Tax Manager – Direct & Indirect Tax | Co-op, Ipswich

Are you a qualified tax professional ready to broaden your expertise across both direct and indirect taxes? The Co-op is seeking a Tax Manager to join our in-house tax team, based in Ipswich in the East of England. This is a hands-on leadership role offering genuine variety and the chance to shape tax strategy within one of the UK's most recognised purpose-led businesses.

About the Co-op

The Co-op is a unique business with over 63,000 colleagues and a clear purpose: Co-operating for a fairer world. Our Finance division supports every part of the organisation, and the tax function plays a critical role in ensuring we meet our obligations while making the most of legitimate planning opportunities. You will be joining a collaborative, values-driven environment where your technical skills and commercial thinking will be highly valued.

The Role

As Tax Manager, you will take ownership of a broad portfolio spanning corporation tax, VAT, employment taxes and indirect tax compliance. Reporting to the Head of Tax, you will manage day-to-day tax operations, lead ad‑hoc projects and act as a key point of contact for internal stakeholders and external advisors. The position is ideal for someone who wants to develop a well‑rounded skill set and progress towards a senior leadership role within a major UK employer.

Key Responsibilities

Manage the preparation and submission of UK corporation tax computations and returns for the Co-op Group, ensuring full compliance with HMRC deadlines and legislation.
Oversee all aspects of VAT compliance, including the completion of partial exemption calculations, returns and the review of capital expenditure VAT recovery.
Provide clear technical advice on employment taxes, including PAYE settlement agreements, share schemes and benefits‑in‑kind reporting.
Support the Head of Tax in developing and implementing indirect tax strategies to minimise the Co-op's overall tax burden while remaining fully compliant.
Lead and mentor a small team of tax officers, setting objectives, conducting regular one‑to‑ones and supporting their professional development.
Build and maintain strong relationships with external auditors, HMRC and third‑party tax advisors, acting as the primary contact for all routine enquiries.
Identify and manage tax risks across the business, preparing detailed reports and recommendations for the Head of Tax and senior leadership.
Drive process improvements within the tax function, including the use of OneSource, CCH or similar tax software to streamline compliance workflows.
Keep up to date with changes in UK tax legislation and case law, assessing their impact on the Co-op and communicating key updates to relevant teams.
Assist with ad‑hoc projects such as corporate restructures, M&A transactions and international tax considerations as required.

Work Environment & Culture

The Co-op operates a flexible hybrid working model. You will typically spend two to three days per week at our Ipswich office, with the remainder working from home. Our Finance team is supportive and inclusive, with a strong emphasis on wellbeing, continuous learning and ethical business practices. You will have access to regular social events, volunteering opportunities and the chance to contribute to the Co-op's social‑impact initiatives.

Requirements

Qualified accountant and/or tax adviser – ACA, ACCA, CTA or equivalent professional qualification.
Minimum of three years' experience in a UK tax role, with demonstrable exposure to both direct and indirect taxes.
Strong technical knowledge of UK corporation tax, VAT and employment tax legislation.
Experience managing or supervising junior team members.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex tax matters to non‑specialist audiences.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and experience with tax compliance software such as OneSource, CCH or equivalent.
Proactive, well‑organised and capable of managing multiple deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.

Desirable Skills

Experience working within a large, multi‑entity group structure.
Familiarity with SAP or Oracle ERP systems.
Knowledge of Making Tax Digital (MTD) requirements and digital filing processes.
Prior experience in the retail, food or wholesale sectors.

Benefits & Compensation

The Co-op offers a competitive salary, benchmarked against the East of England market for a Tax Manager of this scope. In addition, you will receive a comprehensive benefits package including:

Annual performance‑related bonus.
28 days' annual leave plus bank holidays, with the option to buy additional days.
Co‑op pension scheme with generous employer contributions.
Colleague discount card across Co‑op Food, Funeralcare and other businesses.
Private medical insurance and access to an employee assistance programme.
Support for professional study and CPD, including paid study leave.

Career Growth

The Co-op actively supports internal progression. This Tax Manager role is a springboard to more senior positions such as Senior Tax Manager, Head of Tax or broader Finance leadership roles across the Group. You will have access to the Co‑op's internal talent programmes, mentoring opportunities and a dedicated learning budget to help you achieve your career goals.

How to Apply

If you are interested in this opportunity, please reach out directly to Jim Holt via LinkedIn or submit your application through the Co-op careers portal. We aim to respond to all applications within five working days and will arrange an initial video interview for shortlisted candidates. The process will include a technical assessment and a final‑stage panel interview with the Head of Tax and a senior Finance business partner.

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