Tax Manager

Tax Manager job description

A senior tax leadership role that combines compliance oversight with strategic tax planning, the Tax Manager ensures organisations meet regulatory obligations while optimising their tax position. Experienced tax managers are in high demand, especially in sectors facing complex regulatory and reporting requirements.

What is tax management?

Tax management covers the strategic oversight of an organisation’s tax activities. Tax Managers are responsible for overseeing tax compliance, driving tax planning initiatives, and managing risk. This includes direct and indirect tax, international structuring, and working closely with auditors and HMRC. The role also involves advising leadership on the tax impact of business decisions.

Key responsibilities

Lead the preparation and review of corporate tax returns and filings

Manage VAT, PAYE, and other indirect tax compliance

Develop and implement tax planning strategies to improve efficiency

Monitor regulatory changes and assess impact on the business

Liaise with HMRC and external advisors

Oversee tax audits and ensure strong internal controls

Background and experience

Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA) or chartered tax adviser (CTA)

Proven experience managing corporate and indirect tax matters

Deep understanding of UK tax legislation and international tax issues

Experience leading teams or managing external advisors

Strong communication and project management skills

Team structure

Tax Managers typically report to the Head of Tax, Finance Director, or CFO, and often lead a small tax team. They work cross-functionally with:

Financial reporting and FP&A teams

Commercial and legal departments

External advisors, auditors, and HMRC

Their role requires alignment with broader business strategy and senior stakeholders.

What makes the role rewarding?

This position offers strategic influence, visibility, and the chance to shape financial outcomes:

Impactful tax planning and cost-saving opportunities

Recognition as a trusted advisor at board level

Exposure to M&A, restructuring, and global tax strategy

Increasing demand for specialist expertise and leadership

Future-focused skills and development

Tax leaders must stay ahead of regulatory shifts and technology trends. Focus areas include:

Tax technology platforms and automation

Global tax compliance and BEPS regulations

ESG-related tax planning

Cross-border structuring and transfer pricing

How industry affects the role

Tax Managers may specialise based on sector needs:

Financial services: Regulatory capital, tax governance, and reporting

Technology and SaaS: Global structuring and R&D reliefs

Retail and logistics: Indirect tax complexity and supply chain considerations

Energy and infrastructure: Capital allowances and international exposure

Role differences by company size

SMEs: Full-spectrum responsibility from compliance to planning

Large corporates: Oversight of specialist teams or regions with strategic planning focus

Sought-after benefits

Experienced tax professionals often seek:

Executive coaching or leadership training

Equity schemes or performance-based bonuses

Flexible or hybrid working

International secondments or cross-border exposure

Career progression

Tax Managers may progress to:

Head of Tax or Group Tax Director

International Tax Lead or Global Tax Director

CFO (especially in global or regulated sectors)

Advisory or partner roles in accountancy or legal firms

Their expertise, leadership, and risk awareness make them highly valuable across industries.

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Salary for Tax Manager

70750 - 91000

25th percentile

70750

The candidate has little or no prior experience in the position and is still developing relevant skills.

50th percentile

80750

The candidate has an average level of experience and has most of the necessary skills.

75th percentile

91000

The candidate has above-average experience, has most or all the necessary skills, and may have specialised qualifications

Projected salaries for related positions

Position title

25th percentile

50th percentile

75th percentile

Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

126250

171750

202000

Group Finance Director

110750

126250

141500

Finance Director

91000

106000

123250

Shared Service Centre Director

91000

111000

131250

Group Financial Controller

80750

101000

121250

Financial Controller

65750

81750

90000

Finance Manager

54500

63000

67000

Group/Financial Reporting Accountant

55500

60500

65750

Qualified Management/Financial Accountant

51500

57250

63500

Director of Audit & Risk

91000

96000

106250

Internal Audit Manager

58500

66000

71500

Internal Auditor

51000

54500

59750

Treasury Manager

66000

74000

79250

Treasury Accountant

53250

57500

61500

Tax Accountant

53250

57500

62750

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