Group Head of Tax, Bahrain

Job Summary

Manage the tax function of the Group, providing expertise and guidance on all tax-related matters, including future corporation tax. Introduce VAT implementation strategies, playing a significant role in the execution of VAT compliance, planning and internal procedures, in accordance with specific country legislation and the GCC VAT framework. Provide advice on tax exposure in other jurisdictions as required.

Responsibilities & Duties

Reporting to the Group CFO, duties and responsibilities include (but are not limited to):

• Identifying tax risk areas and administering VAT impact and readiness assessments
• Identifying VAT considerations for all Group entities and resolving related issues
• Identifying weaknesses in existing resources and helping to strengthen the unit teams
• Steering discussions on Group structures for VAT
• Minimising tax liabilities through informed application of tax laws and regulations in relevant territories
• Directing the preparation of tax calculations, estimates and tax reports with finance and operating teams
• Managing the tax compliance, tax reporting and tax filing requirements for the Group
• Ensuring timely and accurate filing of all VAT returns
• Establishing appropriate tax systems and processes
• Liaising with tax authorities whenever appropriate
• Assisting in the procurement of requisite tax-related IT systems
• Providing internal tax advice and support on business operations to the Group
• Managing the successful delivery of tax projects, ensuring tax technical excellence
• Engaging regularly with colleagues and delivering appropriate training to employees on tax related topics and procedures, including coaching and educating less experienced colleagues
• Developing a tax team, assisting in the future recruitment of like-minded, quality tax professionals
• Identifying and documenting all tax compliance related issues
• Collaborating with teams to review and advise on tax specific areas within regional and global jurisdictions
• Building an understanding of the GCC Law and its practical application across the member states
• Building a deep understanding of the GCC VAT framework and legislation and its practical application across Group entities
• Updating knowledge regarding pending laws, tax policies, industry changes, trends and best practices, assessing the potential impact of such changes on the Group
• Assessing operational risks and develop risk management strategies
• Supporting periodic internal reviews or audits to monitor compliance with tax procedures
• Consulting with the legal department, as necessary, to address contractual tax considerations
• Preparing the budget in coordination with the Group CFO, monitoring and reporting periodically; providing suggestions for improvement on cost reduction
• Reviewing GCC tax policy and legislation and developing and implementing internal tax administration processes, systems and measures in adherence to regulations

Work Experience

Minimum:
• 10+ years’ of relevant experience
• Fluent in English (written and spoken)
• Broad range of indirect tax experience, with practical operational, implementation and advisory experience specifically in VAT (or equivalent)
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Desire to move into tax role within industry
• Willing to travel across GCC countries where applicable
Preferred:
• 4+ years’ experience in a senior management role
• Experience working for a Big 6 accounting firm is beneficial but not essential
• Demonstrated skills in leadership and management
• Knowledge of complex tax landscapes within different industry sectors is desirable
• Experience setting up a tax function is desirable but not essential
• Commercially astute with strong tax technical skills
• Exposure to international tax laws and regulations; knowledge of GCC market desirable but not essential