Description:
Join the Azenta Finance Team supporting the SMS entities in Europe, working with a global team of professionals and be responsible for ensuring VAT compliance, preparing and submitting VAT returns, conducting VAT reconciliations, and advising on VAT-related matters. This role requires a deep understanding of VAT regulations, strong analytical skills and the ability to work collaboratively across departments.
You will work with a global team and will be exposed to senior management as you develop knowledge about key business issues and support new initiatives. Grow personally and professionally while building a network within the life sciences industry!
The position is based in Manchester and reports to the Senior Accounting Manager for the European Region.
What You’ll Do...
- VAT Compliance & Reporting
- Prepare and submit accurate VAT returns in a timely manner.
- Ensure compliance with local and international VAT regulations.
- Maintain proper documentation and records for VAT audits and inspections.
- Reconcile VAT accounts and resolve any discrepancies.
- Advisory & Risk Management
- Provide guidance on VAT implication for business transactions.
- Assess risks related to VAT and propose corrective measures.
- Liaise with tax authorities and external auditors on VAT-related matters.
- Process Improvement & Reporting
- Review and improve VAT processes to enhance efficiency.
- Keep up to date with changes in VAT legislation and inform stakeholders.
- Prepare reports and analysis on VAT compliance and financial impact.
- Collaboration and support
- Work closely with finance, procurement and operations teams to ensure accurate VAT treatment.
- Support month end and year end closing activities related to VAT.
- Work closely with IT to ensure proper VAT set up in the system and pint of reference for any implementation projects involving the VAT ledger.
- Key user for the Oracle Cloud VAT ledger to ensure proper maintenance and set up.
- Run and maintain lease accounting process.
- Ensure accounting documentation (Guidelines, SOP) are complete and up to date.
- Drive a culture of continuous improvement.
What You’ll Bring…
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance or related field. Professional certification preferred.
- ACA or ACCA qualification.
- Minimum 5 years of experience in VAT accounting and compliance.
- Strong knowledge of European VAT laws and regulations.
- Experience with major ERP (Oracle Cloud preferred).
- Strong interpersonal skills with a proven record of successful collaboration with team members and stakeholders.
- Strong process focus & improvement mindset; Six Sigma and/or Lean trained a plus; strong project management skills.
- Excellent communication skills and ability to multi-task in complex and dynamic environments.
- Experience working at a global company in a SOX compliant environment is preferred.
- Demonstrate sound work ethic, respect and cultural sensitivity and awareness.
- Strong analytical/problem solving skills.
- Detail-oriented with the ability to work independently to meet deadlines.
- A sense of urgency and self-motivation, with a personal commitment to meeting deadlines.
- Effective time management, organizational and prioritization skills.
- Additional languages (German, French, etc) would be a plus.