Aston University
Head of Tax
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Head of Tax
Tax Advisory
Location: Aston University John Cadbury House
Salary: £71,566 to £87,971 per annum
Grade: Grade 10
Contract Type: Permanent
Basis: Full-Time
Closing Date: 23.59 hours BST on Thursday 27 August 2026
Interview Date: Monday 14 September 2026
Reference: 1137-26
Aston University is seeking an experienced and strategic Head of Tax to lead all aspects of the University's tax function and support delivery of the Aston 2030 Strategy. Reporting to the Executive Director of Finance, you will provide expert leadership across VAT, corporate tax, employment tax and international tax matters.
This is a senior leadership role with significant influence across the University. You will develop and implement the University's tax strategy, ensure compliance with UK and international tax requirements, advise on major projects and commercial activities, and lead relationships with HMRC and external advisors.
You will be a qualified tax professional (ideally CTA) or have equivalent experience, with a strong track record of providing tax advice in a large and complex organisation or professional practice. Experience in VAT and indirect taxation is essential, together with excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and implement Aston University's tax strategy, ensuring it supports the University's long-term ambitions and evolving activities.
- Provide expert advice on tax risk, compliance and opportunities to support informed decision-making across the organisation.
- Ensure compliance with VAT, corporation tax, employment tax and international tax obligations, while promoting best practice and effective controls.
- Support major UK and international projects, providing strategic tax advice from planning through to delivery.
- Lead relationships with HMRC and other tax authorities, acting as the University's principal tax contact.
- Build tax awareness and strong tax governance across the University, helping colleagues understand and manage tax considerations effectively.
- Lead and develop the tax function, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team environment.
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This is a rare opportunity to shape the tax strategy of an ambitious and growing university, working closely with senior leaders and contributing to key strategic initiatives that support Aston's future success.
What we offer:
- Aston University is a vibrant campus located within Birmingham city centre, which has excellent transport links via bus or train.
- Hybrid working is possible for this role, which means working both on campus and from home depending on the activity. Further information on hybrid working can be found on our website.
- Excellent training and development opportunities.
- A generous annual leave scheme with 30 days’ bookable leave and a further 13 days of bank holiday and University closure days.
- Everyday discounts to a number of activities and retailers.
- Great family-friendly policies.
- On-site gym and pool with discounted staff membership available.
- USS pension scheme worth over 20% of your salary (6.1% contribution and 14.5% Aston University contribution).
Further information on our Benefits and Rewards can be found on our website.
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Craig Jones.
Please note, interviews for the role will take place the week commencing 14th September 2026.
This role may meet the requirements for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. If you require sponsorship, Aston University will assess eligibility if you are shortlisted for the role. Please note we are unable to confirm individual eligibility before shortlisting. See the UK government website for more information on Skilled Worker visa eligibility.
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Further details:
Anonymous shortlisting will be carried out for this role as part of Aston University’s commitment to equality and diversity and ensuring a fair and consistent approach to recruitment. Personal details that are included on application forms, including the candidate’s name and address, will not be disclosed to the shortlisting panel. CVs will not be considered as part of the shortlisting process.
The University celebrates the rights of freedom of speech and academic freedom and is committed to maintaining and protecting these rights within the law. An offer to work at Aston University will never be denied on the basis of an individual’s lawful expression of their beliefs, ideas or opinions.
Aston University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. It promotes equality and diversity in all aspects of its work. We strive to have robust inclusivity strategies in place, to encourage colleagues to have the confidence and freedom to be themselves in the workplace. For more information, visit our website.
Guidance on AI-Assisted Applications
While we cannot prevent applicants from using AI tools to support their application, we ask that all submissions reflect your own experience, achievements, and motivations. We want to understand what you personally bring to the role, so please ensure your application represents your own voice and capabilities.
We recognise the value of flexible working. Please contact the recruiting manager to discuss what flexible working options are available for particular roles.
If you require the job details document or an application form in an alternative format, please contact the recruitment team.
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