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The Most In-Demand Tax Skills in the UK Right Now

  • Writer: Tamlin Roberts
    Tamlin Roberts
  • Sep 18
  • 2 min read

Your guide to standing out in the UK tax job market in 2025 

In the fast-evolving world of UK tax jobs, employers are seeking professionals who combine technical expertise, digital capability, and soft skills that deliver business value. Whether you’re aiming for a promotion or looking for your next role, here are the in-demand tax skills UK hiring managers are prioritising right now. 


Technical Tax Skills  

Corporate Tax & Transfer Pricing

With global tax reforms and the OECD’s BEPS framework, corporate tax specialists, particularly those skilled in transfer pricing, are in high demand. 


VAT & Indirect Tax Expertise

Brexit and e-commerce growth have kept VAT skills high on the list, especially for those working in retail, logistics, and international trade. 


R&D Tax Relief Specialists

With innovation incentives continuing to attract investment, employers want tax professionals who can prepare accurate R&D claims and handle HMRC compliance checks. 


A person points at the word "SKILLS" amidst business-related icons and graphs, including a dollar sign, bar chart, and the word "FOCUS."

Essential Tax Software Skills  

Digital transformation is reshaping tax departments. Employers are looking for candidates who can work with: 


  • Thomson Reuters ONESOURCE – for corporate tax compliance. 

  • Sage & Xero – for SME and mid-tier accounting. 

  • Microsoft Excel (Advanced) – pivot tables, macros, and modelling. 

  • Power BI & Alteryx – for analytics and automation. 

  • CaseWare & CCH Central – for practice-based tax compliance. 


Employers value candidates who can implement, optimise, and train others in these systems. 


Soft Skills That Set Tax Professionals Apart  

Tax roles are no longer purely about compliance, employers want T-shaped professionals who can blend deep expertise with broad commercial awareness. 

Key soft skills include: 


  • Commercial Insight – connecting tax decisions to business strategy. 

  • Clear Communication – translating complex rules into actionable advice. 

  • Project Management – keeping multi-phase tax projects on track. 

  • Adaptability – thriving in changing legislative environments. 

  • Collaboration – working cross-functionally with finance, legal, and operations. 


Building Your In-Demand Tax Skills  

The UK tax sector in 2025 rewards professionals who can combine corporate tax or VAT expertise with tax software skills and client advisory capabilities. Focus on these in-demand skills to unlock your next career move. To stay competitive in the UK tax jobs market you should:  


  • Upskill Digitally – train in Power BI, ONESOURCE, or automation tools. 

  • Earn Relevant Qualifications – CTA, ATT, or specialist CIOT accreditations. 

  • Stay Current – follow HMRC updates, Budget announcements, and industry news. 

  • Network Strategically – join tax forums, LinkedIn groups, and professional bodies. 


Looking for your next tax role? Browse our latest UK tax jobs and connect with specialist recruiters who understand your skills and career ambitions. 

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