Accountant

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare, review and submit VAT returns
• Provide specialist VAT advice and guidance to departments across the organisation.
• Support service areas in determining the correct VAT treatment of transactions and activities.
• Develop, maintain and update VAT guidance documentation and policies.
• Deliver VAT training and awareness sessions to colleagues across the business.
• Interpret and implement advice from external VAT specialists relating to complex and emerging transactions.
• Lead the completion of the annual Partial Exemption calculation.
• Work with service areas to forecast future Partial Exemption positions and assess the impact of capital projects and transactions.
• Ensure ongoing compliance with VAT legislation and best practice across all areas of the organisation.
• Support and advise on complex VAT matters, including property transactions, agency arrangements and other specialist areas.

About You

• Significant experience in VAT accounting and compliance.
• Strong technical knowledge of UK VAT legislation and its application within complex organisations.
• Experience preparing and submitting VAT returns.
• Detailed understanding of Partial Exemption calculations and associated forecasting.
• Ability to interpret complex VAT guidance and communicate practical solutions to non-finance stakeholders.
• Experience providing VAT advice on property transactions, agency arrangements and other complex VAT issues.
• Excellent analytical, communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong attention to detail and a proactive approach to problem solving.

Desirable

• Experience working within a Local Authority, Public Sector, or Government organisation.
• Knowledge of VAT regulations specifically applicable to Local Authorities.
• Relevant professional accounting or tax qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIPFA, ATT, CTA or equivalent).

What You'll Bring

This role would suit a confident VAT professional who enjoys acting as a trusted advisor, building strong relationships with stakeholders, and delivering practical solutions to complex VAT challenges. You'll be comfortable working independently while collaborating with a wide range of services across the organisation.