Senior Tax Associate

MHA; Colchester; Hybrid; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working

25 days holiday + bank holidays

Discretionary annual bonus

Employee support programmes

Job summary

MHA is a leading UK accountancy firm inviting a Personal Tax professional to join its Colchester team. The role focuses on preparing self-assessment, trusts and partnerships, with complex cases and high net worth clients. You’ll work within a people‑driven firm that supports growth and development.

The position offers flexible Agile Working with core hours and two home working days, plus training and progression opportunities as part of a supportive environment.

Qualifications

• Attention to detail and accuracy in tax work.
• Strong numerical and analytical abilities for complex tax scenarios.
• Ability to draft client communications clearly and professionally.

Responsibilities

• Prepare self-assessment, trust, and partnership returns including complex cases (HNWIs).
• Ensure tax returns comply with procedures and deadlines.
• Review PAYE codes and NI calculations for clients.
• Handle client and HMRC correspondence with accuracy and timeliness.
• Mentor junior staff and manage workload under tax manager guidance.

Skills

Attention to detail

Aptitude for figures

Independent work

Client relationship building

Education

ATT studies in progress

Tools

Excel

Word

E-mail systems

Job description

Competitive salary, negotiable depending on your experience and expertise.

Are you ready to bring your Personal Tax expertise to a role where your skills and unique perspective can make a lasting impact?

What Sets Us Apart

At MHA, we’re about people first – our people, our clients, and the communities we serve. As one of the UK’s top 15 accountancy firms and a proud member of Baker Tilly International, the 8th largest network in the world, we are a hub of global knowledge with a strong local commitment.

Our people-focused approach truly sets us apart. Here, you won’t just be another face in the firm; you’ll be part of an ambitious, driven team dedicated to continuous learning and growth. We invest in our people because they are the foundation of our success. With access to unparalleled resources and award-winning development programmes, you’ll have the freedom to shape your career while making a meaningful impact. We take immense pride in being awarded gold for Investors in People. This recognition reflects our deep commitment to nurturing talent and ensuring every individual feels valued and supported.

Here, You’ll Go Beyond Numbers

We’re looking for a talented Personal Tax professional who thrives in a dynamic environment and embraces the chance to tackle complex challenges. At MHA, you’ll be surrounded by passionate professionals who are dedicated to making a difference. Your work in Personal Tax will go beyond the numbers – it’s about building meaningful client relationships, understanding their businesses, navigating risks, and delivering insights that drive real results.

• Preparation of self-assessment, trust & partnership returns including complex cases, HNWIs. Helping to ensure tax returns are completed and filed by the deadline.
• Completion and compliance to all tax return control procedures
• Checking and updating client PAYE codes
• National Insurance calculations
• Dealing with client and HMRC correspondence
• Undertake more complex CGT calculations
• Undertake income tax planning for the client.
• Tax responsibility for training junior staff as guided by the tax manager. Giving clear and unambiguous instructions.
• Assisting the tax manager to ensure junior staff are managing their workload
• Take responsibility for own training records.
• To manage personal time and working practices to maximize profitability and protect the good reputation of the firm.
• To maintain the highest standards of personal organisation, setting an example to more junior members of staff.
• Maintaining progress reports

What We’re Looking For

• Studying for ATT or recently qualified
• Up to date technical knowledge of taxation and the firm’s software packages.
• Awareness of departmental objectives and key performance indicators.
• Awareness of the firm’s services and product offering.
• Ability to use sector software, in particular accounts prep, Excel, Word and e-mail systems.
• To be able to draft letters which are commercially sensible and appropriate to the client's situation.
• Adapt to different audiences and able to thoroughly research available data and present findings in a way which can be understood by both clients and staff.
• Willingness to combine the demands of a full‑time role whilst studying for further qualifications.
• Flexibility in approach to tasks.
• Ability to prioritise own workload.
• Ability to use professional judgement where appropriate.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Have an aptitude for figures and an interest in business and commerce.
• Attention to detail and accuracy of work.
• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Word and Excel and IT applications.

Rewards That Resonate

You’re more than a number to us; you’re an individual with unique talents and aspirations. Our benefits are designed to support your well‑being, foster your professional growth, and recognise your contributions.

Agile Working: Enjoy the flexibility of core hours from 10 AM to 2 PM and two home working days, allowing you to balance your work and personal commitments seamlessly.

25 days holiday PLUS bank holidays, PLUS the opportunity to buy or sell up to 5 days (28 days on a training contract, with the opportunity to buy 5 days)

Competitive salary package

Employee recognition awards: Outstanding Performance Award Bonus discretionary annual bonus, and other recognition initiatives.

New and improved programme for succession planning and supportive management structure to help you realise your potential

Employee Assistance Programme: Access a free confidential 24-hour support service, including unlimited counselling sessions and virtual doctors available for you and your family.