Tax Reserves Manager – Finance

About the role

The Tax Reserves Manager joins the Finance team in Belfast, supporting the Head of International Tax with the global tax affairs of the A&O Shearman group. The role focuses on the delivery, reconciliation and release of partners’ tax reserves across multiple jurisdictions.

Key responsibilities

• Develop a detailed understanding of tax systems in all operating territories related to partner tax reserves.
• Set up and reconcile tax reserves in GBP and foreign currencies for equity and employee/consultant partners.
• Coordinate UK and international tax teams to produce a consolidated view of partners’ tax reserve positions.
• Review and improve existing processes, especially after business changes or legislative updates.
• Lead the design and maintenance of reserve reconciliation processes for new offices.
• Support year‑end tax reserve calculations, tax equalisation calculations and related disclosures.
• Ensure accurate posting of reserve positions in accounting systems and maintain deferred tax control accounts.
• Identify technology, AI and automation opportunities to increase efficiency.
• Communicate with partners, CFOs and other stakeholders; liaise with external advisors as needed.
• Coordinate and mentor junior team members in London and Belfast.

Required profile

• Strong General Ledger accounting experience.
• Excellent numeric and analytical abilities.
• ACA or equivalent accounting qualification.
• Tax qualification (e.g., ADIT or CTA) is desirable.
• Personal or corporate tax experience at manager level.
• Collaborative approach with the ability to build relationships globally.
• Effective communication of complex tax and accounting issues.

Required skills

• General Ledger accounting
• Tax reserves calculation
• Tax equalisation calculation
• Deferred tax control account reconciliation

What we offer

• Opportunity to work on international tax projects within a leading professional services firm.
• Exposure to cutting‑edge technology and automation initiatives.
• Collaborative, global team environment.