R&D Tax Director

Step in to lead a nationally respected R&D tax practice

This is a rare opportunity for a senior R&D tax specialist to take the reins of a well–established, technically rigorous R&D practice while the current Partner is on maternity leave. You won't be building from scratch; you'll be stepping into a mature, highly regarded team and given real autonomy to lead it.

Why this firm

This is one of the UK's top 20 accountancy and business advisory firms, with a history stretching back over 80 years and a reputation built on genuinely partner–led client service. The firm has grown significantly in recent years, both organically and through a series of strategic acquisitions, while remaining independently minded and retaining its own distinct culture. It has recently been recognised with multiple industry awards for both the quality of its client work and its culture as an employer, and independent employee review data consistently places it well above the industry average for staff satisfaction, with the vast majority of employees saying they'd recommend it as a place to work. You'll also have access to a flexible working framework, a strong benefits package (including private medical cover, enhanced leave, life assurance and wellbeing support), and the backing of a wider international network of member firms, giving you real scope for both client impact and personal career progression.

About the role

Our client's R&D Tax team works across a broad spread of innovative sectors, helping ambitious businesses navigate an R&D tax landscape that has become increasingly complex. The team isn't just tax technicians; it's supported by engineers, software consultants, and an ex–HMRC inspector, meaning the advice given is genuinely multi–disciplinary and robust.

As Director, you will:

• Lead client engagements as the primary point of contact on high–value, technically complex R&D projects
• Oversee the preparation and review of compliant R&D claims, ensuring they meet HMRC guidance and internal quality standards
• Provide senior input on complex advisory work, including HMRC enquiry support and process reviews
• Stay ahead of legislative change, including the merged scheme and ongoing administrative reform, and brief the wider team accordingly
• Identify new business opportunities and help shape the strategic direction of the R&D service line
• Coach and develop junior team members

About you

• At least 10 years' experience in R&D tax, including a minimum of 2 years at Director level
• Advanced technical knowledge of UK R&D tax legislation, RDEC principles and the merged scheme
• A track record of quality–assuring complex claims, both the technical narrative and the financial analysis
• Confident leading client conversations across diverse technical environments, from engineering to software to life sciences
• Strong leadership skills, with experience coaching and developing junior staff