Why now is the perfect time to search for your next tax job

If you’ve been thinking about making a move in your tax career, now might just be the best time to act. Despite the common belief that hiring slows down during the warmer months, the reality is quite the opposite, especially in the tax sector. Whether you’re in a current role and considering a change, or actively browsing job postings on LinkedIn, this is a great time to explore new opportunities and take control of your job hunt.

1. Summer hiring is real and strategic

Just because people take holidays over the summer months doesn’t mean recruiters and hiring managers stop working. In fact, many firms use this time of the year to get ahead of the curve. Interviews are still being scheduled, job offers are being made, and new hiring budgets are being unlocked.

With less competition from other candidates, your application is more likely to stand out. It’s a perfect time to update your LinkedIn profile and refresh your CV. This time of year is often underestimated, but it’s actually a great time to get noticed.

2. Plan now, start fresh in the autumn

If you begin your new job search now and work a standard three-month notice period, you could be stepping into a new role by early autumn. That gives you the final quarter of the year to:

• get to know your new team and business
• understand systems and processes
• build relationships and credibility

By the new year, you’ll be fully embedded and ready to make a real impact. This sets you up for a strong performance review and potentially a great bonus or promotion after a full 12 months of contribution. It’s a smart move for anyone looking to make 2026 their most successful year yet.

3. In-house and practice markets are thriving

The tax recruitment market remains highly active across both in-house and practice roles. With many firms having recently completed their financial year-end, fresh recruitment budgets are now available. Unlike last year, some employers are even offering upward promotions upon joining, making this a particularly attractive time to explore new opportunities.

Practice market trends

Demand in practice is especially strong, with firms actively hiring across a range of tax specialisms. Key areas of growth include:

• M&A tax (assistant manager to director level)
• Restructuring tax
• Real estate tax
• Corporate tax advisory
• VAT, particularly in financial services and transactional work

This surge in activity is not limited to London. Firms across the UK are expanding their teams. Whether you are looking to join a larger firm or a more specialised boutique, there are exciting roles available nationwide.

In-house market trends

The in-house market is equally buoyant, with companies across sectors seeking tax professionals to support business growth and navigate evolving regulatory landscapes. Opportunities span:

• Corporate tax managers and senior managers
• VAT specialists, especially in retail, tech, and financial services
• Tax reporting and compliance roles
• Advisory-focused positions in multinational groups

In-house roles are offering greater flexibility, hybrid working, and in some cases, faster progression paths than seen in previous years.

4. Seasonal drivers are creating new openings

Several key factors are fuelling the current wave of job openings:

• Mid-year budget reforecasting
• Post-year-end hiring
• Bonus buy-out season
• Strategic business changes
• Preparation for autumn workload peaks

These trends are creating a surge in new hiring, giving candidates more choice and control. With less competition in the market, it’s easier to secure a job interview and negotiate a strong job offer. Many firms are also focused on staffing up now to ensure they’re ready for the busy months ahead.

5. Tech transformation and new skills

Tax is no longer just about compliance. The integration of technology is creating demand for professionals who can:

• analyse data
• implement digital systems
• advise on tech-driven tax strategies

If your current job doesn’t offer exposure to these areas, now is the perfect time to find a new job that does. Many businesses are actively hiring for roles that blend tax expertise with digital transformation. This is also a great time to invest in learning new skills that will keep you competitive in a rapidly evolving market.

6. It’s a candidate’s market

With so much hiring activity across in-house teams and firms, and fewer candidates actively searching, this is a dream time for job seekers. You’ll benefit from:

• more negotiating power
• faster hiring processes
• greater choice across sectors and locations

Whether you’re looking to step up, specialise, or simply find a better fit than your current role, the market is working in your favour. Hiring managers are actively seeking top talent, and they’re moving quickly to secure it.

Final thoughts

The tax job market in 2025 is full of momentum. Summer is not a time to pause your job hunt. Despite the perception of a seasonal slowdown, this is the best time to take action. With fresh budgets, strategic hiring, and a booming practice market, there’s never been a better moment to explore new opportunities.

Start now, transition smoothly in the autumn, and set yourself up for a powerful, productive new year. Whether you’re in-house or in practice, the job opportunities are out there and they’re waiting for you.

If you’re looking for tailored career advice, help refining your LinkedIn profile, or tips on writing a compelling cover letter, now is the time to invest in your next move. And if you are ready to embark on your job search, check out our latest tax jobs.