R&D Tax | Associate Director - Software

Associate Director - R&D Tax (Software Specialist)
We are looking for a computer science specialist to work within our client's existing Innovation Reliefs team to help clients claim R&D incentives. The existing team is very experienced in these tax reliefs, but would benefit from more specialist input for claims in software / IT. The ideal candidate will have an in-depth understanding of computer science and software development; strong communication skills to help in talking to clients, and clear and concise writing skills to help with describing these projects in writing.
Responsibilities:
Managing R&D engagements including financial management and billing, staffing, risk procedures, deliverables, and client relationships.
Meeting with clients and potential clients across to explain our client's services.
Determining an appropriate scope of work and budget for each client and propose a fee quote.
Developing claim methodologies and manage the preparation of R&D tax relief claims for submission to HMRC.
Coordinating and leading interviews with clients’ technical and finance teams to advise on the R&D tax relief and to assist with identification of qualifying R&D activities and expenditure.
Writing technical descriptions of the client’s projects to include in the reports to be sent to HMRC, and also edit client drafted technical descriptions, highlighted areas for improvement and suggested changes.
Preparing robust costing and technological documentation to support the R&D claims based on the UK BIS guidelines and CIRD manual.
Building an internal network within the wider parts of the firm and an external network with intermediary companies.
Identifying, leading on, and progressing business development opportunities, pitching for work with both new and existing clients.
Preparation of documentation and liaison with HMRC in response to enquiries into R&D Tax claims.
Acting as a point of contact on specific R&D projects for any queries from the business.
Reviewing work completed by junior staff for accuracy and completeness, and to provide constructive feedback.
Ensuring tax quality at all times by adhering to the firm’s quality standards.
Ensuring that the R&D engagement team are fully updated on progress and any issues that might affect the client relationship.
Communicating confidently and knowledgably with other Managers, Associate Directors, Directors and Partners within the firm.
Perceiving the needs and concerns of clients and adapting approaches to meet these needs, whilst maintaining effective and professional working relationships with key client personnel.
Maintaining an awareness of the firm’s specialist services and publications, ensuring added value to clients and identify opportunities for other services lines.
About the ideal candidate
The ideal candidate will have an in-depth knowledge of computer science and software development with a knowledge of Research and Development.
Computer Science (or similar) degree or post graduate qualification.
Prior experience working in the software / IT industry.
Good level of tax technical knowledge of the UK’s R&D tax incentives.
Experience in preparing and submitting R&D tax relief claims in the sector.
Clear and concise writing style.
Experience in responding to HMRC enquiries.
For more information on this highly exciting opportunity - please contact Ben Worsley