Associate Manager - VAT

Job description:

Purpose of the Job

The role will support indirect tax compliance activities across GCC jurisdictions while assisting local finance teams and business stakeholders in managing VAT-related obligations, assessing compliance risks, and ensuring adherence to evolving tax regulations.

The successful candidate will play a key role in supporting VAT reporting, reconciliation, audits, and advisory activities while collaborating with local stations and cross-functional teams to strengthen tax controls and mitigate indirect tax risks.

Job Description

VAT Compliance & Reporting

• Support the preparation, review, and submission of periodic VAT returns across GCC jurisdictions, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Oman.
• Ensure the timely and accurate preparation of VAT calculations, reconciliations, and supporting schedules.
• Review VAT transactions and assist in identifying potential compliance gaps, reporting issues, and process improvement opportunities.
• Reconcile VAT balances against accounting records, including VAT, revenue, and expense general ledger accounts.
• Support the validation and monitoring of input VAT recovery and input tax credit mechanisms.

Compliance Risk Assessment & Controls

• Assist in assessing VAT compliance risks across local stations and business operations.
• Support the implementation and monitoring of internal controls to improve VAT compliance and reduce exposure to tax risks.
• Review business transactions from a VAT perspective and escalate potential risks or compliance concerns where required.
• Assist local finance teams in addressing VAT-related operational and compliance challenges.

Tax Advisory & Stakeholder Support

• Provide first-level support on VAT and indirect tax queries from local stations and business stakeholders.
• Support the interpretation and application of GCC VAT legislation and regulatory updates.
• Assist in evaluating the VAT implications of business activities, transactions, and operational processes.
• Collaborate with Finance, Procurement, Commercial, Operations, and IT teams to ensure accurate VAT treatment and compliance.

Audit & Regulatory Support

• Support VAT audits, tax authority reviews, and internal audit requirements by preparing documentation and reconciliations.
• Compile and analyze information requested by tax authorities and external advisors.
• Assist in the preparation of annual VAT reconciliations and compliance reviews.

International VAT & Continuous Improvement

• Develop and maintain knowledge of international VAT and indirect tax principles, including cross-border transactions, place-of-supply rules, and reverse charge mechanisms.
• Support tax process improvement and automation initiatives aimed at enhancing VAT compliance and reporting efficiency.
• Monitor emerging indirect tax developments and assist in evaluating their impact on business operations.

Job Requirements - Experience and Education

• Qualified CA, ACCA, CPA, or equivalent (a must)
• 5-7 years of experience in VAT, indirect taxation, or tax compliance, preferably within a multinational organization, shared services environment, or tax consulting firm.
• Hands-on experience with GCC or International VAT compliance requirements and reporting processes.
• Experience working with SAP or other ERP systems is preferred.
• Exposure to indirect tax regulations outside the GCC region would be an advantage.
• Knowledge of e-invoicing requirements and digital tax compliance frameworks is desirable.
• Strong knowledge of indirect taxation and tax compliance processes.
• Advanced MS Excel skills with strong analytical capabilities.
• Ability to interpret and review legal, contractual, and tax-related documentation.

Leadership Behaviors Building Outstanding Teams Setting a clear direction Simplification Collaborate & break silos Execution & Accountability Growth mindset Innovation Inclusion External focus Skills Attention To Details Communication Skills Cross-Functional Collaboration Financial Acumen Financial Reporting Presentation Skills Stakeholder Management Management Reporting Problem Solving And Critical Thinking Business Priorities

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