Senior Accountant – EMEA VAT Specialist

Job Description

The Senior Accountant – EMEA VAT Specialist is responsible for managing Value Added Tax (VAT) compliance, reporting, and advisory across multiple EMEA jurisdictions. The role ensures full compliance with local VAT regulations, supports business operations in complex cross-border transactions, and drives process standardization and optimization across the region. The position serves as a key interface between Finance, Tax, and business teams, contributing to accurate statutory reporting and minimizing VAT risk exposure.

Key Responsibilities

A. VAT Compliance & Filing (Multi-country EMEA)

• Prepare, review, and submit periodic VAT returns (monthly/quarterly/annual) across EMEA countries
• Ensure accuracy of VAT reporting in line with local legislation and EU directives
• Manage EC Sales Lists (ESL), Intrastat declarations, and other statutory VAT reporting requirements
• Monitor and ensure timely VAT payments and reconciliations

B. VAT Accounting & Reconciliation

• Perform VAT GL account reconciliation and ensure proper clearing of VAT balances
• Review VAT postings and tax codes in ERP systems (e.g., SAP)
• Support month-end and year-end closing activities related to VAT
• Investigate discrepancies and implement corrective actions

C. Advisory on Cross-border Transactions

• Provide VAT advice on complex business models (e.g., drop shipments, DDP/DAP, consortium structures)
• Assess VAT implications for new business setups and country expansions
• Support structuring of transactions to ensure VAT efficiency and compliance

D. Audit & Tax Authority Interaction

• Act as key contact for VAT audits and queries from tax authorities
• Prepare documentation and support audit responses
• Coordinate with external advisors (e.g., Big4) when required
• Ensure audit trail and documentation meet statutory standards

E. Process Improvement & Internal Controls

• Drive standardization and automation of VAT processes across EMEA
• Strengthen internal controls and compliance frameworks
• Identify risks and implement mitigation actions
• Support internal and external audit reviews

F. Stakeholder Management

• Collaborate with local finance teams across EMEA entities
• Provide VAT training and guidance to non-tax stakeholders (e.g., sales, logistics)
• Work closely with supply chain and legal teams on VAT-related matters

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Tax, or related field
• 5–8+ years of experience in VAT / indirect tax within multinational environments
• Strong exposure to EMEA VAT regimes (EU VAT Directive, local country rules)
• Experience in statutory reporting and audit environments
• Strong knowledge of VAT regulations across multiple EMEA jurisdictions
• Experience with ERP systems (SAP preferred)
• Solid understanding of accounting principles (IFRS / local GAAP)
• Experience with VAT compliance tools or automation solutions is a plus
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities
• High attention to detail (audit-quality mindset)
• Ability to manage multiple jurisdictions and deadlines
• Effective communication with cross-functional stakeholders
• Timely and accurate VAT filings across all assigned countries
• Zero or minimal VAT penalties / compliance issues
• Clean VAT GL accounts with no unexplained balances
• Successful audit outcomes with no significant findings
• Process improvements and efficiency gains (automation, standardization)