VAT Associate Director/Director

Posting date:	06 February 2026
Hours:	Full time
Closing date:	13 February 2026
Location:	Southampton, Hampshire, SO14 3TL
Remote working:	Hybrid - work remotely up to 2 days per week
Company:	Hays Specialist Recruitment
Job type:	Permanent
Job reference:	4741935_1770369475

Summary

Are you an experienced VAT specialist ready for a role where you can genuinely influence clients, contribute strategically and shape your own career? Our client, a respected national advisory and accountancy firm, is looking for a commercially minded VAT Associate Director or Director to join their established and forward‑thinking Tax team.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys working with ambitious, entrepreneurial businesses - from fast‑growing start-ups and scale-ups to complex, multinational groups operating across borders.

The Opportunity

As a senior figure within the VAT practice, you'll take the lead on delivering high‑level advisory and compliance services across a diverse portfolio. You'll work closely with senior stakeholders, build trusted relationships, and provide pragmatic solutions to often complex indirect tax challenges.

You'll have the autonomy to develop your own approach, influence internal strategy and play a key role in shaping the team as it continues to grow. If you enjoy mentoring others and bringing out the best in your colleagues, you'll be given the platform to do exactly that.

What You'll Be Doing

• Leading a wide range of strategic VAT advisory projects and resolving complex technical issues.
• Managing a significant and varied client portfolio, ensuring first‑class service and compliance.
• Spotting and developing new business opportunities, both within your network and the firm's existing relationships.
• Driving and delivering large‑scale VAT engagements.
• Coaching, developing and supporting junior team members.
• Building strong, long‑lasting client relationships through clear, confident communication.
• Contributing to the development and delivery of the firm's broader tax strategy.

About You

You'll be a proactive, commercially aware VAT specialist who enjoys solving problems and adding real value to clients. You're credible, calm under pressure and comfortable leading both people and projects.

What You'll Need

• CTA and/or ACA (or equivalent) with solid post‑qualification experience.
• Strong, up‑to‑date knowledge of VAT legislation and indirect tax trends.
• A track record of managing a profitable client portfolio.
• Experience leading complex engagements and managing teams.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to influence senior stakeholders.

Why This Firm?

Our client prides themselves on offering a collaborative, flexible and genuinely people‑centred culture. You'll be joining a business where your ideas are welcomed, your development is prioritised and your contribution is recognised.

You can expect:

• A clear pathway for progression at senior level.
• The chance to work on high‑profile, diverse and technically stimulating projects.
• A culture that encourages innovation, teamwork and knowledge sharing.
• Modern, well‑designed collaboration spaces and the tools you need to thrive.

If you're looking for a role with real influence, autonomy and the opportunity to work with exciting, high‑growth businesses, this could be a brilliant next step.

What to Do Next

If you're interested, please click 'apply now' to send an up‑to‑date CV, or feel free to call Lorna Pilling directly on 07900 224915 for a confidential chat.

If this role isn't quite what you're after, but you'd like to explore the market, I'd be happy to help you navigate your next move.

Please note: This role does not offer visa sponsorship. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

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