Why you should consider an interim tax job

In today’s fast-paced, dynamic business world, tax professionals are always in high demand, but the nature of this demand often fluctuates. Many companies face peak periods, special projects, or even sudden transitions that require additional temporary expertise. For those with tax experience, an interim tax job can be an excellent opportunity to not only earn a competitive salary but also broaden your professional horizons.
If you’re considering taking on a temporary role, here are ten reasons why an interim tax job could be a strategic move in your career:
Flexibility and work-life balance
Interim roles often come with more flexible schedules than permanent positions. For tax professionals who value work-life balance, these jobs provide the opportunity to manage personal commitments while earning a salary. Interim jobs may also allow for part-time hours or project-based work, which can help you avoid the long, demanding hours that often come with full-time tax positions, especially during peak tax season.
Diverse Experience
One of the most attractive features of an interim tax role is the ability to gain diverse experience in a short period. As businesses across industries have varying tax needs, interim roles expose you to different types of tax issues, jurisdictions, and regulatory environments. Whether it’s international tax compliance, mergers and acquisitions, or internal audits, interim positions allow you to build a varied skill set, making you more versatile in the market.
Increased earning potential
Interim roles often come with higher hourly or daily rates compared to full-time positions, especially in industries that need specific tax expertise. As companies are typically willing to pay a premium for your experience during busy times or for specific projects, interim tax positions can significantly boost your earning potential in the short term. For tax professionals with a proven track record, interim jobs can also be a pathway to more lucrative positions in the long run.
Networking opportunities
An interim position allows you to work with new teams, clients, and businesses, which can open the door to networking opportunities that may not be available in a traditional full-time role. These connections can be vital for your future career, potentially leading to permanent job offers, referrals, or future freelance work. Plus, working in different companies helps you build a reputation and demonstrate your expertise in various business environments.
Opportunity for specialisation
Some interim tax roles focus on niche areas of tax law, such as international tax, transfer pricing, or VAT. If you’re aiming to develop expertise in a particular area, an interim role might give you the chance to work on specialised projects that will enhance your resume. This type of role allows you to immerse yourself in complex tax issues and increase your qualifications, all while gaining valuable hands-on experience.
Potential for full-time offers
While interim positions are temporary, many employers hire interim professionals to evaluate their performance before offering a full-time role. If you perform well in an interim tax job, you might be offered a permanent position or have the chance to stay on as a contractor. For those looking to transition into a full-time position with a particular company, an interim job serves as a “try before you buy” opportunity, allowing both you and the employer to gauge whether it’s a good fit.
Less bureaucracy and stress
Interim tax jobs often come with fewer long-term obligations and less corporate red tape. With a clear end date and a specific scope of work, you can focus entirely on completing your assigned projects without getting bogged down by internal politics or excessive meetings. This allows you to focus on your core responsibilities, leaving you with a sense of accomplishment once the job is complete.
Opportunity for career transition
If you’re considering a career change or a shift within the tax field, an interim position can provide a smooth transition. Whether you want to move from compliance to consulting, specialise in a different tax area, or work in a different industry, interim roles allow you to test the waters without the pressure of committing to a full-time job. You get to explore a new direction without the long-term commitment, all while keeping your skills sharp.
Work for leading companies
Interim tax professionals often work with top-tier organisations that may otherwise be difficult to access. Many businesses, especially larger ones, use temporary positions to fill gaps during tax season or for special projects, which means you could have the opportunity to work with some of the most well-known companies in the industry. This exposure can be invaluable for your resume and professional growth.
Skill development
With an ever-changing tax landscape, interim tax jobs can offer the opportunity to stay at the forefront of developments in tax law, regulations, and technology. Whether it’s a new tax software, changes in tax legislation, or shifts in industry best practices, an interim role exposes you to new skills and tools that help you stay competitive in the job market.
How Brewer Morris can help you find your next interim tax opportunity
An interim tax job is an excellent choice for professionals looking for flexibility, higher pay, diverse experience, and networking opportunities. It provides a great balance between short-term employment and long-term career growth. If you’re looking to expand your expertise, increase your earning potential, or enjoy a more dynamic work schedule, consider stepping into an interim tax role. It could be the perfect way to take your career to the next level.
If you are looking for a new interim tax opportunity, look at our latest opportunities.
Alternatively, if you are looking to hire an interim tax professional to bridge a gap in your business, please submit a brief and a member of our team will be in touch.