Tax Consultant

Tax Consultant - East London - Eastern Cape

Department: Tax
Location: Port Elizabeth
Reports to: Tax Manager / Director

Job Purpose: The Tax Consultant will provide tax advisory and compliance services to clients, ensuring accurate and timely submission of tax returns and contributing to the strategic tax planning process.

The role requires a deep understanding of current tax laws and regulations, as well as a focus on providing value-added advice to clients across various industries.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Tax Compliance: Prepare and review tax returns (income tax, VAT, PAYE, etc.) and ensure compliance with tax laws and regulations.
2. Tax Advisory: Provide clients with practical and actionable tax advice on corporate tax, personal tax, VAT, international taxation, and other related matters.
3. Tax Planning: Assist in the development and implementation of effective tax planning strategies to optimise tax liabilities for clients.
4. Research & Analysis: Stay up-to-date with changes in tax laws and regulations and provide analysis of their implications on clients.
5. Client Liaison: Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, offering exceptional client service and addressing queries regarding tax matters.
6. Tax Dispute Resolution: Assist clients in resolving disputes with tax authorities, including preparation of documentation and representation if required.
7. Tax Reporting: Assist in preparing tax reports, managing deadlines, and ensuring the quality of tax deliverables.
8. Collaboration: Work closely with other departments (e.g., audit, accounting) to ensure integrated solutions and advice are provided to clients.

Key Requirements:

1. Education: A relevant undergraduate degree (e.g., BCom in Taxation, Accounting, or Finance). A professional qualification (e.g., SAICA, SAIT, or equivalent).
2. Experience: Minimum of 2-4 years of experience in tax compliance and advisory within an accounting or auditing firm. Exposure to both corporate and individual tax matters is advantageous.
3. Skills: Strong knowledge of South African tax laws and regulations (or relevant country if outside South Africa). Proficiency in tax software and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint). Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills. Good communication skills, both written and verbal. Ability to manage multiple clients and projects simultaneously. Detail-oriented with a strong focus on accuracy.
4. Personal Attributes: Strong client service orientation. High level of professionalism and integrity. Ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Proactive and self-motivated with the ability to work under pressure.
5. Desirable: Experience in international tax issues or cross-border taxation. Advanced tax qualifications (e.g., CTA, LLM in Tax). Fluent in English and/or Afrikaans.