VAT Manager

Overview

In this VAT Manager role you will lead advisory engagements within a well-established practice, delivering practical VAT solutions for a diverse client base. You’ll collaborate with Partners and Directors, manage a portfolio of clients, and own delivery from scoping to completion. The position supports business development and aims to grow the VAT practice through strong client relationships and cross‑firm collaboration. You’ll work across Not-for-Profit, Property, Financial Services, and other sectors, including international VAT matters, helping clients navigate complex VAT challenges with commercial insight.

Responsibilities

• Manage a client portfolio ensuring high technical standards, budget adherence, and timely delivery
• Collaborate with Partner and Directors on VAT advisory projects from scoping to delivery
• Take ownership of small/medium projects and coordinate with clients and colleagues
• Build and maintain strong client relationships, providing practical, commercial VAT advice
• Engage with the VAT Directors and wider team on complex assignments across sectors
• Support clients across Not-for-Profit, Property, Financial Services, Media and Recruitment, and Corporate Finance matters
• Advise on complex VAT issues including international VAT, property transactions, and apportionment methodologies
• Research technical VAT issues, interpret legislation and HMRC guidance, and provide actionable recommendations
• Identify VAT risks and planning opportunities to add value for clients
• Foster cross‑firm relationships and respond to internal referrals and technical queries
• Contribute to business development by identifying opportunities with existing and prospective clients
• Manage WIP, budgets and billing for the portfolio and ensure profitability
• Review VAT returns and related work prepared by compliance specialists when needed
• Manage HMRC enquiries, inspections, disputes and appeals, including support through reconsiderations and penalties
• Support VAT registrations, deregistrations and grouping matters
• Mentor junior team members and contribute to their development
• Escalate high-risk matters promptly with sound judgement and commercial awareness

Key requirements

• Strong VAT advisory experience in a professional services environment
• Broad technical VAT knowledge across sectors and transaction types
• Experience in Not-for-Profit and/or Property sectors advantageous
• ATT, CTA, or equivalent professional qualification preferred
• Ability to collaborate across service lines and build internal networks
• Experience liaising with HMRC and managing VAT enquiries
• Ability to assess risk and know when to escalate to senior team members
• Excellent organisational and project management skills
• Experience managing client relationships and delivering advisory projects independently
• Strong written and verbal communication and ability to explain complex VAT concepts to non-specialists
• Commercial awareness and interest in identifying opportunities to support clients and develop relationships

• Collaborative mindset
• Client-focused relationship building
• Strong communication skills
• VAT advisory across multiple sectors
• International VAT
• Partial exemption methodologies

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