Interim UK Head of Tax

Location: UK | Reporting to: Chief Financial Officer | Function: Finance (Senior Leadership Team)
About the business
Our client is an established UK life and pensions business with a long-term focus on delivering sustainable value for policyholders and shareholders. With a strong track record of acquisitions and integration, the business continues to pursue opportunities that support its strategic objectives.
The role
We're partnering with our client to appoint an Interim Head of Tax to lead the tax function for one of its UK life companies. Reporting to the CFO, you'll own tax governance, regulatory compliance and tax risk management, while providing strategic tax leadership across acquisitions, portfolio transfers and reinsurance arrangements.
Key responsibilities
  • Develop and implement the tax strategy in line with business and Group objectives, advising Executive Management, Board Committees and senior stakeholders.
  • Lead tax input into acquisitions, portfolio transfers, reinsurance and other strategic transactions, and support capital management within risk appetite.
  • Own the Tax Risk Management Framework and ensure Senior Accounting Officer compliance, maintaining effective controls and reporting significant risks to the CFO, Audit Committee and Board.
  • Take accountability for all UK tax compliance — Corporation Tax, VAT, Employment Taxes and other indirect taxes — including provisions, deferred tax, disclosures and timely return submission.
  • Manage relationships with HMRC, external advisers, Group Tax and auditors, and build strong links across Finance, Risk, Actuarial, Legal and Operations.
  • Lead, develop and coach the tax team, driving continuous improvement and a strong risk and control culture.
What we're looking for
  • CTA and/or ACA qualified with significant in-house tax leadership experience.
  • Extensive UK corporate tax and tax reporting expertise.
  • Background in UK life insurance, pensions, long-term savings or closely related financial services.
  • Proven experience managing HMRC relationships and enquiries within a regulated environment.