Tax Leadership in Times of Change: Why the Right Hire Matters

Periods of corporate restructuring put the tax function under intense pressure. Stability, clarity, and decisive leadership become non-negotiable, yet finding the right individual can be challenging. This is where discreet and effective executive search makes the difference.

A Real Example: Securing the Right Head of Tax

In one recent confidential engagement, a UK-listed company undergoing major organisational change required a Head of Tax who could steady the function and reposition it as a genuine business partner to the board. Technical excellence was expected; what was needed was vision, authority, and influence at the highest level.

Through our discreet process, we identified and introduced an individual whose background combined senior leadership at a Big Four firm with proven in-house experience. Their ability to interpret both UK and international regulation in a commercial context proved invaluable.

Transformative Impact

The results were immediate:

• Stronger governance frameworks were established

• Reporting processes were streamlined

• A forward-looking tax strategy was embedded

• The board gained renewed confidence in the tax function

  
  

Within months, the function evolved from reactive compliance to a proactive, strategic contributor. The new leader not only delivered certainty but also helped shape long-term corporate direction.

Lessons for Organisations

For senior organisations across the UK, the message is clear: the right tax leader delivers far more than compliance. They shape culture, influence strategy, and provide stability during times of change.

At HJC Recruitment, we specialise in discreet tax recruitment UK and accounting recruitment, connecting organisations with the leaders who turn challenges into opportunities. For professionals pursuing senior tax jobs, we provide access to roles where their expertise and leadership can have genuine impact.

At HJC Recruitment, our role is to facilitate these connections — discreetly, selectively, and with an emphasis on long-term impact.