Customs and VAT Accountant - #1736194

About the role:

You will be responsible for managing VAT and customs matters, ensuring compliance with local and international tax laws, and assisting in the development of strategic solutions. The ideal candidate will have in-depth knowledge of customs law, UK VAT regulations, strong problem-solving abilities, and the experience to communicate effectively with cross-functional stakeholders such as supply chain, logistics, finance, and legal.

Key Responsibilities:

• Advise internal stakeholders on customs and VAT matters, including cross-border transactions, imports, exports, and international trade compliance.
• Assist with the development, implementation and maintenance of internal customs and VAT procedures to ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations
• Assist in the preparation and submission of VAT returns, customs declarations, and other related documentation.
• Review customs and VAT procedures to ensure compliance with current legislation and identify opportunities for efficiency improvements.
• Monitor customs and VAT law changes and assess their impact on business operations, advising on necessary adjustments.
• Collaborate with finance, legal, and operations teams to integrate customs and VAT compliance into business operations and strategies.
• Provide support in the development and implementation of customs strategies and VAT for operating in multiple jurisdictions.
• Provide training to internal stakeholders on VAT and customs processes, ensuring understanding and adherence to regulations.
• Liaise with customs authorities and other relevant government agencies regarding regulatory changes, import/export clearances, and audits.
  
  

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Law, or a related field (professional qualification such as ACCA, CTA, or equivalent is an advantage).
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in customs management, import/export operations, or international trade and or VAT.
• Strong knowledge of VAT and customs laws, regulations, and compliance requirements, including international trade and cross-border transactions.
• Practical experience with VAT returns, customs declarations, and other related reporting requirements.
• Familiarity with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and tax automation tools is a plus.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships and explain technical concepts in a clear and concise manner.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Outstanding communication skills, with the ability to build relationships with internal teams, customs authorities, and external service providers.
• High attention to detail and organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines effectively.
  
  

Desired Skills:

• Professional certification in VAT, Customs, or Taxation (e.g., CTA, ACCA, or similar).
• Experience working in industries such as manufacturing, logistics. Distribution.
• Knowledge of the EU transition, the Windsor Framework and global VAT and customs frameworks and experience working on Irish VAT regulations.
  
  

Working Environment:

This position is based in Leeds with the option of some days working from home. The role has the potential for occasional travel to client sites or other company offices and offers the opportunity to work within a dynamic, collaborative team environment, providing the chance to enhance your expertise in customs and VAT while working on diverse projects.

Brenntag provides equal employment opportunities to qualified applicants and employees of all backgrounds and identities to create a workplace where difference is valued because it forms a resilient and more innovative organization. We do not discriminate on the basis of age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity, race, religion or belief, parental and family status, or any other protected characteristic. We welcome applications from women, men and non-binary candidates of all ethnicities and socio-economic backgrounds.

Brenntag TA Team