VAT Manager

Location: Manchester

Salary: Up to £75,000 (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 proactive, commercially minded VAT Manager to play a central role within their VAT team. Reporting directly to the VAT Director, the successful candidate will act as the first point of contact for clients, taking ownership of complex VAT matters, managing a diverse portfolio, and building long-term, trusted client relationships.

This is a high-impact position where the VAT Manager will lead on technical advisory work, oversee case management, and confidently represent clients in negotiations and disputes with HMRC. The role involves close collaboration with colleagues across the wider firm to ensure exceptional service delivery and contribute to the continued growth and reputation of the VAT offering.

Key Responsibilities:

• Act as the primary VAT contact for an assigned client portfolio, building strong relationships and delivering commercially focused advice
• Lead on complex VAT matters, applying legislation, case law, and HMRC guidance to provide clear and strategic solutions
• Represent clients in HMRC enquiries and disputes, preparing well-structured technical arguments and defending positions confidently
• Maintain responsibility for the quality and accuracy of VAT work, ensuring strong compliance standards and robust audit trails
• Identify risks and opportunities early, leading on technically challenging matters and escalating to the VAT Director where appropriate
• Contribute to business development activities, engaging with new enquiries, identifying growth opportunities, and supporting cross-referrals across the firm
• Lead, mentor, and support junior team members through training, work reviews, and ongoing development
• Monitor changes in VAT legislation and HMRC practice, contributing to internal knowledge sharing and external thought leadership
• Build effective working relationships with HMRC and external advisors, ensuring communication is professional and aligned with client objectives
• Enhance internal VAT processes, maintaining central query logs and supporting knowledge sharing across the team
• Provide high-level VAT advisory support to both clients and internal stakeholders, grounded in strong legal and commercial analysis
• Lead on ECNs, Pre-Creds, and non-statutory clearance requests, ensuring submissions are technically robust and well evidenced
• Engage with senior leadership, providing updates on client matters, risks, and emerging technical issues
• Attend networking events, seminars, and industry briefings to strengthen expertise and professional presence
• Act as a senior point of contact for DIY Housebuilder Claims, ensuring smooth management and high service standards

Requirements:

• Fully qualified accountant (ACCA / CTA / ACA or equivalent) with strong technical grounding in UK VAT legislation, case law, and HMRC processes
• Significant hands-on VAT experience gained within an accountancy practice or specialist tax environment
• Proven ability to manage and grow client relationships, acting as a trusted advisor and primary point of contact
• Demonstrable experience handling HMRC enquiries and disputes, with confidence in defending technical positions
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret legislation and provide clear strategic recommendations
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, able to explain complex VAT matters clearly and effectively
• Experience mentoring and developing junior team members
• Highly organised with strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple deadlines
• Commercial awareness, with the ability to identify opportunities and support the growth of the VAT service line
• Proactive approach to continuous professional development and staying current with VAT developments
• Collaborative mindset, working effectively with colleagues across tax, audit, accounts, and advisory teams