Group VAT Accountant

Robertson Bell is exclusively partnering with the British Medical Association (BMA) in their search for a Group VAT Accountant to join their team on a permanent basis. The BMA is the trade union and professional body for doctors in the UK.  They represent, support and negotiate on behalf of all UK doctors and medical students.

Reporting into the Group Financial Controller, the Group VAT Accountant will be responsible for ensuring that the BMA Group (BMA and BMJPG) properly accounts for VAT and meets their statutory return, including overseas equivalents. You will proactively ensure that the finance systems and internal processes across the group are compliant and will manage relationships with external advisors and HMRC, as the organisation’s VAT Subject Matter Expert.

The organisation:

Founded in 1832 as a member-run and led organisation, the BMA champions the rights and interests of the medical profession, negotiates doctors' contracts, and advocates for public health improvements. As of August 2024, the BMA boasted a record-breaking membership of over 195,000.

Beyond national representation, the BMA is expanding its international reach by supporting global health initiatives, such as the Health Information for All (HIFA) campaign, which aims to provide accessible healthcare information worldwide. Through these efforts, the BMA continues to influence healthcare policy both within the UK and globally, and this Group VAT Accountant will be critical to supporting the continued development of their international reach.

The key duties of the role are as follows:

• Responsible for submission of accurate and timely statutory VAT returns (and international equivalents) for the Group.
• Prepare balance sheet reconciliations on a regular basis that supports the VAT return submission.
• Undertake annual reviews of the VAT position, including any exemptions applied during the year.
• Proactively ensure that the finance systems and internal processes across the Group are compliant with the required tax legislation and remain alert to any future changes.
• Proactively manage the relationship with external advisors and HMRC.
• Liaise with Group Auditors, providing support and information for financial audits, preparation of financial statements and other requests.
• Compile and communicate appropriate tax guidance and training wherever needed within the group, liaising with external advisors as necessary.
• Provide non-finance managers with insight, creativity and support whilst new business proposals are developed for proposed new income streams

To be successful as a Group VAT Accountant you'll ideally have:

• Accounting Qualification (CCAB) (essential)
• Significant experience in VAT within a commercial organisation (essential)
• Previous experience of working in a VAT compliance role (essential)
• Knowledge of applying VAT law and how it affects corporations.
• Knowledge and understanding of UK, EU and global VAT compliance issues
• Good relationship building and management skills
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• High attention to detail, accuracy and data analysis skills

The deadline for applications is on Sunday 22^nd June, with first stage interviews due to take place the week commencing 7^th July. Applications will be under continuous review before this closing date so please do not delay in applying.

Join the BMA at a crucial time for doctors and the NHS and be part of a team working for better pay and conditions for the profession!