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- Tasks: Lead the tax strategy and ensure compliance for the University of Oxford.
- Company: Join the world’s leading university, renowned for innovation and excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days of annual leave, flexible working, and family-friendly policies.
- Why this job: Shape the future of tax in a prestigious institution while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified tax professional with extensive experience in large organisations.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and to work in a vibrant community.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Great Clarendon Street, Oxford with the option of some remote/hybrid working.
Salary: Grade 10 with market supplement.
Contract: Full Time, Permanent.
About Us: The University of Oxford has been ranked the world’s leading university for ten consecutive years. A place where centuries of tradition meet world‑changing innovation, we offer you the chance to shape the future while working in an inspiring environment that promotes excellence. The Finance Division is responsible for providing professional advice and guidance on financial matters affecting our departments, divisions and subsidiary companies at the University of Oxford. The tax team partners closely with our academics, researchers and leadership teams across the collegiate University, taking responsibility for tax compliance and planning the tax affairs.
What We Offer:
- 38 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays) to support your wellbeing, with the option to purchase up to 10 extra days and additional leave after long service.
- Award winning family leave schemes, offering up to 26 weeks of full‑pay maternity and adoption leave, plus 12 weeks of full‑pay paternity/partner leave.
- Affordable and sustainable commuting options, including a cycle loan scheme, discounted bus travel, electric car scheme, and season ticket loans.
- A commitment to hybrid and flexible working.
- Access to a vibrant community through our social, cultural, and sports clubs.
About the Role: As the Head of Tax, you hold responsibility for the University’s tax strategy, and ensure that the University is fully compliant with its tax obligations in the UK and internationally as well as providing advisory services to departments and divisions. You will also lead the tax team fostering a culture of collaboration and accountability, and encouraging them to maximise their professional potential. The role covers all forms of tax including VAT, SDLT, Employment taxes, Customs Duty, Corporation Tax with a focus on educational charity exemptions. As the senior leader for tax, you will also represent the University with HMRC and other representative bodies such as Charities Tax Group and British Universities Finance Directors Group.
About You: To be considered for this senior role you must be able to demonstrate the following:
- Professionally qualified tax professional (ATT, CTA or equivalent), or qualified accountant with extensive relevant experience in tax.
- Substantial experience of providing tax advice in a large complex organization or in practice, ideally in a partially exempt organisation.
- Proven track record of managing large teams of professional tax experts.
- Substantial in‑depth knowledge of indirect tax and knowledge of charity taxes.
- Proven experience of liaising and negotiating with HMRC.
- Strong experience of partnering with, and influencing Board/senior leadership level colleagues.
- Ability to coach and develop teams to achieve high performance.
Sponsorship and Right to Work: This role meets the criteria for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa. The University will meet the cost of the Skilled Worker visa and NHS surcharge for applicants that require a visa. Please let us know in your application if you require sponsorship.
Application Process: To apply, please upload the details of two referees. The closing date for applications is 12 noon on 13th February. Interviews will take place on w/c 23rd February and 2nd March and will be held face‑to‑face.
Head of Tax in Oxford employer: University of Oxford
Contact Detail:
University of Oxford Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Tax in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance and tax sectors, especially those who have ties to the University of Oxford. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info that could make all the difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the University’s tax strategy and recent developments in tax law. Show us you’re not just a candidate, but someone who’s genuinely interested in shaping the future of tax at the University.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership pitch! As the Head of Tax, you’ll need to demonstrate how you can lead and inspire a team. Think about examples from your past where you’ve successfully managed teams and influenced senior leaders.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Tax in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the Head of Tax role. Highlight your tax qualifications and any leadership experience, as we want to see how you can contribute to our team.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about tax and how your background makes you the perfect fit for this position. Be sure to mention your experience with HMRC and large teams.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements in previous roles. We love to see quantifiable results, so if you've improved compliance or led successful projects, let us know!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Oxford
✨Know Your Tax Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your tax knowledge, especially around VAT, SDLT, and charity taxes. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with the University’s needs and how you can contribute to their tax strategy.
✨Show Leadership Skills
As a senior role, they’ll want to see your ability to lead and develop teams. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed large teams and fostered collaboration in previous roles.
✨Understand the University’s Culture
Research the University of Oxford’s values and culture. Be prepared to discuss how you can fit into their environment and contribute to their mission of excellence while promoting a positive team culture.
✨Prepare for HMRC Discussions
Since you'll be representing the University with HMRC, think about your past experiences negotiating with tax authorities. Have specific examples ready that showcase your negotiation skills and how you’ve successfully navigated complex tax issues.
