Freelance Head of VAT Compliance Solutions

Freelance Head of VAT Compliance Solutions

Location: Remote (within Germany)

Language: Fluent German preferred

Team Size: 13 (6 direct reports, 7 indirect)

Focus Markets: Germany, Great Britain, Spain, France, Italy, Poland, Czechia, Netherlands - with interest in expanding into Ireland

About the Role

We're seeking a seasoned leader to head a VAT Compliance Solutions department. This team plays a pivotal role in supporting eCommerce clients across Europe by delivering accurate, compliant VAT reports tailored to local regulations. These reports are used by clients to file their VAT returns - although my client does not file or audit on their behalf.

The role is split 50/50 between strategic people leadership and hands-on contribution, ideal for someone who can both guide a growing team and work directly with clients or stakeholders across various markets.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a team of 13 (6 direct + 7 indirect) with varied experience levels (junior to senior).
• Ensure all VAT reports are 100% compliant with respective national regulations.
• Serve as the key liaison between customers, tax advisors, legal, product, and sales teams.
• Collaborate closely with customers to ensure data accuracy and timely reporting.
• Support go-to-market strategies and regional expansion - particularly evaluating new opportunities in Ireland, a potentially critical logistics hub.
• Represent the compliance team in legislative or regulatory discussions with the product team.
• Manage team performance, mentor team members, and foster professional development.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Strong VAT knowledge, especially in the eCommerce space.
• Proven experience managing hybrid teams with varying levels of expertise.
• Ability to work cross-functionally with product, legal, sales, and customer-facing teams.
• Deep familiarity with German market compliance; fluent German language skills are highly preferred due to internal documentation and the client base (85–90% German).
• Strategic mindset with hands-on willingness to contribute to client and market success.

Nice to Have

• Experience with Irish VAT regulations or interest in that market.
• Background in SaaS or compliance-focused services for international clients.