Tax Consultant

Overview

The VAT Expert is responsible for assisting in the creation and execution of the Authority's Value Added Tax function. Operating under the VAT Head's supervision, this role ensures the effective launch and continued operation of the VAT system through expert technical and operational support.

Key Responsibilities

• Translate VAT policies into well-defined operational procedures and provide oversight for drafting VAT manuals, rulings, and taxpayer guidance documents.
• Keep abreast of global VAT developments and contribute formal feedback for policy revisions.
• Collaborate internally to ensure uniform VAT interpretation and communication across departments.
• Document and define VAT procedures covering registration, filings, payments, refunds, and appeals in partnership with operations teams, ensuring they align with strategic and policy aims.
• Work closely with IT and digital divisions to verify system readiness and data integrity, including participation in system testing and validating business rules.
• Support VAT launches and post-launch system updates.
• Help establish VAT compliance controls and risk management frameworks.
• Assist in developing taxpayer compliance strategies, identifying areas for improvement, and supporting corrective actions.
• Coordinate with audit and enforcement teams to align tasks with strategic goals, offering analytical and procedural insights.
• Gather and analyze VAT data to evaluate compliance and operational success, preparing performance and risk reports for senior review.
• Contribute to comprehensive mid-year and annual evaluations of VAT outcomes.
• Participate in and support training programs to ensure consistent and accurate VAT knowledge dissemination.
• Provide technical VAT advice, escalating complex issues appropriately.
• Support taxpayer awareness campaigns to enhance VAT understanding.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Taxation, Economics, Finance, or related disciplines.
• Master’s degree in Taxation, Economics, or Public Administration is desirable.
• Professional tax or VAT certifications such as CTA, ACCA, CPA, or GCC VAT Diploma are advantageous.

Experience Required

• A minimum of 16 years specializing in VAT or other indirect taxes.
• Direct experience with VAT compliance, operations, or taxpayer services.
• Thorough knowledge of GCC VAT systems and international VAT/GST frameworks.
• Proven involvement in tax reform projects and operational implementations.

Technical and Other Skills

• In-depth understanding of VAT procedures and compliance frameworks.
• Strong analytical capabilities with a talent for interpreting VAT-related data.
• Skillful in creating operational procedures and taxpayer guidance documentation.
• Competent communication and training abilities to clearly convey VAT principles.