VAT Assistant Manager

Location: Manchester

Salary: Up to £65,000 (London)

Company Overview:

Our client is a leading UK Top 60 accountancy firm with a differentiated advisory-led proposition, headquartered in Manchester. They have been a trusted name in professional services for over 40 years. Their commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction has positioned them as a premier provider in the market.

Our client does not offer a one-size-fits-all approach. They recognise that, in today’s economic environment, businesses require bespoke support and provide end-to-end services from start-up to exit strategies. Their mantra is: “Good advisers help your business. Great ones transform it.” This forms the foundation of the business.

Role Overview:

Our client is seeking a highly motivated and detail-driven Assistant Manager to become an integral part of their Independent Tax Team in a full-time capacity, reporting to the VAT Partner. This dynamic role involves engaging directly with clients, handling casework, and collaborating with various departments across the business to ensure seamless operations and exceptional service delivery.

Key Responsibilities:

• Take ownership of the VAT inbox as a go-to technical expert, confidently managing a high volume of client queries and delivering clear, timely guidance.
• Provide well-reasoned VAT advice by applying legislation, case law, and HMRC guidance, bringing clarity to complex issues for both clients and colleagues.
• Uphold exceptional compliance standards through meticulous record-keeping, proactively identifying risks and escalating them to the VAT Manager where appropriate.
• Identify high-risk or technically challenging matters and work closely with the VAT Manager to ensure they are handled with precision and strategic insight.
• Contribute to business development by engaging with new client enquiries, identifying opportunities, and making referrals across the wider firm.
• Represent the VAT team confidently, delivering ad hoc training and supporting the development of junior colleagues.
• Monitor legislative changes and emerging HMRC positions, contributing to technical updates for the company website and internal platforms.
• Liaise directly with HMRC and external advisors, presenting well-structured arguments and defending client positions professionally.
• Maintain and refine central VAT query logs to promote consistency, transparency, and shared learning across the team.
• Deliver high-quality VAT advice to internal stakeholders and clients, grounded in robust legal analysis and commercial awareness.
• Support the VAT Manager with ECNs, Pre-Creds, and non-statutory clearance requests, assisting in the preparation of technically sound submissions.
• Provide regular updates to Senior Managers and Directors on client matters and emerging technical issues.
• Attend networking events, seminars, and industry briefings to strengthen technical expertise and professional profile.
• Act as a key contact for DIY Housebuilder Claims and provide support to the Manager, Senior Manager, and Partner to ensure smooth team operations.

Requirements:

• Fully ACCA qualified (or equivalent).
• Extensive VAT experience.
• Background within an accountancy practice environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills with proven client-facing experience.