VAT Associate Director

TN United Kingdom; London; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An exciting opportunity awaits at a forward-thinking firm, where you'll manage a diverse client portfolio in VAT services. This role offers the flexibility of hybrid work, allowing you to thrive both in the office and at home. You will be instrumental in driving business development and enhancing client relationships, all while fostering a collaborative team environment. With significant opportunities for professional growth and progression to Director or Partner levels, this position is perfect for those eager to make a meaningful impact in the VAT sector. Join a culture that values innovation and individuality, and take your career to new heights!

Qualifications

• Senior-level VAT experience with strong client management skills.
• Confident in advisory services and mentoring junior staff.

Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of clients ensuring service and quality expectations are met.
• Identify and advise on VAT planning opportunities.

Skills

VAT planning

Client management

Business development

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Job description

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Opportunity Overview

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a growing team at an exciting stage, working on a hybrid basis and enjoying the flexibility of working from home and in the office. The variety of projects will challenge you daily, helping you expand your skills and grow professionally. You'll have ample opportunities to broaden your horizons and discover a culture that nurtures individuality and celebrates innovative thinking!

Role Purpose

The purpose of this role, in collaboration with the existing Director and Partner group, is to manage a portfolio of clients and the firm, ensuring that service, quality, and cost expectations are met. Responsibilities include:

1. Identifying and advising on VAT planning opportunities and undertaking specialist technical assignments as needed.
2. Growing the existing client portfolio by leveraging relationships within the firm and leading marketing initiatives.
3. Serving as the primary contact for clients on VAT queries, maintaining excellent client service.
4. Identifying, interviewing, and converting prospective clients; assisting in research and proposal preparation for new work.
5. Monitoring work progress to ensure profitability and timely billing.
6. Participating in client seminars and following up with contacts.
7. Supporting review, quality control, and departmental administration.
8. Attending staff meetings and training sessions.
9. Observing health and safety protocols and reporting concerns.
10. Performing additional duties within the scope of the role as directed by management.

Ideal Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will have senior-level VAT experience (Senior Manager or Associate Director), with strong client management and business development skills. You should be confident in advisory services and eager to mentor junior staff and foster a positive team environment. Key qualities include:

• Commercial awareness with the ability to meet targets and deadlines.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to develop and maintain relationships.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within local and national teams.

This role offers significant opportunities for professional growth and rapid progression to Director or Partner levels. We are also open to considering applications for entry at the Director level from candidates with an impressive track record at this level.

Note: This job description reflects current role requirements. Duties and responsibilities may evolve, and the description will be reviewed and amended accordingly in consultation with the individual.

About the Service Line Head

Ian Carpenter, VAT Partner: “My journey in tax began unexpectedly when I passed the civil service entrance exam. I initially thought I would choose between the Foreign Office, the MOD, or the Home Office, but was told I was joining HMRC, with VAT and Excise as options—neither of which I knew at the time. I chose VAT, and to this day, I can't fully explain why. This uncertain start sparked a passion for VAT—the balance of inputs and outputs, its relation to business transactions, and its extensive case law. I enjoyed engaging with fellow tax professionals and business leaders alike, helping them understand the impact of VAT on their operations. After ten years at HMRC, I joined the profession and have been with RSM for the past twelve years—the longest I’ve spent anywhere. RSM feels different because of our collaborative culture and commitment to delivering the best solutions for clients and teams. Leading and growing our service line and mentoring new professionals has been a privilege. I am passionate about technology’s role in transforming tax administration, creating opportunities to reduce mundane tasks and develop innovative client offerings. Working with talented, tech-savvy colleagues makes this journey exciting.”