Senior Accountant – EMEA VAT Specialist

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
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)

Employment type
Full-time

Work arrangement
No