Affinia is a leading, UK Top 50 Accountancy firm. Through successful acquisitions and organic growth, the firm has seen significant development within the last 18 months. Last October we launched our new brand ‘Affinia’ (www.affinia.co.uk) which saw the coming together of LB Group and six other likeminded firms across the East & South East of England to form a combined challenger accounting, tax and business advisory firm.

With a combined heritage spanning over 300 years, we have more than 400 accountancy professionals based in Stratford, Colchester, Chelmsford, Ipswich, Halstead, Harlow, Leigh on Sea, Orpington, Sidcup and Sutton. We advise businesses, government and public sector organisations and individuals in the UK and internationally across seven principal practice groups: Accountancy & Advisory, Tax and Planning, Audit Services, Corporate Finance, Digital Solutions, Payroll and Financial Planning.

We have invested continuously in technology and gained in-depth knowledge across a broad range of markets, growing through acquisitions and private investment. We offer an exceptional service to our clients, with access to our sector experts to develop the strategy that will help them reach their goals. We keep a finger on the industry pulse, so our clients receive the best short to medium and long-term advice.

Purpose of the role:
As a Tax Trainee you will form part of a growing, successful team preparing and delivering high-quality services to clients. You will work with a broad range of clients, ranging from individuals to businesses covering several sectors. You will be helping taxpayers stay compliant with their relevant reporting obligations, assist them in managing their tax positions and mitigate their tax exposure.
 
We operate a hybrid working model, so as a trainee you will split your time between working from the office, client sites as required, and your study/exam locations.  We provide both technical/hard and ‘soft’ skills training through platforms such as Tolley’s, Mercia, Croner-i and LinkedIn Learning. You'll gain hands-on client experience, so in your first year especially we'll equip you with training on essential skills like making a positive first impression, mastering effective time management techniques, and enhancing your communication skills – all of which you’ll be able to put into practice.
 
Fully funded professional qualification for this role: Association of Taxation Technicians (ATT) / Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA)
Potential for additional qualification(s): Level 7 apprenticeship .

Key Task and Accountabilities:
The focus in your first year will be learning from others and via professional study. You will be working as part of a team and able to observe and experience best practice in action. You will be given tasks and responsibilities that match your level of ability and understanding, including, but not limited to:
 
-Assist with the preparation of Tax Returns and computations.
-Develop an understanding of core UK tax legislation and its application.
-Maintain accurate and timely records of client interactions.
-Attend team meetings and contribute to discussions on tax matters.
-Participate in training and development activities to enhance tax knowledge.
-Adhere to company policies and procedures at all times.
-Support with other administrative tasks as required.

Professional skills/qualifications  
A degree is not essential but may be advantageous (e.g. in Accounting, Tax, Finance, Business, Data Science) as you will have the opportunity to study and gain a professionally recognised qualification. 

-A-levels (or equivalent) in Maths and/or English may be advantageous but are not essential.

-A minimum of 5 GCSEs (Level 5 and above), which must include Maths and English Language.

-Have clear written and spoken communication skills. 

-IT-literate with experience of Microsoft Office products.  

-Enjoy collaborating with people. 

-Enjoy learning both formally and ‘on the job.’