At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead VAT compliance for a major consumer goods company and drive process improvements.
- Company: Join a global leader in consumer goods with a dynamic work culture.
- Benefits: Competitive day rate, hybrid working model, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative team atmosphere with a focus on innovation and digital transformation.
- Why this job: Make an impact on VAT compliance while enhancing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Professional VAT qualification or relevant experience in complex VAT roles.
The predicted salary is between 25200 - 30800 £ per year.
We are partnering with a global, market-leading consumer goods enterprise in their search for a UK&I VAT Lead.
This is a 12-month temporary role based in Slough, offering a hybrid working model (2 days per week in the office) and a day rate of up to £280 per day via PAYE for the right candidate.
The Role
Supporting the UK&I VAT Manager, you will play a key part in delivering end-to-end VAT compliance across approximately 15 UK and Irish trading entities.
You will take responsibility for day-to-day execution, oversight of compliance processes, and driving continuous improvement across VAT controls, systems, and digital automation.
Key Responsibilities
- VAT Compliance & Operations: Lead the preparation, review, submission, and settlement of net VAT returns (c. £300m), ensuring ledger accuracy and documentation meet statutory requirements.
- Business Partnering & Advisory: Act as a key point of contact for VAT queries across the business, tax authorities, customers, and suppliers, while delivering VAT training to internal stakeholders.
- Risk Management & Controls: Monitor VAT accounting to ensure compliance with Senior Accounting Officer (SAO) requirements, perform regular control reviews, and support internal/external audits.
- Process Improvement & Digitalisation: Drive digital efficiencies, process automation, and system transformations across VAT reporting and controls.
- Cross-Tax & Project
Support: Assist with compliance and governance for broader tax areas (e. g., Plastic Packaging Tax across 4 legal entities, IR35) and support ad-hoc business initiatives.
- Team Leadership: Provide day-to-day support and guidance to VAT specialists, deputising for the VAT Manager when required.
This role could be right for you if you have
- Qualifications: ACA, ACCA, CTA, or equivalent professional qualification, or demonstrable relevant experience in VAT reporting/broader VAT roles (typically 4-6+ years).
- Technical Experience: Essential experience in UK VAT compliance across complex business units and multi-ERP system environments.
- Control Frameworks: Strong understanding of Tax Risk Management, Internal Controls Frameworks, and SAO compliance.
- Systems & Automation: Strong tech-savvy mindset with a track record of driving process improvement and automation in reporting.
- Soft Skills: Excellent interpersonal, communication, and influencing skills to train associates and build networks across cross-functional teams.
Randstad Financial & Professional encourage applications from individuals of all ages & backgrounds.
Appointment will be made on merit alone but candidates must be able to demonstrate their ability to work in the UK.
Randstad Financial & Professional acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment & an employment business for temporary recruitment as defined by the Conduct of Employment Agencies & Employment Business Regulations 2003
VAT Lead in Slough employer: Jobiqo
Bromley Council is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees can thrive. With a strong commitment to professional development, flexible working arrangements, and a generous benefits package, including a local government pension scheme and unique discounts, the Council prioritises employee well-being and career growth. Located in the vibrant Bromley Civic Centre, you will be part of a team that plays a crucial role in shaping the future of the borough while enjoying the balance of urban and suburban life.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land VAT Lead in Slough
✨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 Jobiqo. 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 Lead in Slough
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 Jobiqo.
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 Jobiqo'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 Jobiqo
✨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 Jobiqo.
✨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 Jobiqo 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 Jobiqo 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.
