Head of Tax

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.

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 here.
• 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 here.

For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Craig Jones at craig.jones@aston.ac.uk

Please note interviews for the role will take place 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 here for more information on Skilled Worker visa eligibility: https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa

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