Job Description

We are looking for a computer science specialist to work within our existing Innovation Reliefs team to help our 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.

Key responsibilities:

• Managing R&D engagements including financial management and billing, staffing, risk procedures, deliverables and client relationships.
• To meet with clients and potential clients across to explain our services.
• To determine and 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.
• Write 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 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.
• Act as a point of contact on specific R&D projects for any queries from the business.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Works collaboratively with other members of the R&D team across Central Region. Develop supportive and effective working relationships with members of the team and provides cooperation and input whilst informing others of own activities and progress. Good project management skills and an ability to manage own workload, as well as junior staff. To review work completed by junior staff for accuracy and completeness, and to provide constructive feedback. To ensure tax quality at all times by adhering to the firm’s quality standards. Is regarded as open and approachable, takes time to listen to the views and ideas of others. Ensures that the R&D engagement team are fully updated on progress and any issues that might affect the client relationship. Capable of communicating confidently and knowledgably with other Managers, Senior Managers, Directors and Partners within the firm. Perceives the needs and concerns of clients and adapts approach to meet these needs, whilst maintaining effective and professional working relationships with key client personnel. Maintains an awareness of the firm’s specialist services and publications. Ensure added value to clients and identify opportunities for other services lines. The ability to deal with technical and finance staff on a one to one to basis, conducting structured discussions. Keeps abreast of tax technical issues specifically relating to R&D tax reliefs. Demonstrates a detailed understanding of wider business and economic issues. Demonstrates an awareness of client and business issues in the sector.Excellent communication skills in a range of situations both written and oral. Keep adequate records to account for time spent on an assignment. Continually develops an advanced level of technical knowledge through appropriate reading and courses. Be perceived by the team and client as reliable and dependable, taking responsibility for work assigned at all times. Computer Science (or similar) degree or post graduate qualification. Prior experience working in the software / IT industry. High 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. Proven experience in client handling and managing a busy portfolio. Ability / willingness to travel around the Central Region and potentially wider (occasionally).