VAT Manager - UK Russell Group University - Leeds / WFH

Your new company
This is a reputable and highly regarded UK Russell Group University who are looking to enhance their in-house tax function with the appointment of a VAT Manager to lead on their indirect taxes. The role is based in Leeds and offers excellent flexibility and hybrid working, whilst offering interesting, international VAT work. The business offers excellent opportunities for growth and development, and this role is essentially number 2 within their tax function.

Your new role
In this role, your expertise as a tax professional will be instrumental in upholding the tax strategy and maintaining the necessary control measures within indirect tax. As the VAT Manager, you will guide the team to fulfil the university's global tax compliance obligations and advise on various tax matters.

Your responsibilities will include:

* Work with the Group and International Tax Manager to identify and address priority tax issues and maximise potential VAT recoveries or mitigate tax issues.
* Support and oversee the VAT team, ensuring the submission of the quarterly VAT returns and annual adjustments in line with statutory deadlines.
* Ensure the integrity of data included in the VAT returns by implementing and managing appropriate review processes.
* Advise on the VAT treatment of research and enterprise funding bid applications and budgets, contractual issues, VAT efficiencies and encourage best practice.
* Liaise with internal and external tax advisors for specialist advice as appropriate but with the aim of minimising external advisor fees.
* Provide technical tax support and expertise and ensure the tax implications of major capital investments are fully considered and understood.
* Lead VAT and other tax compliance audits; ensure compliance with financial regulations and procedures.
* Design and implement a new VAT training strategy, and enable staff across the organisation to develop awareness and understanding of VAT liability and compliance issues.
* Maintain technical tax expertise through continuous personal development and attend conferences and training as required.
* Develop and maintain professional links with HMRC and external agencies.

What you'll need to succeed To be successful in this role you need to come from a strong VAT background and ideally have tax experience in the HE sector or another large complex organisation. This role is also suitable for someone moving out of practice with a broad understanding of complex VAT issues.

Other requirements include:

* Ideally, a CTA, ACCA, ATT or other relevant qualification such as being qualified by experience.
* Well-rounded VAT knowledge with a good understanding of complex VAT issues and upcoming legislation.
* Ability to communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
* Good leadership skills, and ideally some experience of managing a team or individuals within a tax function.

What you'll get in return
This role offers an excellent range of benefits and package for the right person, including:

* Salary of £46,000 to £59,000 (depending on experience).
* 26-day holiday, plus an additional 16 days of bank holidays with a Christmas / new year closure.
* Hybrid working, just 2 days in Leeds per week.
* Generous pension scheme contribution of 14.5%.
* Discounted gym and childcare facilities on campus.
* Excellent learning and development program with an opportunity to take on international tax work.

What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or contact Sam Puddephatt on 07501517572 or now. If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.

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