Tax Accountant - Watkin Jones : Job Details

Are you a detail-oriented accounting professional with a passion for both technical accounting and tax matters?

Watkin Jones Group is seeking a highly skilled Tax Accountant to join our finance team for a period of 6 months. Based from our office on Chester Business Park this role does offer the opportunity of agile working two to three days a week.

About the Role:

As a key member of the Watkin Jones finance team, the Tax Accountant will be responsible for supporting the Group’s internal and external reporting, ensuring compliance with UK tax regulations, and playing a crucial role in the statutory audit process. Reporting directly to the Group Financial Controller and working closely with the Group Finance Manager, you will have the opportunity to make a significant impact on our financial operations.

Core Responsibilities include:

Reporting:

• Key role in the year-end audit process, including providing technical accounting analysis, leading discussions with audit specialists, and managing information requests.
• Manage areas of technical accounting, including IFRS 15 revenue analysis, IFRS 16 lease accounting, and disclosure reviews.

Corporation Tax Compliance:

• Work with external tax advisors to complete consolidated corporation tax workings for the Group.
• Consolidate the Group tax provision (corporation & deferred tax) and prepare disclosure information for the consolidated group accounts and statutory accounts for subsidiaries.

Other Tax Compliance (including VAT / CIS):

• Manage technical VAT items including irrecoverable VAT, options to tax submissions, and zero-rating analysis.
• Assist with the preparation of UK VAT and CIS returns and other compliance obligations as needed.
• Manage the tax risk register for the Group.

What We’re Looking For:

We’re looking for someone who offers a strong background in technical accounting and UK tax compliance with experience of listed company reporting, IFRS accounting principles, and corporation tax workings. Experience of taxes within the Construction industry would be desirable.

You’ll need excellent communication skills, with the ability to lead discussions and collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders with a proactive approach to identifying and implementing process improvements.

The role would suit a team player who is also comfortable working independently on complex issues, with the ability to cascade knowledge to the wider team.

Why Choose Watkin Jones Group?

Watkin Jones Group is the UK's leading developer, builder, and manager of residential-for-rent homes, with a rich history dating back to 1791. With 54,000 PBSA beds and BTR units since inception across 254 schemes, we have a proven track record of success. Our operating arm, Fresh, manages over 20,000 units across 58 schemes, representing £3.2bn of assets under management.

Joining us means becoming part of a company that’s not only deeply rooted in history but also firmly focused on the future. We’re committed to creating high-quality rental homes, fostering vibrant communities, and driving sustainable development.

At Watkin Jones, we believe in investing in our people. Here’s what we can offer you:

• Professional Growth: In-house Learning & Development team for your career advancement.
• Rewards: Discretionary annual bonus, health cash plan, and life insurance.
• Work-Life Balance: 25 days of annual leave (increasing with tenure), agile working arrangements, and discounted gym memberships.
• Benefits: Exclusive shopping discounts, and a contributory pension scheme.