualified if not Chartered
- Ability to prioritise workloads effectively with a practical and pragmatic approach
- Confidence in solving complex problems and identifying practical solutions
- Excellent organisational, communication and relationship-building skills
- Strong attention to detail with the ability to work accurately in a fast-paced environment
Additional information
We’re always looking to recognise and reward our employees for the work they do. As a valued member of The AA team, you’ll have access to a range of benefits including:
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays + holiday buying scheme
- Worksave pension scheme with up to 7% employer contribution
- Free AA breakdown membership from Day 1 plus 50% discount for family and friends
- Discounts on AA products including car and home insurance
- Employee discount scheme that gives you access to a car salary sacrifice scheme plus great discounts on healthcare, shopping, holidays and more
- Company funded life assurance
- Diverse learning and development opportunities to support you to progress in your career
- Dedicated Employee Assistance Programme and a 24/7 remote GP service for you and your family
We’re an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from everyone. The AA values diversity and the difference this brings to our culture and our customers. We actively seek people from diverse backgrounds to join us and become part of an inclusive company where you can be yourself, be empowered to be your best and feel like you truly belong.
As part of the onboarding process, we complete several pre-employment checks including work reference, credit and criminal record checks. We may close the vacancy sooner than the advertised date if we get a high volume of applications, please apply now if you are interested.
VAT Finance Manager employer: Automobile Association
The AA is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in London with hybrid flexibility that promotes a healthy work-life balance. Employees benefit from a comprehensive range of perks, including generous annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and diverse learning opportunities that foster career growth. With a strong commitment to inclusivity and employee well-being, The AA cultivates a supportive culture where every team member can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the organisation's mission.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land VAT Finance Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections on LinkedIn or attend industry events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their values and how they align with yours. This will help you stand out and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of the team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions and have your own questions ready. This shows you're engaged and gives you a chance to assess if the company is the right fit for you too!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and keep you top of mind as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace VAT Finance Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the VAT Finance Manager role. Highlight your relevant experience with VAT returns and any qualifications like CTA or ACCA that match what we're looking for.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've tackled VAT issues in the past and how you can contribute to our mission at The AA.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t forget to emphasise your analytical skills and attention to detail. We want to see how you’ve successfully managed complex VAT matters and improved processes in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Automobile Association
✨Know Your VAT Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your VAT knowledge before the interview. Understand the key concepts like reverse charge VAT and the Capital Goods Scheme, as well as how they apply to the AA's services. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're serious about the role.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Prepare to talk about your experience with analytical reviews of transactional data. Have specific examples ready that demonstrate your attention to detail and accuracy. This is crucial for the VAT Finance Manager position, so make it clear how you've successfully handled similar tasks in the past.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Compliance
The AA places a strong emphasis on compliance, so be prepared to discuss how you've managed HMRC VAT enquiries or ensured compliance in previous roles. Highlight any processes you've improved or efficiencies you've identified, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Potential
Since you'll be mentoring a Tax Assistant and stepping in for the Head of Tax when needed, it's important to convey your leadership skills. Share examples of how you've supported colleagues or led projects in the past, showcasing your ability to guide and develop others.
