Senior Tax Manager - 18 Month Maternity Cover - SearcHive Limited : Job Details

Location: Milton Keynes (Hybrid – 1 day a week in-office)

Contract: 18-Month Fixed Term Contract – Maternity Cover

Team: Managing 2 direct reports

Sector: Retail / Hospitality

Recruitment Partner: SearcHive, on behalf of our client

SearcHive is partnering with a leading retail and hospitality group to appoint an experienced Senior Tax Manager for an 18-month maternity cover contract. This is a key leadership role overseeing all UK and Ireland tax matters, with line management responsibility for two team members.

The position is based in Milton Keynes and offers a flexible hybrid model, with just one day per week required in the office.

You will take ownership of direct and indirect tax operations across the UK and Ireland. From compliance and reporting to supporting business strategy and transformation, this is a broad and impactful role for a tax leader who thrives in fast-paced, consumer-focused environments.

You will work closely with senior finance and commercial stakeholders while mentoring a capable in-house tax team.

• Lead all tax matters across the UK and Ireland, including corporate tax, VAT, employment tax, and other local obligations
• Manage, develop, and support two direct reports
• Ensure all statutory tax filings and compliance deadlines are met
• Oversee tax reporting processes for monthly, quarterly, and year-end close
• Act as the primary point of contact for HMRC and Irish Revenue
• Provide proactive advice on tax aspects of business projects and transactions
• Monitor changes in legislation and assess business impact
• Liaise with external advisors and manage audit processes

Essential:

• CTA / ACA / ACCA or equivalent qualified
• Strong experience in UK corporate tax (Ireland exposure desirable)
• Experience managing or mentoring tax professionals
• Confident advising senior stakeholders and operating independently
• Strong working knowledge of VAT and tax compliance processes

Desirable:

• Industry experience in retail, hospitality, or consumer sectors
• Experience working within a matrixed or multi-entity group

• 18-month contract with competitive day rate or fixed salary (dependent on experience)
• Flexible hybrid model (1 day per week in Milton Keynes office)
• Opportunity to lead a strategic tax function for a major UK business
• Work with a dynamic and commercial finance team during a period of transformation