VAT Manager

Position: VAT Manager (Permanent)
Job Title:

VAT Manager

Location:

Manchester
Salary:
Up to £75,000 (London)

Company Overview:

Our client is a leading UK Top 60 accountancy firm with a differentiated advisory-led proposition, headquartered in Manchester. They have been a trusted name in professional services for over 40 years. Their commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction has positioned them as a premier provider in the market.

Our client does not offer a one-size-fits-all approach. They recognise that, in today’s economic environment, businesses require bespoke support and provide end-to-end services from start-up to exit strategies. Their mantra is: “Good advisers help your business. Great ones transform it.” This forms the foundation of the business.

Role Overview

Our client is seeking a proactive, commercially minded VAT Manager to play a central role within their VAT team. Reporting directly to the VAT Director, the successful candidate will act as the first point of contact for clients, taking ownership of complex VAT matters, managing a diverse portfolio, and building long-term, trusted client relationships.

This is a high-impact position where the VAT Manager will lead on technical advisory work, oversee case management, and confidently represent clients in negotiations and disputes with HMRC. The role involves close collaboration with colleagues across the wider firm to ensure exceptional service delivery and contribute to the continued growth and reputation of the VAT offering.

Key Responsibilities:

Act as the primary VAT contact for an assigned client portfolio, building strong relationships and delivering commercially focused advice
Lead on complex VAT matters, applying legislation, case law, and HMRC guidance to provide clear and strategic solutions
Represent clients in HMRC enquiries and disputes, preparing well-structured technical arguments and defending positions confidently
Maintain responsibility for the quality and accuracy of VAT work, ensuring strong compliance standards and robust audit trails
Identify risks and opportunities early, leading on technically challenging matters and escalating to the VAT Director where appropriate
Contribute to business development activities, engaging with new enquiries, identifying growth opportunities, and supporting cross-referrals across the firm
Lead, mentor, and support junior team members through training, work reviews, and ongoing development
Monitor changes in VAT legislation and HMRC practice, contributing to internal knowledge sharing and external thought leadership
Build effective working relationships with HMRC and external advisors, ensuring communication is professional and aligned with client objectives
Enhance internal VAT processes, maintaining central query logs and supporting knowledge sharing across the team
Provide high-level VAT advisory support to both clients and internal stakeholders, grounded in strong legal and commercial analysis
Lead on ECNs, Pre-Creds, and non-statutory clearance requests, ensuring submissions are technically robust and well evidenced
Engage with senior leadership, providing updates on client matters, risks, and emerging technical issues
Attend networking events, seminars, and industry briefings to strengthen expertise and professional presence
Act as a senior point of contact for DIY House builder Claims, ensuring smooth management and high service standards
Requirements:

Fully qualified accountant (ACCA / CTA / ACA or equivalent) with strong technical grounding in UK VAT legislation, case law, and HMRC processes
Significant hands-on VAT experience gained within an accountancy practice or specialist tax environment
Proven ability to manage and grow client relationships, acting as a trusted advisor and primary point of contact
Demonstrable experience handling HMRC enquiries and disputes, with confidence in defending technical positions
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret legislation and provide clear strategic recommendations
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, able to explain complex VAT matters clearly and effectively
Experience mentoring and developing junior team members
Highly organised with strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple deadlines
Commercial awareness, with the ability to identify opportunities and support the growth of the VAT service line
Proactive approach to continuous professional development and staying current with VAT developments
Collaborative mindset, working effectively with colleagues across tax, audit, accounts, and advisory teams