Assistant VAT Manager

Purpose of the Job

Primary objective of the candidate shall be to oversee and manage the indirect tax operations focused on tax strategy, compliance, and audit in the countries in which Al Naboodah Group operates. The role ensures full alignment with the applicable indirect tax laws, accurate tax reporting, and risk mitigation.

• Manage VAT compliance across the jurisdictions, including registrations, de-registrations, return filings, payments, refunds, and clarification requests.
• Analyse and interpret VAT law to provide guidance on business transactions and cross-border operations.
• Manage and implement tax planning strategies effectively to optimize tax positions while ensuring legal compliance.
• Collaborate with finance, legal, and operational teams to ensure correct VAT treatment on all business transactions.
• Monitor legislative and regulatory developments and assist in evaluating their potential impact on the organization.

• Ensure timely and accurate preparation, filing, and reconciliation of VAT returns in accordance with applicable VAT regulations.
• Review VAT treatment of domestic and international transactions, including imports, exports, and intercompany supplies.
• Review tax invoices and documentation to ensure compliance with the applicable VAT regulations.
• Maintain robust documentation to support input VAT claims and zero-rated supplies.
• Assist in implementation of e-invoicing and other indirect tax related initiatives.
• Identify and ideate tax optimisation opportunities to create value for the Group through closely monitoring changes in tax legislation.
• Provide VAT trainings and necessary support to finance and non-finance personnel in the Group.
• Manage VAT audits and liaise with tax authorities effectively and keep internal stakeholders appraised appropriately.
• Develop and maintain documented processes, policies, and procedures related to taxation and financial operations.

• Manage deadlines independently, with high accuracy and integrity.
• Mentor and support junior tax staff and build internal tax capabilities.
• Perform other ad hoc administrative or strategic duties as assigned by Line Manager or Senior Management.

• Professional accounting qualification (CA, CPA, ACCA, or equivalent)
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Taxation, or a related field

• Minimum 7 years of similar experience. Having worked in Big 4 or a tax environment managing indirect tax operational and audit matters for diversified businesses will be an advantage.

• Good practical and technical tax knowledge in indirect taxes including VAT and strong understanding of global trends such as e-invoicing etc.,

• Proficiency in MS Office, ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, etc.), and tax software.

• Able to work as part of a team and under pressure, handle multiple tasks and meet required deadlines.
• Analytical mindset, problem-solving skills, excellent communication, and stakeholder management.

• Experience in accounting concepts and tax regulations, laws and standards.