As a Senior Tax Manager, you play a crucial role within the tax team. At this level, you're one of the most senior members still actively managing projects and leading teams.
While directors focus more on business development and client relationships, senior managers act as a bridge between leadership and the wider team. This makes your ability to manage projects and people a key highlight of your CV.
The importance of soft skills
Since you are often the final decision-maker before work reaches directors and partners, your managerial and review skills are essential. Employers look for strong leadership, the ability to oversee complex projects, and a track record of mentoring and guiding junior team members. Demonstrating these soft skills on your CV will set you apart.
Highlighting relevant projects
Senior managers tend to focus more on listing specific projects they’ve worked on. While this is valuable, it's important to ensure the projects included on your CV are relevant to the role you're applying for. Projects should serve as strong talking points in an interview and showcase your breadth of experience. Avoid listing projects that don’t align with the job, as they won’t add value to your application.
Shifting towards client relationships & business development
At the senior manager level, your role starts to incorporate client relationship management and business development. While this focus becomes even stronger at the director level (which Claire will discuss further), it’s still beneficial to highlight these skills in your CV. Demonstrating experience in client interaction, networking, or developing new business opportunities can give you a competitive edge.
How Senior Manager CVs differ from Assistant Manager CVs
There’s a noticeable shift in CV structure as you progress from assistant manager to senior manager. Here are some key differences:
Less emphasis on technical skills
At the assistant manager and manager levels, it's important to demonstrate technical competency. However, as a senior manager, technical ability is assumed. Instead, the focus should be on leadership, project oversight, and strategic thinking.
Greater emphasis on review & oversight
At this stage, you’re likely doing less hands-on work and more reviewing, mentoring, and providing constructive feedback. Employers will want to see experience in conducting reviews, training junior staff, and ensuring quality control. Be sure to highlight any training sessions or mentorship programs you’ve been involved in.
Final thoughts on writing a Senior Tax Manager CV
Your CV should reflect your evolution into a strategic leader within the tax team. By emphasising management, project leadership, business development, and review responsibilities, you position yourself as a strong candidate for senior roles.
If you're looking to move into a Director role, read our article on 'What to include in a Tax Director CV'
Chris Cheng is an ACA qualified accountant turned tax recruiter, hiring for corporate tax, M&A tax, and transfer pricing positions across professional services and boutique advisory firms.
Chris works with a variety of firms including big 4, top 100 accountancy firms, and boutique accountancy firms across London and the rest of the UK.
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