Associate (3+ PQE) - Corporate Tax

Associate (3+ PQE) - Corporate Tax

Wedlake Bell are seeking an Associate (3+ PQE) to join our Corporate Tax team, advising a diverse range of UK and international clients on complex tax matters. This is a full-time, permanent role.

Our Corporate Tax team advises individuals, owner-managed businesses and multinational corporations across the full spectrum of their UK-facing operations and activities. Its work spans corporate transactions, real estate, international tax, general tax advisory, and tax disputes and litigation. The team works closely with colleagues across the wider Corporate team and the firm to help clients navigate complex legislation and implement practical, tax-efficient strategies aligned with their commercial objectives.

Joining the team, the Associate can expect a varied workload and close partner contact. The role will involve providing technically strong, pragmatic advice, supporting transactions and advisory matters, managing day-to-day client relationships, and contributing to the development of the practice.

This is an excellent opportunity for a driven Corporate Tax Associate to develop broad experience within a collaborative, full-service firm and to work on complex matters with a strong degree of responsibility and client exposure. If this sounds interesting, and you have a background in Tax work, we encourage you to apply.

Find out more about our Corporate Tax practice here .

About Us:

Located in the heart of the City of London, Wedlake Bell is a Top 100 law firm offering full services across Private Client, Real Estate, Business Services, and Disputes. The firm has 81 Partners and a total headcount of around 400. We have grown year-on-year, attributed to the continual success of our legal teams, and the dedication of our staff members.

Our culture is widely-recognised as one of the best in City law, built on trust, collaboration, and mutual respect. Joining us, you will be part of a firm which supports work/life balance, personal development, and building strong connections. With regular cross-firm socials and events (including our renowned yearly ski trip and walking trips!), you will quickly feel like part of the WB team.

Nature of Work:

- Corporate tax structuring and advisory work in connection with mergers, acquisitions, disposals, corporate reconstructions and demergers.
- Structuring advice for international clients entering the UK market, including inbound investment and the management of potential UK tax exposure.
- Tax advice on real estate acquisitions, disposals, lettings, development projects and joint venture arrangements between landowners and developers.
- International tax advice, including UK tax risks arising from the presence of a business or personnel in the UK and the construction and application of double tax treaties.
- General tax advisory work, including employment-related taxes, National Insurance contributions, PAYE, IR35, settlement agreements, and tax provisions in facility agreements for borrowers and lenders.
- Tax disputes and litigation, including HMRC enquiries and investigations, tribunal appeals and disputes involving substantial tax liabilities.

Key Responsibilities:

- Delivering clear and high-level legal advice on a range of Corporate Tax matters;
- Acting as the day-to-day contact for advising clients on ongoing or new matters; and
- Developing the practice by promoting the firm and its work, both to existing and potential clients.

Key Skills and Qualifications:

- Experience working in a recognised corporate tax practice, with a strong background in transactional and advisory tax work;
- Experience of advising on the tax aspects of corporate transactions. Exposure to real estate tax, international tax, employment taxes, finance transactions or tax disputes would be advantageous;
- A clear and developed understanding of UK corporate tax law and its practical and commercial application;
- A qualified Solicitor in England & Wales, ideally 3+ PQE;
- Strong drafting, analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to explain complex tax issues clearly and concisely;
- Confidence in managing matters and client relationships with appropriate supervision;
- Strong communication, collaboration and business-development skills; and
- A high level of professionalism, integrity, attention to detail and commercial judgement.

Why join us?

- A competitive starting salary and bonus;
- A comprehensive pension plan;
- 25 days paid holiday per annum, plus additional leave for significant life events;
- Option to purchase up to five additional days of holiday each year;
- Life Assurance and competitive income protection scheme;
- Access to Private Medical and Dental Insurance from day one;
- Enhanced parental leave policies;
- Employee Assistance Programme with face-to-face counselling services;
- Variety of staff wellbeing initiatives including Pilates classes and subsidised gym memberships; and
- A range of bonus schemes recognising referrals and client introductions.

We are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, where every individual is respected and valued. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, irrespective of their background or personal circumstances.

If you are passionate about joining a busy team and are eager for a challenging yet fulfilling career, we encourage you to apply.