UK Tax Incentives Director

Grant Thornton (US); Belfast; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package

Equity and inclusion initiatives

Recognition programs

Job summary

A leading professional services firm in the UK is looking for a dynamic UK Tax Incentives Director to lead their R&D Incentives Team. The role involves strategic vision execution, business development, and managing high-impact client relationships. The ideal candidate will have a strong technical background in R&D tax legislation, excellent leadership skills, and a proven track record in driving growth while ensuring quality and compliance in tax claims. This position offers a supportive work environment focused on development and diversity.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in R&D tax incentives, ideally in a Big 4 or large professional services firm.
• Proven track record of leading large-scale R&D engagements.
• Strong commercial acumen and experience in business development.

Responsibilities

• Set and execute the strategic vision for the Incentives team.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities across sectors.
• Lead technical delivery of robust R&D tax claims.

Skills

R&D tax incentives

Stakeholder management

Business development

Team management

Technical expertise in R&D legislation

Education

ACA/ACCA/CTA qualified

Job description

UK Tax Incentives Director

Grant Thornton (US)

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Director to lead our UK Incentives Team, focusing on Research & Development (R&D) tax relief. This strategic, client‑facing role blends technical expertise, leadership, and business development to shape our R&D offering, drive growth, and ensure delivery excellence across a diverse portfolio of clients.

Key Responsibilities

• Set and execute the strategic vision for the Incentives team, aligning with broader firm objectives.
• Proactively identify and pursue new business opportunities across sectors and regions, leading high‑impact pitches, proposals, and tenders.
• Represent the firm as a subject‑matter expert in R&D tax incentives, building and maintaining a strong professional network.
• Collaborate with other tax service lines and wider teams to deliver integrated solutions and support cross‑selling opportunities.
• Lead the delivery of technically robust R&D tax claims, ensuring accuracy, defensibility, and alignment with HMRC guidance.
• Act as a trusted advisor to senior client stakeholders, offering tailored solutions that maximise value from available tax incentives.
• Review and approve technical documentation and financial quantifications of R&D claims, championing best practices in quality and governance.
• Manage, mentor, and develop a high‑performing team, fostering collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning.
• Lead the operational and financial management of the Incentives team.

Skills & Experience

• ACA/ACCA and/or CTA qualified (or equivalent).
• Extensive experience in R&D tax incentives, ideally within a Big 4 or large professional services firm.
• Proven track record of leading large‑scale R&D engagements and managing senior client relationships.
• Deep technical knowledge of R&D legislation and HMRC compliance requirements.
• Strong commercial acumen and experience in business development.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience in managing and developing high‑performing teams.

Life at Grant Thornton

Our reward and benefits are designed to create an environment where our people can flourish. We are committed to building a culture that provides the necessary benefits to promote a healthy lifestyle and help our team thrive.

Equity, Diversity & Inclusion

At Grant Thornton we provide equitable opportunities for all colleagues and are committed to a sustainable, inclusive culture. We celebrate diversity in background, gender, age, ability, and identity, fostering an environment where every unique perspective is valued and heard.

Recognition

We create a culture of recognition and celebration by thanking those who surpass expectations and highlighting achievements through our Shout Out scheme. This program encourages peer acknowledgment and celebrates success across the firm.