Tax Manager

The job based in United Arab Emirates

Job Purpose / Summary

The Tax Manager is responsible for leading the tax function by providing strategic guidance, ensuring compliance with tax laws and regulations, and developing tax planning strategies that minimize liabilities while optimizing tax benefits.

The role involves overseeing tax compliance and reporting, conducting research on tax laws, and providing technical guidance across the organization. The Tax Manager will also collaborate with cross-functional teams, including finance, accounting, and legal, to align tax strategies with business objectives.

Additionally, the role includes managing tax risks, handling audits, and leading a team of tax professionals to enhance organizational tax efficiency and compliance.

Key Responsibilities & Accountabilities

1. Tax Planning and Strategy (30%)

• Develop and implement tax planning strategies to minimize tax liabilities and optimize tax benefits.
• Identify and capitalize on tax-saving opportunities in collaboration with cross-functional teams.
• Provide proactive advice on tax implications for business decisions, transactions, and investments.

2. Tax Compliance and Reporting (25%)

• Ensure accurate and timely preparation, filing, and submission of tax returns in compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Oversee tax audits, appeals, and controversy resolution processes, ensuring all tax-related issues are handled effectively.
• Monitor changes in tax laws and regulations and implement necessary adjustments to maintain compliance.

3. Tax Research and Technical Guidance (20%)

• Conduct in-depth tax research and provide technical guidance on evolving tax laws, regulations, and company policies.
• Develop and maintain tax policies, procedures, and documentation to ensure consistency and compliance across the organization.
• Support business units by providing technical advice on tax matters, including corporate tax, VAT, and international tax considerations.

4. Leadership and Collaboration (15%)

• Lead and manage a team of tax professionals, providing guidance, coaching, and opportunities for professional development.
• Work closely with finance, accounting, legal, and other departments to ensure tax strategies align with overall business goals.
• Represent the company in discussions with external tax advisors, auditors, and regulatory authorities.

5. Risk Management and Audit (10%)

• Identify, assess, and mitigate tax risks, including those related to audits and tax controversies.
• Oversee the tax audit process and manage relationships with tax authorities to ensure smooth resolution of tax disputes.
• Implement internal controls and best practices to minimize tax-related risks and ensure compliance with internal policies.

Qualifications, Experience & Competencies

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Commerce, Accountancy, Finance, or a related discipline.
• Master's degree in Taxation, Finance, or Business Administration is preferred.
• Professional certification such as CA (Chartered Accountant), CPA (Certified Public Accountant), or ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) is mandatory.

Minimum Experience

• Around 8 to 10 years of experience in tax management, tax compliance, or financial taxation.
• Around 3 to 5 years of experience in a supervisory or managerial role, preferably in tax-related functions, overseeing tax planning, audits, and compliance.

Job-Specific Competencies

1. Accounting Software: Proficiency in accounting software such as SAP, Oracle, or QuickBooks for managing financial records and tax reporting.
2. Microsoft Office: Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint for financial modelling, documentation, and presentation.
3. Database Management: Familiarity with database management systems such as Access or SQL to analyse and manage financial data effectively.
4. Analytical Skills: Ability to analyse complex financial and tax data with attention to detail to ensure accuracy and compliance.
5. Tax Laws and Regulations: In-depth knowledge of federal, state, and local tax laws, regulations, and guidelines to ensure compliance and minimise tax liabilities.
6. Tax Planning and Strategy: Understanding of tax planning strategies, including income tax, estate tax, and gift tax planning, to optimise tax benefits.
7. Tax Compliance and Reporting: Expertise in tax compliance, including tax return preparation, audits, appeals, and controversy resolution.
8. UAE Tax and International Standards: Strong knowledge of UAE Tax Laws, OECD Transfer Pricing Guidelines, and IFRS tax treatment to ensure compliance with local and international tax regulations.
9. Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills to convey complex tax concepts clearly to non-tax professionals.
10. Analytical and Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities to assess tax issues, identify risks, and develop effective solutions.
11. Leadership and Management: Proven leadership skills to lead, mentor, and motivate a team of tax professionals while driving strategic initiatives.
12. Time Management and Organisation: Strong organisational skills to prioritise tasks, manage deadlines, and handle multiple projects efficiently.