VAT Specialist; Strategic Planning

John & James, Chartered Accountants

full-time

A week ago

Key Responsibilities VAT Policy Support Supports translating VAT policy decisions into operational procedures, workflows, and guidance. Oversees and contributes to drafting VAT manuals, private rulings/clarifications, and public-facing guidance (FAQs, circulars). Monitors international VAT/GST developments and proposes updates to procedures and content. Implementation & Operations Supports the definition and documentation of VAT processes (registration, filing, payments, refunds, appeals) in coordination with process owners ensuring clarity of inputs/outputs, controls, and alignment with strategic and policy frameworks.

Coordinates with Information Systems & Digital Transformation to support the validation of rules, master data, and integrations, escalating technical findings to the VAT Expert or relevant authority for review and final approval. Executes testing scenarios and business-rule validation; logs defects and follows through to resolution. Supports VAT go-live activities and subsequent releases, including readiness checklists and cutover tasks. Compliance & Risk Management Supports establishment of VAT compliance controls (segregation, approvals, audit trails) and risk indicators.

Assists in developing risk-based treatments (nudge letters, targeted education, referrals). Assists in preparing case packs and playbooks for VAT-specific risk themes, providing technical inputs and contextual analysis in coordination with Risk and Audit teams to ensure consistency and strategic alignment. Monitoring & Reporting Collects and analyzes VAT operational and compliance data (e.g., filing timeliness, payment behavior, refund cycles, exception rates) in collaboration with stakeholder departments, consolidating insights to support strategic monitoring and reporting.

Prepares periodic KPI and risk reports with observations and recommended monitoring and corrective actions, ensuring follow-up and accountability for implementation. Contributes to mid-year and year-end reviews of VAT outcomes and improvement plans. Capacity Building & Taxpayer Support Contributes to and supports the delivery of targeted training for internal teams on VAT procedures, system use, and control points, in collaboration with relevant departments.

Delivers targeted training to internal teams on VAT procedures, system use, and control points. Provides technical VAT support on cases; escalates complex matters to the VAT Head/Section Head with options and rationale. Supports awareness materials and campaigns to improve taxpayer understanding and compliance. Stakeholder Collaboration Coordinates with Policy & Legislation, Taxpayer Affairs, Returns & Filing, Revenue, and Compliance functions to align guidance and handoffs.

Works with external stakeholders (as directed) to gather feedback on clarity/usability of VAT processes and materials.

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Taxation, Economics, Finance, or a related field.
• Relevant experience and demonstrated delivery in VAT process, policy, or strategic implementation roles are strongly prioritized.
• Postgraduate qualifications (e.g., Master's in Taxation, Economics, or Public Administration) and professional certifications (e.g., CTA, ACCA, CPA, GCC VAT Diploma) are advantageous.

• 9+ years' experience in VAT/indirect tax across policy support, operations, compliance, or taxpayer services (public sector or similar regulatory environment preferred).
• Hands‑on experience with VAT processes (registration, filing, payments, refunds) and control design.
• Familiarity with GCC VAT frameworks and international VAT/GST models.

• Ability to document processes, business rules, and controls; competent in test planning and execution.
• Strong analytical and reporting skills; comfortable working with VAT datasets and KPIs.
• Proficiency in preparing guidance and operational materials for internal and external audiences.
• Clear written and verbal communication; effective cross‑functional coordination and problem solving.

Job Type: Full-time Pay: QAR5, QAR7,000.00 per month