Tax Manager in Scotland

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 in Scotland

77000 - 99250

25th percentile

77000

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

50th percentile

88000

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

75th percentile

99250

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)

137500

187250

220250

Group Finance Director

120750

137500

154250

Finance Director

99250

115500

134250

Shared Service Centre Director

99250

121000

143000

Group Financial Controller

88000

110000

132250

Financial Controller

71750

89000

98000

Finance Manager

59500

68750

73000

Group/Financial Reporting Accountant

60500

66000

71750

Qualified Management/Financial Accountant

56250

62500

69250

Director of Audit & Risk

99250

104750

115750

Internal Audit Manager

63750

72000

78000

Internal Auditor

55500

59500

65250

Treasury Manager

72000

80750

86500

Treasury Accountant

58000

62750

67000

Tax Accountant

58000

62750

68500

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