Senior Tax Specialist needed at Mukuru

We’re looking for a highly skilled Senior Tax Specialist to lead and manage our tax function across multiple jurisdictions, ensuring compliance, driving strategy, and minimising risk.

This is more than just tax reporting. You’ll influence strategic decisions, lead cross-border tax projects, and ensure Mukuru’s continued compliance and success across Africa, the UK, and Europe.

Responsibilities
Tax Processes, Planning & Projects

• Drive the implementation of global tax processes and best practices across the group.
• Provide strategic tax advice for business decisions, projects, and transactions.
• Lead and manage tax projects that improve efficiency, reduce exposure, and support expansion.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Legal, Finance, and Compliance to embed tax thinking into business operations.
• Review external billing to ensure scope alignment and cost accuracy.

Tax Accounting & Reporting

• Prepare and review reconciliations (Income Tax, VAT, Withholding Tax), supporting monthly closes.
• Partner with Finance to ensure accurate tax accounting under IFRS.
• Coordinate with external auditors and manage tax reporting positions.
• Support tax automation initiatives and system improvements.

Tax Compliance & Filings

• Prepare and/or review direct and indirect tax returns across group entities.
• Ensure compliance with local and international regulations, including transfer pricing (master/local files) and country-by-country reports.
• Manage tax registrations for new legal entities.
• Oversee preparation of tax provisions and ensure timely payments and refunds.

Tax Risk Management & Audits

• Conduct tax due diligence and risk reviews to identify and mitigate exposures.
• Lead tax audits, responding to authority requests and ensuring proper documentation.
• Design and implement internal controls for accurate reporting and compliance.

Knowledge Sharing & Leadership

• Mentor junior tax team members and support their growth.
• Deliver training and awareness sessions on tax-related topics to internal stakeholders.
• Stay current with global tax developments and update the business on key changes.

Requirements
Education:

• Honours Degree or Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting or Tax – Essential
• Chartered Accountant (CA) – Preferred
• Registered Tax Practitioner or professional certification – Advantageous
• International Tax or Transfer Pricing certifications – Desirable

Experience:

• 5+ years’ experience in a senior tax role in a multinational, financial, fintech, or Big 4 environment.
• Strong background in Corporate Income Tax, VAT, and international tax compliance.
• 3+ years of Transfer Pricing and global tax documentation experience.
• Proven experience managing audits, leading tax projects, and working with cross-border teams.
• Previous team leadership or mentoring experience.

Competencies

• Strong conceptual and analytical thinking
• High level of professional expertise in tax
• Ability to manage complex tasks under tight timelines
• Effective interpersonal and stakeholder engagement skills
• Initiative-driven and proactive problem-solving
• Excellent verbal and written communication
• Networking and relationship-building capability
• Results-focused with strong execution abilities

Skills

• Deep knowledge of Corporate Tax and VAT legislation (including VAT apportionment)
• Solid understanding of global tax frameworks, particularly across Africa and Europe
• Proficiency in Transfer Pricing strategy and documentation
• Experience with tax software, Microsoft Office (especially Excel), and financial systems
• Ability to interpret and apply IFRS and compliance standards
• Strong leadership, project management, and mentoring skills
• Meticulous attention to detail and analytical acumen