How to get a job in indirect tax
Indirect tax is a fast-evolving and intellectually stimulating area of finance that offers a wide range of career opportunities. As businesses navigate increasingly complex tax regulations across the UK, EMEA, and globally, the demand for skilled tax professionals continues to grow. Whether you’re a graduate, a career switcher, or an experienced accountant, a career in indirect taxation can be both rewarding and diverse.
What is indirect tax?
Indirect tax refers to taxes collected by an intermediary (such as a retailer or service provider) from the person who ultimately bears the cost—the consumer. These taxes are not paid directly to the government by the individual or business but are included in the price of goods and services.
Common types of indirect tax include:
- Value-added tax (VAT) – a consumption tax applied at each stage of the supply chain
- Goods and services tax (GST) – similar to VAT, used in countries like Australia and Canada
- Excise duties – taxes on specific goods such as alcohol, tobacco, and fuel
- Customs duties – taxes on imports and exports
- Environmental taxes – designed to encourage sustainable practices
Why choose a career in indirect tax?
A career in indirect tax offers a unique blend of legal, financial, and commercial challenges. It’s ideal for those who enjoy problem solving, working with data, and interpreting legislation. With the rise of tax technology, digital reporting, and global compliance requirements, the field is expanding rapidly.
Professionals in this area are highly sought after in both in-house tax teams and professional services firms, particularly in financial hubs such as London, Manchester, and Leeds.
Career paths and job titles
There are many roles available in indirect tax, each offering different responsibilities and progression opportunities. Common job titles include:
- Tax assistant – supports compliance and administrative tasks
- Tax analyst / tax accountant– focuses on data analysis, reporting, and tax returns
- VAT specialist – provides expertise in VAT compliance and planning across multiple jurisdictions
- Assistant manager / indirect tax manager – manages projects, junior staff, and client relationships
- VAT manager / indirect tax senior manager – oversees complex advisory and compliance work, often across EMEA
- Indirect tax director / head of indirect tax – senior leadership roles responsible for setting tax strategy and managing the indirect tax team
- Indirect tax technology – growing area with automation, process improvements and driving efficiency within
- Tax consultant / tax advisor – offers expert advice on international tax, corporate tax, and indirect taxation
Skills employers are looking for
To succeed in indirect tax, you’ll need a combination of technical knowledge, analytical ability, and interpersonal skills. Key competencies include:
- Analytical thinking – interpreting complex legislation and applying it to real-world scenarios
- Attention to detail – accuracy is essential in preparing tax returns and ensuring compliance
- Communication skills – explaining technical tax issues to non-specialists
- Commercial awareness – understanding how tax impacts business operations and strategy
- Technical proficiency – familiarity with ERP systems (e.g. SAP, Oracle), tax technology platforms (e.g. Vertex, Avalara), and data tools like Excel or Power BI
- Project management – managing multiple clients or projects simultaneously
- Adaptability – staying up to date with changing tax laws and digital reporting requirements
Work environment and benefits
Many roles in indirect tax are full-time and offer hybrid working or flexible working arrangements. This is especially common in larger firms and multinational corporations. Salaries are typically quoted per annum and vary depending on experience, location, and sector.
How to get started in indirect tax
f you’re new to the field or looking to transition into indirect tax, here are some practical steps to help you get started:
1. Gain relevant qualifications: Pursuing a professional qualification such as the Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA), Association of Taxation Technicians (ATT), or Certified Public Accountant (CPA) can significantly enhance your employability.
2. Apply for entry-level roles: Look for apprenticeships, internships, graduate schemes, or junior roles in accountancy firms, in-house tax departments, or financial services firms. These roles provide hands-on experience and often lead to permanent positions.
3. Build your network: Attend industry events, join professional bodies, and connect with tax professionals on LinkedIn. Networking can lead to mentorship opportunities and job referrals.
4. Stay informed: Subscribe to tax newsletters, follow updates from HMRC, and read industry publications. Demonstrating up-to-date knowledge in interviews can set you apart from other candidates.
5. Tailor your CV and applications: Use keywords from job descriptions—such as “indirect tax compliance,” “VAT manager,” or “tax specialist”—to align your CV with employer expectations. Highlight relevant skills such as data analysis, legal research, or client service.
In-house vs professional services
Both in-house and professional services firm roles offer unique benefits:
- In-house: You’ll work closely with business units, focusing on internal compliance, planning, and strategy. These roles often offer better work-life balance and deeper involvement in business operations.
- Professional services firms: You’ll gain exposure to a wide range of clients and industries, often working on high-profile projects. These roles are ideal for rapid skill development and career progression.
Opportunities across EMEA and beyond
The EMEA region is a hotspot for indirect tax jobs, particularly in cities like London, Dublin, Amsterdam, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Bristol and Leeds. With the increasing complexity of international tax regulations and digital compliance requirements, professionals with cross-border experience are in high demand.
How Brewer Morris can help you source an indirect tax job
A career in indirect taxation is both challenging and rewarding. Whether you’re aiming to become a tax consultant, indirect tax senior manager, or eventually the head of indirect tax, the field offers clear progression paths, competitive salaries, and the chance to make a real impact on business strategy.
If you’re ready to explore a new role in indirect tax, now is a great time to take the next step. Whether you’re looking for a position in Leeds, across EMEA, or globally, the market is full of opportunities for motivated and skilled professionals.
Alternatively, if you are looking to hire an indirect tax professional for your business, please submit a brief and a member of our team will be in touch.
