Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead UK corporate tax compliance and provide strategic tax advice.
- Company: Join Whitbread, the owner of Premier Inn, a leader in budget hospitality.
- Benefits: Enjoy up to 30% performance bonus, healthcare, and discounts on stays and dining.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic finance team driving growth and innovation.
- Qualifications: Must be ACA or CTA qualified with 5+ years of experience in tax.
- Other info: Hybrid role based in Dunstable, with a vibrant company culture.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
It is essential that Whitbread, owner of the leading budget hotel brand Premier Inn, remains compliant with all tax obligations whilst optimizing its tax position. The Senior Direct Tax Manager will use their comprehensive tax technical knowledge, attention to detail, and strong communication skills to lead on a range of corporation tax and employment tax matters. They will build effective relationships with key internal and external customers to support the wider Whitbread strategy. This role would suit someone who is looking to make that move from an accounting practice into industry.
Location: Dunstable, hybrid- a minimum of 3 days per week in the office.
Job Type: Permanent
Why you’ll love it here:
- Bonus: Enjoy an annual Whitbread performance incentive worth up to 30% of base salary
- Cash/Car Allowance
- Healthcare: Bupa plus family
- Discounts: Up to 60% discount on Premier Inn stays and 25% discount on our Restaurant brands
What you’ll do:
- Manage all aspects of UK corporate tax compliance including the preparation of computations and returns, capital allowances claims, and R&D claims.
- Deliver accurate tax accounting for year-end and interim Group reporting under IFRS, maintaining excellent relationships with external advisors and auditors.
- Provide pragmatic advice on complex property transactions and complex tax technical areas.
- Support the Head of Group Tax on all international tax matters including transfer pricing and cross border financing.
- Manage IR35 and CIS compliance.
- Support the Head of Group Tax on tax governance matters including SAO and Tax Strategy.
- Provide excellent people management and team coaching.
What we need:
- Fully qualified (ACA or CTA) with minimum 5+ years PQE.
- Detailed knowledge of UK corporation tax and tax accounting under IAS 12.
- Ability to work at pace in a high-pressured environment whilst maintaining accuracy and high attention to detail.
- Excellent communication skills and ability to build strong internal and external stakeholder relationships.
Be part of our Finance team at Whitbread: Times are changing and our ambition is bigger than ever. This means huge things when it comes to budget and forecasting, and that’s where our Finance team really springs into action. Finding the right answers to drive us forwards. With new concepts launching, new spaces secured, and reams of plans in motion, there’s no more exciting time to join than right now. Get to experience career growth that moves as fast as we do and be part of framing where we are heading.
Senior Direct Tax Manager employer: Whitbread PLC
Contact Detail:
Whitbread PLC Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Direct Tax Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the tax field, especially those who have transitioned from accounting practice to industry. Attend relevant tax seminars or workshops where you can meet potential colleagues and learn more about the corporate tax landscape.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with Whitbread's business model and their approach to tax compliance. Understanding their operations will help you tailor your conversations and demonstrate how your skills can directly contribute to their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've managed complex tax issues in previous roles. Highlight your experience with UK corporation tax and any successful projects that showcase your attention to detail and communication skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Research current trends and challenges in the tax industry, particularly those affecting large corporations like Whitbread. Being knowledgeable about these topics will allow you to engage in meaningful discussions during interviews and show your proactive approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Direct Tax Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your qualifications, particularly your ACA or CTA certification and relevant experience in UK corporation tax. Emphasise your ability to manage compliance and your experience with capital allowances and R&D claims.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your strong communication skills and ability to build relationships, as these are crucial for the Senior Direct Tax Manager position.
Showcase Relevant Experience: When detailing your work history, focus on roles where you managed tax compliance and provided advice on complex transactions. Highlight any experience you have in coaching teams or managing stakeholders, as this will resonate well with Whitbread's needs.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any errors or inconsistencies. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is essential for the role of Senior Direct Tax Manager.
How to prepare for a job interview at Whitbread PLC
✨Showcase Your Technical Knowledge
As a Senior Direct Tax Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your comprehensive understanding of UK corporation tax and tax accounting. Be prepared to discuss specific tax regulations and how they apply to real-world scenarios, especially those relevant to Whitbread's operations.
✨Emphasise Communication Skills
Strong communication skills are crucial for this role. During the interview, highlight your experience in building relationships with internal and external stakeholders. Share examples of how you've effectively communicated complex tax matters to non-tax professionals.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in high-pressure situations. Think about past experiences where you successfully managed tax compliance or provided advice on complex transactions, and be ready to explain your thought process.
✨Demonstrate Leadership and Team Management
Since the role involves people management and team coaching, be prepared to discuss your leadership style. Share examples of how you've mentored team members or led projects, focusing on how you foster collaboration and drive results within a team.
