At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead compliance for Scotland's new Air Departure Tax and engage with industry stakeholders.
- Company: Join Revenue Scotland, a diverse and high-performing tax authority.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and to work in a dynamic team.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on Scotland's tax system while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in tax compliance and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 37800 - 46200 £ per year.
Our Air Departure Tax (ADT) team in Revenue Scotland will deliver the compliance function for Scotland’s newest devolved tax. Air Departure Tax will become operational from April 2027 and this is your opportunity to join a new team that will build our relationships with industry and undertake a range of interventions to ensure compliance across the industry. We are a small team within Revenue Scotland with responsibility for the integrity of the new tax through a combination of risk-based compliance activities, and the development and implementation of changes to tax policy, processes and guidance. We work closely with other teams across Revenue Scotland and the Scottish Government policy team.
This role offers the opportunity to lead on complex compliance issues, engaging with airlines, aircraft operators and other industry representatives including carrying out site and systems inspections; develop risk profiles and analyse those risks; and use a range of formal powers and other influencing approaches to ensure the correct tax is paid.
You will be a senior tax specialist, handling complex enquiries and providing support, coaching and advice to Tax Specialists within the teams. This role requires a self-motivated individual with strong experience in tax compliance and excellent communication skills, with an ability to build working relationships with taxpayers and stakeholders. It is envisaged that the responsibilities of the role may be expanded in future to include other devolved taxes.
The role may require you to represent Revenue Scotland as a witness at tribunal.
Responsibilities
- Engage and work with taxpayers, industry representatives and broader stakeholders to ensure compliance with tax obligations.
- Lead on complex compliance issues and provide support and guidance to tax specialists in the team.
- Identify tax risks through risk assessment, data and systems analysis, site visits and compliance meetings.
- Provide accurate and timely technical advice and support to internal and external stakeholders.
- Development and implementation of changes to tax policy, processes and guidance.
- Pro-active identification and implementation of continuous improvement including streamlining operational processes.
- Contribute to the design and delivery of training modules.
- Lead, manage and coach teams and provide direction and motivation.
- Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to develop Revenue Scotland’s role as Scotland’s devolved tax authority.
A full driving licence is desirable. If not held already, we would expect the successful candidate to acquire (at their own cost) a full driving licence.
Qualifications
Success profiles are specific to each job and they include the mix of behaviours, experience and technical criteria (if applicable) that candidates will be assessed on.
Technical / Professional Skills:
- Management of Compliance and Risk – Practitioner level.
- The ability to minimise risks, by planning and managing the delivery of compliance objectives. Managing customer/stakeholder relationships to mitigate risks.
- The specific skills we require are shown below. The ability to ask difficult and uncomfortable questions both verbally and in writing, communicating in a well-structured, concise and compelling manner to reach effective resolution.
- Coach and support other tax professionals by sharing tax knowledge and expertise.
- Develop comprehensive action plans setting out operational procedures and clear strategic objectives.
- Conduct effective case conferences with appropriate parties on progress and future direction of case, taking decisive action when required to ensure timely delivery.
Experience:
You should be able to demonstrate the ability to interpret complex legislation and navigate tax disputes effectively, making informed decisions. Previous compliance experience is essential.
Behaviours:
- Making effective decisions - Level 3.
- Delivering at pace - Level 3.
- Working together - Level 3.
How to apply: Apply online, providing a CV and supporting statement (of no more than 1000 words) providing evidence of how you meet the behaviours, experience and technical skills listed in the Success Profile above. Both the CV and the supporting statement provided will be assessed against the criteria for the role.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools can be used to support your application but all statements and examples provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified (presenting the ideas and experiences of others, or generated by artificial intelligence, and presented as your own) applications will be withdrawn and internal candidates may be subject to disciplinary action.
If invited for further assessment, this will consist of an interview and assessment. Assessments are scheduled for w/c 28 September 2026 however, this may be subject to change.
Skilled Worker Sponsorship not being offered. Skilled Worker sponsorship is not available for this role. As a result, we are unable to appoint candidates who require Skilled Worker sponsorship now or in the future. Applicants must have an existing and ongoing right to work in the UK.
Revenue Scotland is Scotland's devolved tax authority and contributes to Scotland's public services through the taxes we collect. Revenue Scotland is a diverse, high performing organisation that has a reputation for delivering excellence and a commitment to continually improving the way we work while supporting the health, well-being, and development of our employees. Revenue Scotland is a great place to develop new skills, and you will be supported in your role with learning and development to enable you to perform at your best.
Our standard hours are 35 hours per week, we offer a range of flexible and hybrid working options. Our hybrid working principles require you to attend your assigned office, Victoria Quay, Edinburgh at least 2/3 days each month. Our hybrid approach supports a blend of home and workplace working, this should be agreed with the line manager to achieve the right balance between collaboration, in-person engagement and flexibility. You can also work from our Glasgow hub office if required.
Successful candidates must complete the Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS), before they can be appointed. BPSS is comprised of four main pre-employment checks – Identity, Right to work, Employment History and a Criminal Record check (unspent convictions).
We are committed to equality and inclusion, and we aim to recruit a diverse workforce that reflects the population of our nation. Find out more about our commitment to diversity and how we offer and support recruitment adjustments for anyone who needs them in our Revenue Scotland Candidate Guide.
Further information: Revenue Scotland is a Non-Ministerial Office which is a part of Scottish Government Main Bargaining unit and have adopted Scottish Government main terms and conditions and pay arrangements. Our staff are part of the UK Civil Service, working to deliver vital public services which improve the lives of the people of Scotland.
As part of any recruitment process, Scottish Government and associated public bodies collects and processes personal data relating to job applicants and applicants for public appointments. Personal information you provide in the recruitment process will be made available to Scottish Government and our additional data processors. We will hold a reserve list for 12 months.
For further information on this role, please contact Ryan.McColgan@revenue.scot.
The successful candidate will be expected to remain in post for a minimum of three years unless successful at gaining promotion to a higher Band or Grade.
Apply Before: 22/09/2026 (23:59pm) - This role is open to internal candidates, OGD and Common Citizenship organisations only.
Senior Tax Specialist in Edinburgh employer: Scottish Government
The Scottish Government is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees can make a meaningful impact on public services across Scotland. With a focus on employee well-being, the role of Cyber Investigations Manager provides a flexible hybrid working model, a strong pension scheme, and opportunities for professional growth within a highly skilled cyber team dedicated to enhancing national security. Located in Edinburgh, this position not only presents interesting technical challenges but also allows you to contribute directly to the safety and resilience of critical government information systems.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Tax Specialist in Edinburgh
✨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 Scottish Government, 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 Senior Tax Specialist in Edinburgh
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 Scottish Government'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 Scottish Government. 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 Scottish Government!
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Government
✨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 Scottish Government.
✨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 Scottish Government. It helps to show our commitment!
