VAT Compliance & Advisory Manager

TL;DR

VAT Compliance & Advisory Manager (Finance): Leading the EMEA VAT compliance operations and providing complex tax advisory services with an accent on process automation, change management, and stakeholder engagement. Focus on ensuring regulatory compliance, managing tax audits, and developing high-performing finance teams within a global FTSE 100 environment.

Location: Must be based in or able to commute to Colchester, UK (Hybrid: 3+ days per week in-office).

Company

Informa is a leading international business connecting specialists through live events, digital services, and academic research, operating across 30 countries as a FTSE 100 group.

What you will do

• Oversee EMEA VAT compliance for all legal entities and manage relationships with tax advisors.
• Provide complex VAT advice regarding legislative changes, business developments, and new requirements.
• Lead special projects focused on process improvements, systems automation, and key process testing.
• Manage VAT due diligence for acquisitions, divestments, and product changes.
• Liaise with UK and overseas tax authorities regarding audits and compliance issues.
• Manage, motivate, and develop the VAT team, focusing on performance and soft skill growth.

Requirements

• Professional tax or accounting qualification (e.g., CTA, ACA, or ACCA) required.
• Minimum 6 years of relevant VAT experience.
• Significant experience with SAP, Oracle, and sales order processing systems.
• Proven track record in leadership, coaching, and people development.
• Strong knowledge of tax processes, best practices, and change management.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills for senior stakeholder management.

Culture & Benefits

• Flexible hybrid work policy with the opportunity to work from almost anywhere for up to four weeks per year.
• 25 days annual leave, rising to 27 days after two years, plus birthday leave.
• Company-funded private medical cover and strong wellbeing support.
• ShareMatch scheme allowing employees to become Informa shareholders.
• Access to LinkedIn Learning and bespoke career development training.
• Active diversity and inclusion networks and charity volunteer days.