At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead VAT advisory services and manage a diverse client portfolio in London.
- Company: Join Saffery LLP, a top UK accountancy firm with a friendly culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid working policy, 25 days leave, and a contributory pension scheme.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to equality and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make an impact in VAT while developing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: ACA/CTA qualified with strong UK VAT skills and team management experience.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 84000 £ per year.
Based in our London VAT team, the successful candidate will be responsible for managing a diverse client portfolio, encompassing the delivery of tax advisory services as well as overseeing some VAT compliance. This is a challenging and interesting client facing role, which will include exposure to a range of both UK and international clients.
Responsibilities
- Business Development: Opportunity to lead the development of VAT work across the London office, focusing on our business advisory and not-for-profit clients. Working with the VAT senior team to ensure that the wider firm/London office is kept updated on technical VAT developments and opportunities for discussions with clients. Involvement in National Practice Groups for relevant sectors to develop specific VAT input and involvement in wider business development initiatives.
- Technical: Leading on complex VAT advice projects across corporate and not-for-profit clients. Review advisory work prepared by the London and wider national team. Oversee the London VAT team’s return compliance process, with potential for future improvements using technology.
- People: Serve as the line manager for the London VAT Manager group. Provide pastoral care for the wider London VAT team, coordinating with the London tax staff partner. Support the development of VAT team members across the national team including technical and non-technical training. Active involvement in management and development of VAT team nationally, reporting directly to the head of VAT.
The Team
The London VAT team consists of two Directors, two Managers, one Assistant Manager, and three Assistants and is part of a national VAT team which also includes a VAT partner, two directors and two senior managers based in our Edinburgh, Manchester and Bristol offices.
You
The role would suit an ACA/CTA qualified individual with experience in a Senior Management/Director level position. The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate the following:
- Strong UK VAT technical skills and familiarity with international VAT issues.
- Ability to analyse tax technical queries and provide robust advice and solutions.
- Project management skills, with the ability to plan and prioritise work and meet deadlines.
- Experience of managing a team, and helping to deliver a very high standard of professional work to a challenging and varied portfolio of clients.
- Responsibility for the delivery and quality of work.
- Excellent communication skills.
- A clear client focus with a commitment to building strong client relationships.
- Ability to work collaboratively in different teams.
- Coaching and mentoring skills to develop other team members.
- Ability to build closer relationships with other London service lines to increase VAT involvement in their clients.
- Experience working with partners/teams across London to ensure VAT is part of all BD initiatives/targeting etc.
- Ability to increase visibility of VAT within relevant practice groups.
Reward and Benefits
A 35 hour working week with a hybrid working policy with the flexibility to work from home for up to three days per week (our core hours are 10-4). Excellent benefits including; contributory pension scheme, 25 days annual leave, Life Assurance cover and great flexible benefits and family friendly policies. Eligibility for the firm’s Profit-Sharing Plan. Paid in December. Eligibility for the discretionary bonus scheme.
About Us
Saffery LLP is an adviser to individuals and businesses across a range of sectors, providing market-leading accountancy, audit, business advisory, tax and VAT services. Founded in 1855, we are the UK’s 15th largest accountancy firm. When you work with us at Saffery, you work with people who know your name, not just a job title. We’re a place shaped by friendly, intelligent people who are individually excellent and collectively exceptional. We’re committed to our clients, but also to our greatest asset – our people. As a proud member of Nexia, a leading, international network of independent accounting and consulting firms, we’ve got access to local insight on a global scale.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
Equality, diversity and inclusion is a top priority for us. With our ED&I strategy, Everyone Belongs, we are building on our positive work culture and implementing initiatives to improve diversity and strengthen our equitable culture of inclusion, led from the top. We hope you will apply to us, whatever your background, ethnicity, gender, age, sexuality, disability or neurodivergence, because individual differences equal collective strength. Built on values of excellence, integrity, enthusiasm and collegiality, Saffery is where Potential meets Personal.
VAT Director employer: Saffrey LLP
Saffery LLP is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee development and well-being. With a hybrid working policy, generous benefits including a contributory pension scheme and profit-sharing plan, and a commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, employees are empowered to thrive both personally and professionally in the vibrant city of London. Join a team where your contributions are valued, and you can make a meaningful impact on a diverse client portfolio while enjoying a balanced work-life environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land VAT Director
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential colleagues or mentors. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Show Off Your Expertise
When you get the chance to chat with someone from the company, make sure to highlight your VAT knowledge and experience. Share insights on recent developments or challenges in the field to demonstrate your passion and expertise.
✨Ace the Interview
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and thinking of examples that showcase your skills. Remember, it’s not just about answering questions; it’s about showing how you can add value to the team and the firm.
✨Follow Up
After any meeting or interview, send a quick thank-you note. It shows your appreciation and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to reiterate your interest in the role and the company!
We think you need these skills to ace VAT Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the VAT Director role. Highlight your strong UK VAT technical skills and any relevant international experience to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to showcase your project management skills and your ability to build strong client relationships. Let us know why you’re excited about joining our London VAT team.
Showcase Your Leadership Experience:As a VAT Director, you'll be managing a team. Be sure to include examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, and how you’ve supported their development. We love seeing coaching and mentoring skills!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Saffrey LLP
✨Know Your VAT Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your UK VAT technical skills and international VAT issues. Be prepared to discuss complex VAT advice projects you've led in the past, as well as how you've tackled challenging tax queries. This will show that you're not just familiar with the basics but can also handle the nitty-gritty.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a potential line manager for the London VAT Manager group, it's crucial to demonstrate your experience in managing teams. Share examples of how you've supported team development and provided pastoral care. Highlight any coaching or mentoring experiences that showcase your ability to uplift others.
✨Client Focus is Key
Saffery LLP values strong client relationships, so be ready to talk about how you've built and maintained these in your previous roles. Discuss specific instances where your clear communication and client-centric approach made a difference, especially in business advisory or not-for-profit contexts.
✨Be Ready for Collaboration
This role involves working closely with various teams across London, so highlight your collaborative experiences. Talk about how you've successfully partnered with other service lines to enhance VAT visibility and involvement in business development initiatives. Show that you can work well in a team environment and contribute to collective goals.
