I am currently working with an international law firm and assisting in the recruitment of a newly created Group Tax Manager position. This role will be supported by the Tax Accountant and assume accountability for all group tax compliance matters, encompassing both direct and indirect taxation across the UK and international jurisdictions with a particular emphasis on overseas compliance. This role will take a leading role in shaping the group's overall tax strategy and explore the integration of technology to enhance tax compliance processes.

The main responsibilities of the role include conducting thorough research and analysis of existing and forthcoming tax legislation on both local and international levels to inform the firm’s planning and strategy. This includes anticipation of the UK basis period reform and corporate tax implications in the Middle East. Collaborating with the CFO and Financial Controller, the role entails identifying and mitigating tax risks. Exploring alternative tax treatments to alleviate or minimise tax burdens while ensuring proper documentation of approaches taken is crucial. Additionally, advising on transfer pricing matters and ensuring compliance with the group's transfer pricing policy are essential. Developing a comprehensive understanding of profit-sharing approaches within the Group is also part of the responsibility. This role will oversee the preparation and submission of UK LLP and corporate tax returns, acting as a primary liaison with HMRC, tax advisors, and partners’ accountants, as well as supervising partner tax reserving calculations and payments are central tasks. Regarding Tax Reporting, the role involves documenting all tax processes across the firm, coordinating tax audits or VAT investigations, managing intercompany accounts and invoicing, and ensuring timely handling of tax-related matters with the International Management Accountant. Furthermore, overseeing VAT returns, compliance with UK and international VAT requirements, corporate tax compliance for non-UK offices, and other HMRC reporting requirements like PAYE settlement agreements are integral aspects of the role.

The ideal candidate for this role should hold CTA and/or ACA qualifications or their equivalent, demonstrating a deep and current understanding of tax accounting, compliance, and various tax return types. Experience within international professional services firms is essential, along with the capability to navigate complex tax issues and inter-jurisdictional dynamics efficiently. Ideally, the candidate would possess experience in partnership accounting and tax affairs, as well as a grasp of international tax challenges relevant to a global law firm. Strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and the capacity to build trust among diverse stakeholders are vital. Being highly organised, meeting deadlines, and adept problem-solving are essential traits, coupled with excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to convey complex financial information clearly and accessibly.