Overview

We’re looking for a VAT Senior Manager to join us in Bradford/Leeds.

At Liberty Blume, we provide comprehensive VAT compliance and VAT accounting services, ranging from data extraction, preparation and filing of VAT returns through to balance sheet reconciliations and accounting entries, along with advisory services to the business and clients on VAT treatment and implications of transactions.

Our team engages with the appropriate accounting, tax, commercial, legal and treasury colleagues to ensure that our goals are met. We aim to provide services that cover multiple local jurisdictions where the tax rules are complex and VAT obligations differ by territory.

Our Blume VAT team is based in Bradford/Leeds, UK. We work alongside Tax colleagues predominantly located in London, Denver and Amsterdam.

The VAT Senior Manager will be part of the VAT team and will be responsible for leading and managing VAT compliance obligations of the business, the wider group and third-party clients, and delivering high-quality VAT advisory support across the business.

This role will oversee the end-to-end VAT compliance cycle and month-end reporting, manage relationships with tax authorities, ensuring compliance while identifying opportunities for process improvements and risk mitigation.

The role will provide valuable VAT advisory support and technical guidance on complex domestic and cross-border VAT matters, in line with the VAT strategy of the business and its clients.

The role will work with the VAT team to drive system improvements and embrace the use of technology to create a best-in-class VAT service, along with managing the transition of VAT compliance activity into Blume for any future new clients.

What will you be doing?

• Provide technical support and tax advice to clients, the business and wider group on transactions, contracts, projects, strategy, etc.
• Take the lead on project management for clients, such as providing support with VAT audits, HMRC enquiries and disclosures if required.
• Oversee the VAT operations for compliance and reporting activities performed within the VAT compliance team on behalf of its clients.
• Agree delivery requirements with clients and deliver a service in line with those expectations, with a focus on continuous process improvement and efficiency enabled by technology.
• Oversee the complete, accurate and timely preparation and submission of VAT returns together with supporting analysis for client review.
• Oversee the VAT accounting, including VAT return to GL reconciliations, journal preparation and monthly balance sheet reconciliations.
• Maintain processes and drive continuous improvements, including aligning processes with developing digital reporting requirements.
• Operate and ensure controls over VAT reporting processes.
• Drive automation projects to streamline processes.
• Monitor and assess the impact of changes in VAT legislation and case law on the business, advising senior stakeholders accordingly.
• Liaise with key stakeholders to ensure efficient and accurate reporting. Communicate regularly with the business to ensure thorough understanding of reporting requirements and business needs.
• Onboard new operating entities, with potential exposure to non-UK entities, into the VAT compliance process.
• Manage and develop the skills of junior members of the team, providing technical training, coaching and performance feedback.

Essential

We tend to look for people with:

• Professional Accountancy or Tax qualification (ACA, ACCA, CTA etc)
• Extensive experience of working in a VAT Compliance or advisory position
• Experience of VAT return preparation and filings in addition to VAT accounting is essential.
• Strong technical advisory skills and ability to interpret and apply VAT legislation pragmatically.
• Strong Excel and financial systems skills (e.g., Oracle, SAP).
• Strong Presentational skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience of working in a complex environment, delivering to deadlines.
• Ability to research and resolve complex taxation issues.
• Strong managerial skills, a great teammate, and the ability to lead.

What’s in it for you?

• Competitive salary + bonus
• 25 days annual leave with the option to purchase 5 more
• Access to wellbeing and mental health benefits such as the Calm app, personal medical, critical illness cover and dental insurance
• Matched pension contribution up to 10%
• Access to our car benefit scheme
• Access to our online learning platform to continue to develop and grow your career with us
• The chance to join an innovative, fast-paced and passionate team

Who we are

Liberty Blume, a Liberty Global company, is a rapidly growing business services provider, specialising in tech-enabled back-office solutions. Our mission is to deliver efficiency, scale and value to our customers through Business, Procurement and Financial Solutions. If you’re curious, customer centric and enjoy being one step ahead, join us on our scale up journey and unlock your freedom to grow!

Liberty Global is an equal opportunity employer, committed to an inclusive environment and accommodating all candidates. We’re eager to hear from you, no matter your background.

Note: This posting reflects current requirements and responsibilities and may be subject to change.