Associate, Indirect Tax (VAT & Customs & Excise)

About the role

EY is looking for an Associate in its Indirect Tax Core team in Lagos. The Associate delivers indirect tax advisory and compliance services to clients, with a strong grasp of Nigerian and international indirect tax rules, including VAT and Customs & Excise Duty. The role also involves leading and developing teams, managing client relationships and driving business development.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and support teams in providing indirect tax compliance and advisory services.
• Apply the Nigerian VAT Act, Customs & Excise duty regulations and international best practice to resolve client issues.
• Give technical guidance on the interpretation and application of indirect tax legislation in advisory work, compliance reports and responses to tax authorities.
• Act as a liaison with clients and tax authorities to ensure timely filing of statutory returns.
• Monitor changes in indirect tax laws, policies and global trends so clients and internal teams stay informed.
• Manage relationships with clients, regulators and external stakeholders and champion thought leadership on VAT, Customs & Excise Duty and other indirect tax topics.
• Identify new service opportunities, lead proposals and client pitches, and support the firm's strategic initiatives.
• Mentor and develop junior team members and ensure assignments meet quality and risk standards.
• Oversee engagement economics, including budgets, billing and cash collection.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree (minimum second-class upper division or equivalent) from an accredited institution.
• Mandatory membership in ICAN, ACCA or CITN.
• At least 2 years of professional experience in indirect tax, preferably in a Big 4 or professional services firm.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects covering compliance, advisory, controversy resolution and risk mitigation.
• Leadership capability to manage teams and drive change.

Required skills

• Strong understanding of indirect tax principles, local and international VAT regulations and Customs & Excise Duty laws.
• Analytical skills, attention to detail and strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in indirect tax compliance tools and Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).

What we offer

• A Big 4 professional services environment with exposure to multinational and high-profile clients.
• Opportunities to lead strategic projects and contribute to the firm's thought leadership in indirect tax.
• Career development through training, mentorship and leadership opportunities.
• Competitive compensation and benefits package.