At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead R&D tax claims, analyse costs, and manage client relationships with innovative tech.
- Company: Unity Advisory, a forward-thinking CFO advisory firm focused on clarity and outcomes.
- Benefits: Flexible working environment, ownership of projects, and opportunities for innovation.
- Other info: Inclusive recruitment process ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates.
- Why this job: Shape the future of R&D tax advisory while leveraging AI-driven tools.
- Qualifications: Expertise in UK R&D tax relief and strong project management skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Unity Advisory is a pure‑play, experience‑led CFO advisory firm providing integrated finance, commercial, tax and deals support. We are free from audit conflicts and AI‑enabled by design, combining deep technical expertise with automation, analytics and AI built into the delivery of every engagement. We are building an alternative to traditional advisory firms, focused on clarity over complexity, outcomes over hours, and practical advice delivered at pace for CFOs making high‑consequence decisions.
What You’ll Do
- Own the end-to-end financial and tax‑technical delivery of R&D tax claims, including cost identification, apportionment, computation, CT600 adjustments, and HMRC submission.
- Analyse client cost bases to identify and quantify qualifying direct and indirect R&D expenditure under the merged RDEC scheme and the Enhanced R&D Intensive Support (ERIS) regime.
- Lead detailed cost reviews with finance teams, interrogating trial balances, payroll data, subcontractor arrangements, cloud computing and data licence costs, and overhead allocation methodologies.
- Navigate the complexities of the merged scheme, including the overseas expenditure restrictions, PAYE/NIC cap mechanics, subsidised expenditure rules, and claim notification requirements.
- Prepare and review robust claim reports and supporting schedules that withstand HMRC enquiry, including the Additional Information Form (AIF).
- Stay ahead of legislative and case‑law developments, advising clients on their practical impact and adjusting claim strategies accordingly.
- Work alongside the Technology & Science team to ensure qualifying activity narratives and cost schedules are fully aligned.
- Manage HMRC enquiries and voluntary disclosures, acting as the primary tax‑technical point of contact.
- Develop and maintain trust‑based senior client relationships, advising CFOs, Group Tax Directors, and Financial Controllers.
- Provide leadership, coaching, and technical oversight to junior team members on costing methodology and tax compliance.
- Actively adopt, build, and improve AI‑driven tools and workflows for cost analysis, claim computation, and compliance, in line with Unity’s culture of embedding AI across all workstreams.
- Contribute to business development, pricing strategy, thought leadership, and go‑to‑market initiatives.
What You Bring
- Deep expertise in the tax and financial mechanics of UK R&D tax relief, including RDEC, ERIS, cost categorisation, and CT600 treatment, ideally gained in a Big 4, top‑tier, or specialist R&D advisory firm.
- Proven ability to navigate complex corporate cost structures, group recharges, subcontractor chains, and multi‑entity claim scenarios.
- Strong working knowledge of HMRC’s R&D compliance framework, enquiry processes, and the Additional Information Form.
- Excellent project management skills with the ability to manage multiple concurrent claims across varying industries and deadlines.
- Exceptional stakeholder management, with confidence advising senior finance and tax leaders.
- ACA, CTA, ATT qualified or equivalent practical experience.
- A genuine enthusiasm for AI and technology, with a willingness to adopt, experiment with, and help build AI‑enabled advisory tools.
- Collaborative, entrepreneurial mindset with a genuine appetite to help build a next‑generation advisory firm.
Working at Unity Advisory
We offer a hybrid and highly flexible working environment, centred around outcomes and impact. As a Senior Manager at Unity Advisory, you’ll be empowered to take ownership, drive innovation, and shape the future of R&D tax advisory in a firm that values modernity over legacy.
Additional Information
At Unity Advisory, we are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. In line with the Equality Act 2010, we will accommodate any suitable candidate requiring assistance to attend or conduct an interview. If you need any adjustments or support, please let us know when either scheduling your interview or in your application cover letter. We are dedicated to ensuring everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed and are here to support you throughout the process.
PLEASE NOTE: We do not accept unsolicited CVs from third‑party agencies.
Senior Manager - R&D Tax (Tax & Costing) in City of Westminster employer: Unity Advisory
Unity Advisory is an exceptional employer that champions a flexible and innovative work culture, allowing Senior Managers to take ownership of their projects while leveraging cutting-edge AI technology. With a strong focus on employee growth, we provide opportunities for professional development and collaboration within a supportive team environment, ensuring that our staff are equipped to deliver impactful results for clients. Located in a dynamic sector, Unity Advisory stands out as a forward-thinking firm dedicated to clarity and practical solutions, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Manager - R&D Tax (Tax & Costing) in City of Westminster
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance and tax sectors, especially those who might know someone at Unity Advisory. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of R&D tax relief and the latest HMRC guidelines. We want you to show off your expertise and how you can navigate the complexities of the role with ease.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just focus on your technical skills; highlight your leadership and coaching abilities too. Unity Advisory values collaboration, so be ready to discuss how you’ve mentored others and driven team success.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our innovative team.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Manager - R&D Tax (Tax & Costing) in City of Westminster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that match the Senior Manager - R&D Tax role. Highlight your expertise in UK R&D tax relief and any relevant project management experience to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're excited about the role and how your background aligns with our mission at Unity Advisory. Don’t forget to mention your enthusiasm for AI and technology!
Showcase Your Stakeholder Management Skills:We value strong relationships with clients, so be sure to highlight your experience in managing senior finance and tax leaders. Share examples of how you've built trust and delivered practical advice in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Unity Advisory
✨Know Your R&D Tax Relief Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on the specifics of UK R&D tax relief, especially the RDEC and ERIS schemes. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve navigated complex cost structures in previous roles, as this will show your deep expertise and understanding of the subject.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Management Skills
Unity Advisory values strong relationships with senior finance and tax leaders. Think of examples where you've successfully managed stakeholders or led teams through challenging projects. This will demonstrate your ability to build trust and communicate effectively.
✨Embrace AI and Technology
Since the role involves adopting AI-driven tools, come ready to discuss your enthusiasm for technology. Share any experiences where you've used tech to improve processes or outcomes, and be open about how you see AI shaping the future of R&D tax advisory.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect to tackle real-world scenarios during your interview. Practice articulating how you would approach cost identification and HMRC submissions. This practical knowledge will highlight your readiness to take ownership of the financial and tax-technical delivery.
