At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide strategic VAT and customs advice across a complex international organisation.
- Company: Join a dynamic multinational company with a focus on innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Engage in diverse projects and gain valuable cross-functional exposure.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on business decisions and drive change in a global context.
- Qualifications: Strong experience in European VAT and customs, with a commercial mindset.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
We are seeking a European & Global VAT and Customs Strategic Advice - Tax Manager to provide high‑quality, commercially focused VAT and customs advice across a complex international organisation. The role has a strong European focus with broader global exposure and works closely with Finance, Legal, Supply Chain, and business teams. This is a hands‑on advisory and business‑partnering role, supporting decision‑making, business change, and effective VAT and customs governance across the Labs and R&DS businesses, with further support to the Commercial Solutions business where similar operating, delivery, or contracting models apply.
Key Responsibilities
- VAT & Customs Advisory: Advise on European VAT matters with global reach, including cross‑border supplies, goods movements, reorganisations, and operating model changes across Labs and R&DS. Provide practical customs input on valuation, classification, and import/export structuring across international supply chains. Support the development and application of consistent, defensible VAT and customs positions across jurisdictions.
- Business & Commercial Support: Provide proactive, commercially focused VAT advice to Finance, Legal, and business teams to support growth and operational decision‑making. Support sponsor and customer discussions where VAT treatment impacts pricing, margins, VAT recoverability, or execution. Advise on VAT implications of new services, contracting models, and commercial approaches, including support to the Commercial Solutions business.
- Governance & Risk: Maintain oversight of VAT compliance, reporting, and audit activity across multiple jurisdictions, working with local teams and advisors as appropriate. Identify recurring VAT and customs risks arising from business models, supply chains, and operating structures. Ensure VAT positions are appropriately documented, consistent, and technically robust.
- Change & Development: Support VAT and customs assessments for acquisitions, integrations, and post‑deal operating models, particularly for global Labs and R&DS activities. Monitor VAT and customs legislative developments and translate them into clear, practical business guidance. Contribute VAT and customs input into process improvements, systems changes, and ERP initiatives where relevant.
What We’re Looking For:
- Strong experience in European VAT, with exposure to global VAT and customs matters.
- Experience advising on cross‑border services, goods flows, and supply chains.
- A pragmatic, commercial approach to applying indirect tax rules in a business environment.
- Experience in a multinational organisation and/or a professional services firm (Big 4 or similar).
- Ability to work confidently with Finance, Legal, and operational stakeholders.
Why This Role?
- Broader international and cross‑functional exposure beyond pure compliance.
- Meaningful involvement in business change, growth initiatives, and projects.
- A balanced scope spanning VAT, customs, governance, and advisory, while remaining clearly aligned to a Tax Manager level remit.
European / Global VAT & Customs Strategic Advice - Tax Manager in Livingston employer: IQVIA
As a leading player in the international tax advisory space, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic work culture that encourages collaboration and innovation. Our employees benefit from extensive growth opportunities, including hands-on involvement in strategic business initiatives and cross-functional projects, all while being supported by a team of experienced professionals. Located in a vibrant city, we offer a unique blend of professional development and a supportive environment that values work-life balance, making us an exceptional employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land European / Global VAT & Customs Strategic Advice - Tax Manager in Livingston
✨Join Tax Networks
Get involved in tax-focused networks or associations, like the Chartered Institute of Taxation. These communities often host events and workshops which can help you make connections with industry professionals, plus they might even have job boards exclusive to members.
✨Attend Industry Events
Keep an eye out for tax-related conferences and seminars. Events like these are not only great for learning but also for meeting potential employers face-to-face. Use these opportunities to ask questions and express your interest; it’s all about putting a face to the name!
✨Leverage Social Media
Follow leading tax advisory firms, such as IQVIA, on social media. Engage with their posts – comment, share insights, or even ask questions. This can help you get noticed and show your enthusiasm for the industry before you even apply!
✨Showcase Your Knowledge
Consider writing articles or blogs on tax trends and issues. Sharing your expertise on platforms like LinkedIn can boost your visibility and establish you as someone who is serious about a career in tax advisory. Plus, it gives you something to discuss when you land that interview!
We think you need these skills to ace European / Global VAT & Customs Strategic Advice - Tax Manager in Livingston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Tax Knowledge:Make sure your CV highlights any relevant tax qualifications, certifications, or coursework you've completed. We want to see that you understand tax laws, regulations, and compliance issues—so detail your academic background or any practical experience in tax advisory to catch IQVIA's eye!
Quantify Your Achievements:In the tax consultancy field, showing measurable outcomes from your previous work can set you apart. Use your CV to include specific examples of how your advice helped clients save money or avoid penalties. Numbers speak volumes in our industry and can really highlight your impact.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to express why you're passionate about tax consultancy and why you're excited about working at IQVIA. Share any personal experiences or insights that fuel your interest in the tax advisory field—let your enthusiasm shine through!
Keep It Professional but Approachable:While your written application should maintain a professional tone, don’t be afraid to let a bit of your personality show. Tax advisory is about building relationships, so if you can convey your approachable nature in your writing, that's a bonus when applying for this full-time role at IQVIA!
How to prepare for a job interview at IQVIA
✨Know Your Tax Fundamentals
Brush up on the core principles of tax law, especially recent updates that might affect clients. During the interview, we could face scenario-based questions where we'll need to apply these principles to solve problems, so get comfy with hypothetical situations!
✨Show Your Analytical Skills
Tax advisory isn't just about knowing the rules; it’s about interpreting them. Make sure to prepare examples from your previous studies or experiences where you successfully analysed complex data. We want to demonstrate how we can bring those analytical skills to the table for IQVIA.
✨Understand the Consulting Aspect
Since this is a full-time role, the interview might involve discussing how we communicate tax strategies to clients. Think about times we've interacted with clients or presented technical information in a digestible way. This shows we’re not just tax boffins but can also connect with people!
✨Your Long-Term Vision
As we're aiming for a full-time position, it's important to convey our enthusiasm and long-term interest in tax advisory. Be prepared to chat about why we’re passionate about this field and how we see ourselves growing within IQVIA. It helps to show our commitment!
