At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead VAT matters, prepare returns, and provide expert guidance across the AA Group.
- Company: Join the AA, a trusted UK brand offering diverse services to millions.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days leave, pension contributions, discounts, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Inclusive culture valuing diversity and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in finance while mentoring others and gaining leadership experience.
- Qualifications: Strong VAT knowledge, analytical skills, and relevant qualifications preferred.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 € per year.
Location: London – Hybrid – Three Days in Office (Please note, this role is split between the London and Basingstoke offices)
Employment Type: Permanent
Hours: Monday-Friday
This is a fantastic opportunity to play a key role in delivering accurate and timely Indirect Tax returns across the AA Group. Working at the heart of Finance, you’ll gain exposure to a wide range of businesses while providing expert VAT and IPT guidance that helps shape commercial decisions. You’ll work closely with teams across Finance and the wider business to understand our products and ensure they are reported correctly for VAT purposes. No two days are the same, making this an engaging role with real variety and impact. Alongside your technical responsibilities, you’ll support and mentor the Tax Assistant helping to develop their knowledge and skills. You’ll also have the opportunity to step in for the Head of Tax and Payroll when required, giving you valuable leadership exposure and career development opportunities.
What will I be doing?
- Leading on all VAT matters across The AA Group, providing expert guidance and support to the wider business
- Preparing and reviewing quarterly VAT returns, ensuring accurate and compliant submissions
- Calculating reverse charges, annual adjustments and Capital Goods Scheme requirements
- Providing technical VAT expertise on new products, services and commercial initiatives
- Reviewing material contracts to ensure full VAT compliance and identify potential risks
- Supporting the business with variable recovery rates in partnership with Finance and Financial Systems teams
- Reconciling VAT balance sheets monthly, identifying opportunities for process improvements and efficiencies
- Managing HMRC VAT enquiries and maintaining strong compliance standards across the business
- Monitoring changes in VAT legislation and case law, keeping the business informed and compliant
- Supporting and mentoring colleagues across the wider Tax team, while deputising for the Head of Tax & Payroll when required
What do I need?
- Strong working knowledge of Group VAT return preparation using SAP/BW
- Experience carrying out analytical reviews of transactional data with a high level of accuracy
- Knowledge of Reverse Charge VAT, Capital Goods Scheme and balance sheet reconciliations
- Understanding of Partial Exemption and Insurance Premium Tax would be advantageous
- CTA qualified or part qualified, with ACCA, ACA or CIMA qualifications preferred
- ATT qualified if not Chartered
- Ability to prioritise workloads effectively with a practical and pragmatic approach
- Confidence in solving complex problems and identifying practical solutions
- Excellent organisational, communication and relationship-building skills
Benefits
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays + holiday buying scheme
- Worksave pension scheme with up to 7% employer contribution
- Free AA breakdown membership from Day 1 plus 50% discount for family and friends
- Discounts on AA products including car and home insurance
- Employee discount scheme that gives you access to a car salary sacrifice scheme plus great discounts on healthcare, shopping, holidays and more
- Company funded life assurance
- Diverse learning and development opportunities to support you to progress in your career
- Dedicated Employee Assistance Programme and a 24/7 remote GP service for you and your family
We’re an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from everyone. The AA values diversity and the difference this brings to our culture and our customers. We actively seek people from diverse backgrounds to join us and become part of an inclusive company where you can be yourself, be empowered to be your best and feel like you truly belong.
As part of the onboarding process, we complete several pre-employment checks including work reference, credit and criminal record checks. We may close the vacancy sooner than the advertised date if we get a high volume of applications, please apply now if you are interested.
VAT & Indirect Tax Lead employer: The AA
The AA is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in London with hybrid flexibility that promotes a healthy work-life balance. Employees benefit from comprehensive training and development opportunities, alongside a supportive culture that values diversity and inclusion. With competitive benefits such as generous annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and discounts on various services, the AA is committed to fostering employee growth and well-being while making a meaningful impact in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land VAT & Indirect Tax Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their values and how they align with yours. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or use online platforms to get comfortable with common questions. The more you practice, the more confident you'll feel when it’s time to shine in front of the hiring managers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. So, go ahead and hit that apply button!
We think you need these skills to ace VAT & Indirect Tax Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the VAT & Indirect Tax Lead role. Highlight your relevant experience and skills, especially those related to VAT compliance and financial analysis. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background aligns with our mission at the AA. Let us know what excites you about working in a dynamic environment like ours.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, don’t forget to mention specific examples where you've tackled complex VAT issues or improved processes. We love candidates who can demonstrate their analytical thinking and practical solutions!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s super easy, and you’ll be one step closer to joining our fantastic team at the AA!
How to prepare for a job interview at The AA
✨Know Your VAT Basics
Make sure you brush up on your VAT knowledge before the interview. Understand key concepts like reverse charge VAT and the Capital Goods Scheme, as these will likely come up in conversation. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're well-prepared and knowledgeable.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Since the role involves carrying out analytical reviews of transactional data, be ready to discuss your experience with this. Prepare examples of how you've successfully analysed data in the past, highlighting your attention to detail and accuracy. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the responsibilities of the position.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions where you might need to solve complex problems related to VAT compliance or process improvements. Think of specific situations from your past work where you identified issues and implemented solutions. This will help you illustrate your problem-solving skills effectively.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
The role requires working closely with various teams, so be prepared to discuss your experience in collaboration. Share examples of how you've supported or mentored colleagues in the past, as well as how you’ve built relationships across departments. This will highlight your interpersonal skills and ability to work within a team.
