Head of Operational Tax

Royal London; Alderley Edge; Hybrid; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading financial services firm in the UK seeks a Head of Operational Tax to manage tax compliance and oversee operational tax risk. This role demands expertise in UK tax legislation and strategic leadership. Ideal candidates will have experience in leading a team and strong stakeholder management skills. The position offers hybrid working arrangements and a comprehensive benefits package including 28 days annual leave and a matching pension scheme.

Benefits

28 days annual leave

Up to 14% employer matching pension scheme

Private medical insurance

Qualifications

• Qualified accountant or equivalent experience.
• Experience in operational tax compliance and risk management.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team to manage operational tax risk.
• Oversee compliance for pension and insurance regulations.
• Provide technical support and advice.
• Act as the main point of contact for tax queries.
• Support tax compliance training across the Group.
• Engage with HMRC and industry associations.

Skills

Qualified accountant and/or tax professional

In-depth knowledge of UK tax legislation

Proven ability to lead a team

Strong stakeholder management

Strategic thinking

Experience in operational tax compliance

Knowledge of industry best practices

Job description

Job Title: Head of Operational Tax. Contract Type: Permanent. Location: Alderley Park or Edinburgh. Working style: Hybrid 50% home/office based. Closing date: 3rd December 2025.

About the role

• Lead a team to proactively manage operational tax risk in line with our Tax Strategy, Policy, and risk appetite.
• Oversee end-to-end compliance for tax regulations relevant to pensions, ISAs, Automatic Exchange of Information, and life products.
• Drive assurance reviews and monitor adherence to operational tax processes.
• Provide technical support and advice to UK & ROI Insurance businesses and subsidiary Boards.
• Act as the main point of contact for tax queries from key business areas.
• Oversee and support tax compliance activities and training across the Group.
• Represent Royal London in engagement activities with HMRC and industry associations.

About you

• Qualified accountant and/or tax professional, or equivalent experience in industry, profession, or HMRC.
• In-depth knowledge of UK tax legislation affecting long-term savings and insurance products.
• Proven ability to lead, manage, and motivate a team of tax professionals.
• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Strategic thinker with experience influencing senior management decisions.
• Experience in operational tax compliance, risk management, and process improvement.
• Up-to-date with industry best practice and able to provide innovative solutions.

About Royal London

We’re the UK’s largest mutual life, pension and investment company, offering protection, long-term savings and asset management products and services.

Benefits

Our People Promise to our colleagues is that we will all work somewhere inclusive, responsible, enjoyable and fulfilling. This is underpinned by our Spirit of Royal London values; Empowered, Trustworthy, Collaborate, Achieve. We reward employees with great workplace benefits such as 28 days annual leave in addition to bank holidays, an up to 14% employer matching pension scheme and private medical insurance. You can see all our benefits here – Our Benefits.

Inclusion, Diversity and Belonging

We’re an Inclusive employer. We celebrate and value different backgrounds and cultures across Royal London. Our diverse people and perspectives give us a range of skills which are recognised and respected – whatever their background.