VAT Accountant

Your new company Bristol based business Your new role We're looking for a high-calibre General Ledger Accountant with strong UK VAT expertise to join a growing finance function and play a key role in building and shaping VAT and tax processes from the ground up.

This is a unique opportunity for a technically strong, hands-on accountant who wants to go beyond traditional GL responsibilities and take real ownership of VAT, payroll taxes, and compliance frameworks within a supportive team environment.

This position combines core general ledger ownership with a clear focus on UK VAT and tax compliance, giving you the scope to influence, design, and improve processes.

You'll take responsibility for either one larger UK entity or multiple smaller sites, while having dedicated capacity to lead VAT and tax-related activities.

Working closely with internal stakeholders, you will act as the go-to expert for VAT matters, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities Own and maintain accurate General Ledger accounts across assigned entities Deliver balance sheet reconciliations, investigate variances, and resolve issues proactively Provide financial analysis and insight to stakeholders across the business Prepare and review UK VAT returns (including PIVA, reverse charge, EC transactions, and group returns) Lead VAT process development, from reconciliation through to HMRC submission Manage VAT coding and configuration within SAP, ensuring accuracy and compliance Act as the main point of contact for HMRC queries, audits, and inspections Support employment tax compliance, including P11D and PSA submissions Contribute to building robust, scalable tax and compliance processes What you'll need to succeed This is not a standard GL Accountant role - we are specifically seeking someone with deep, practical VAT expertise who can bring structure and leadership to this area.

Strong UK VAT experience is essential, including:
End-to-end VAT processes (reconciliation ? submission ? audit support) Ability to interpret complex VAT rules and apply them in a commercial environment Confidence dealing with HMRC and tax audits Proven General Ledger experience (5 years) in a corporate or multi-entity environment Solid understanding of UK GAAP and/or IFRS Minimum part-qualified (ACCA, ACA, or CIMA) Strong communication skills, with the ability to explain VAT/tax matters clearly to non-finance stakeholders What you'll get in return Flexible working options available.

Health & wellbeing support - private medical cover plus access to wellbeing resources. On-site convenience - free parking and a subsidised canteen. Financial benefits - pension scheme, reward/discount platform and relevant allowances. Workplace community - regular staff social events and engagement activities. Professional support - structured processes, clear responsibilities and cross-functional exposure. Stable, global environment - part of a large, international organisation with strong governance and career pathways.

What you need to do now If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career. INDHAF Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers.

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