VAT Compliance Manager. Eastern European Team. Brighton.

In the past, it was common practice for someone to join a firm and stay there for many years. In return, the loyalty was repaid by the business investing in that individual through training, internal progression and by creating a supportive and conducive working environment. 

However, things have changed slightly over the years. Many firms simply approach recruitment on the basis of what they can see you doing for the company. This can lead to a lot of discontentment in teams and a quick turnaround of staff.

This firm understands that recruitment is a two way street. It is a niche tax practice specialising in VAT compliance and advisory services and is a ‘rising star’ on the indirect tax scene. It has a large international client base with a strong European focus. 

The firm has witnessed spectacular rates of growth - about 25% last year. However, the heads of departments have been very careful to ensure their supportive and personal culture that has been maintained. Ideas are discussed freely by every member of the team and the best are implemented to build the business. They also understand the nature of their work is often motivated by sharp deadlines so their employees can count up hours of overtime which can then be taken back during a quieter period. They even put money aside for the teams ‘social budget’ which can be spent on fun evenings and days out. Like I said, the heads of this firm really understand that it’s a two way street!

Your official title here will be ‘Compliance Manager’ within the Eastern European team that covers compliance in Poland, Hungary, Czech Republic and Slovakia . Upon joining, you will be given responsibility over your own portfolio of clients within a specific European country thereby increasing your knowledge of VAT rules in multiple jurisdictions. This will give you a high degree of client interaction in your day to day work but also allow you the opportunity to develop lasting relationships.

In regards to the finer points of your role, you will be responsible for submitting declarations on behalf of your clients such as VAT returns, EC Sales and Interstat. You will have the assistance of compliance assistants in drafting these but you will have to check this work to ensure it meets the high and exacting standards. Furthermore, you will work alongside the senior managers to identify any changes that involve VAT at policy level and ensure your clients are aware of any relevant developments. You will also mentor junior members of the team making sure that they are settled within the team and developing. Finally, as consultancy and compliance are two sides of the same coin, you will work closely with the consultancy team, thereby broadening your knowledge of VAT consultancy matters.

You will have clear and fast progression at this firm. Due to growth and movement in the senior management team, you have a clear runway for a quick succession of promotions within the team. The senior management give credit where credit is due so if you perform well as a compliance manager, you will be promoted to Senior Manager where you will directly manage junior members of the team. Simple!

What will qualify you for the role…

- 2 or more years working with VAT in Poland, Hungary, Czech Republic and Slovakia
- Experience mentoring or managing junior members of the team
- Direct responsibility of dealing with tax authorities in relevant countries