Job Description

Head of Tax - Johannesburg, Makhanda (Grahamstown), or Cape Town
About Our Client:
Our Client is a growing and dynamic accounting firm in South Africa, dedicated to providing exceptional accounting, tax, and advisory services. They pride themselves on their commitment to excellence and their ability to support a diverse client base, often with international interests. As they continue to expand their capabilities, they are seeking a visionary and experienced Head of Tax to lead and grow their tax department, ensure world-class compliance, and establish a dedicated Family Office service for high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs).
The Opportunity:
As the Head of Tax, you will be a pivotal member of Our Client''s leadership team, responsible for the strategic direction and operational success of their tax department. You will oversee both compliance and advisory services, build and manage a high-performing team, and spearhead the development of their new Family Office offering. This is an exciting opportunity for a driven and technically astute tax professional with strong leadership skills and a passion for delivering exceptional client service.
Key Responsibilities:
Tax Department Leadership & Management:
Assume full accountability for the Tax Department, encompassing both compliance and tax advisory functions.
Strategically develop, implement, and oversee a structured Family Office service offering tailored to the unique needs of HNWIs.
Formulate and execute tax strategies that align with Our Client''s objective of providing world-class tax services.
Provide expert advice on the structuring, administration, and taxation of Trusts, ensuring optimal tax efficiency and compliance.
Establish and monitor departmental targets, ensuring financial profitability and sustainable growth.
Lead, mentor, and develop a team of tax professionals, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development.
Tax Advisory & Compliance:
Deliver expert tax advisory services to clients with complex, often multi-jurisdictional tax considerations, while ensuring all advice remains rooted in South African tax legislation.
Maintain a deep understanding of current and emerging tax legislation, SARS compliance requirements, and industry best practices.
Prepare and review comprehensive tax opinions for Directors and clients.
Oversee and manage end-to-end tax compliance across a broad range of tax types, including:
Income tax
Value Added Tax (VAT)
Payroll taxes (PAYE, UIF, SDL)
Dividends Withholding Tax (DWT)
Securities Transfer Tax (STT)
Other applicable withholding taxes
Manage all aspects of tax registrations, SARS audits and verifications, and the resolution of tax disputes.
Oversee the accurate calculation of income tax and deferred tax for year-end financial processing.
Qualified Chartered Accountant (CA(SA)) or an equivalent professional qualification.