At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage VAT advisory services and support high-impact projects for diverse clients.
- Company: Leading UK accountancy firm with a global presence and expert services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, promotion opportunities, flexible working, and training access.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact in VAT consultancy.
- Qualifications: Experience in VAT advisory and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 51750 - 63250 £ per year.
Your new company
Our client is one of the leading accountancy firms in the UK, part of a global accounting network, with a presence in over 150 countries and access to more than 20,000 professionals worldwide, offering expert audit, tax, and advisory services across sectors including insurance, capital markets, fintech, property, and not-for-profit. The Tax Division is known for its technical excellence and personal approach, delivering VAT, Corporate Tax, Transfer Pricing, and Employment Tax services to a diverse and growingly complex client base on high-impact projects.
Your new role
As a VAT Manager, you’ll be a key member of our growing VAT team based in Leeds or Manchester. You’ll manage a portfolio of clients across a variety of sectors, including insurance, finance, crypto, and property, delivering high-quality VAT advisory services and supporting Directors and Partners on strategic projects.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Advising on VAT issues such as jurisdictional expansion, new income streams, and HMRC disputes
- Managing client relationships and converting queries into profitable advisory projects
- Reviewing complex VAT returns and written deliverables with minimal oversight
- Supporting tender proposals, due diligence, and specialist VAT input into audit work
- Training junior staff and managing direct reports
- Contributing to business development and identifying new opportunities
This is a hands-on, client-facing role with scope for progression and involvement in high-value consultancy work.
What you'll need to succeed
To thrive in this role, you’ll bring:
- Proven experience in VAT advisory work within practice
- Strong technical knowledge of UK VAT principles and case law
- Ability to explain complex VAT issues clearly to non-specialists
- Experience managing a client portfolio and delivering written advice
- Excellent attention to detail and analytical skills
- Strong communication skills and a proactive, problem-solving mindset
- Desire to mentor and develop junior team members
- ACA/CA/CTA or equivalent qualification (preferred but not essential)
You’ll be tenacious, thoughtful, and calm under pressure, with a genuine interest in helping clients resolve complex tax issues.
What you'll get in return
Join a firm that believes in meritocratic career progression and personal development, valuing expertise, innovation, and a unique perspective. You’ll benefit from:
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Opportunities for promotion within a growing VAT department
- Access to internal and external training and technical updates
- A collaborative and inclusive team culture
- Exposure to high-profile clients and complex advisory work
- Flexible working arrangements and a supportive environment
What you need to do now
If you're interested in this VAT Manager role in either Leeds or Manchester, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call Justin Hopkins on 0161 237 3388 to discuss it in more detail. If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.
VAT Manager in Leeds employer: Hays
Join a vibrant secondary school that prioritises excellence in education and fosters a supportive community for both students and staff. As the Head of Mathematics, you will benefit from a competitive salary, ongoing professional development opportunities, and a collaborative work culture that encourages innovation and growth. This role not only allows you to lead a dedicated team but also to make a significant impact on student achievement in a welcoming environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land VAT Manager in Leeds
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Hays. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace VAT Manager in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Hays.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Hays's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Hays.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Hays will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Hays employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.