Taxation Technical Specialist (GMG/SEG 4)

JOB PURPOSE:

Under the general direction of the Deputy Financial Secretary, Taxation Policy, the Taxation Technical Specialist is responsible for providing technical advice and support to the Executive on a variety of issues including the development of Taxation Policy’s positions and strategies in respect to technical issues arising from tax measures, tax policies or the administration of the tax laws; prepare Practice Notes and Private Rulings for publication. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Technical Responsibilities 

• Provides expertise in the interpretation and application of technical aspects of statutes governing all tax types, regarding tax policy and tax reform programmes; 
• Performs the role of technical advisor to the Executive on tax matters;
• Conducts research and responds to tax-related queries from internal and external stakeholders; 
• Recommends to the Executive for the determination of technical issues arising from objections and other interactions with taxpayers;
• Evaluates submissions from MDAs and provide advice and recommendations;
• Liaises with Jamaica Customs Agency and Tax Administration Jamaica to ensure alignment with the Taxation Policy Division’s objectives;
• Monitors the implementation of recommendations developed under the Ministry’s Taxation Reform Programme; 
• Analyzes and assesses the potential impact of new tax legislation, policies and measures; 
• Participates in meetings to provide technical advice on tax reforms measures under consideration; 
• Acts as GOJ chief negotiator as part of the Bauxite Negotiation Team;
• Collaborates with TAJ in the interpretation of policies for the preparation of Practice Notes and Private Rulings; 
• Collaborates with technical staff and experts to develop and implement reform initiatives and strategies; 
• Compiles and maintains technical manuals and other publications as necessary; 
• Performs the role of principal advisor on technical issues for the tax reform programmes in the respective functional areas; 
• Contributes to adjustments to technical tax reform programmes and projects based on monitoring of results; 
• Contributes to the efficiency and effectiveness of GOJs tax policy and tax administration reform interventions; 
• Engages staff as well as taxpayer organizations and other stakeholders;
• Participates in tax-related forums of various types; 
• Prepares reports highlighting the outcome of meetings; Management/Administrative Responsibilities 
• Contributes to the Division’s corporate and operational plans and budgets, and monitors achievement against them; 
• Represents the MOFPS at conferences, symposiums/seminars/ workshops and meetings both local and overseas and make presentations on issues bearing portfolio responsibility; 
• Serves as a member of technical working groups such The Bauxite Negotiating Team, Jamaica Energy Council, Jamaica Trade Facilitation Task Force, The Minerals Development Advisory Council to the International Health Regulations and Stakeholders Consultative Committee; 
• Part of Jamaica’s Delegation to the International Seabed Authority;
• Maintains effective working relationships with external and internal stakeholders regarding various programmes pertaining to the development and implementation of taxation policy, legislation, efficient administration and reform; 
• Performs other related duties assigned

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES:

• Expert knowledge of tax laws and regulations 
• Sound knowledge of taxation policies 
• Expert knowledge of audit and accounting principles and procedures
• Strong knowledge of direct and indirect taxes as well as emerging taxes
• Comprehensive knowledge of the Customs Law and practices
• Comprehensive knowledge of commercial law and practice
• Sound knowledge of programme development and implementation
• Knowledge of international tax laws and practices 
• Knowledge of Double Taxation Treaties 
• Strong research and analytical skills 
• Sound knowledge of computer applications 
• Strategic Management - Possess the ability to plan and set realistic objectives and develop a course of action to manage and achieve organization’s goals 
• Leadership - Excellent leadership and people management skills
• Problem Solving and Analysis – Possess the ability to identify and analyse work related problems and generate innovative or appropriate solutions
• Communication –Possess excellent written and oral communication skills
• Initiative – Ability to exercise initiative and sound judgment
• Integrity – Possess the ability to act within guidelines, honesty, conduct business transactions, and treat these in a confidential manner.
• Interpersonal Skills – Possess the ability to interact co-operatively with others and to build long term internal and external relationships; extensive network of professional contacts in the government and tax space 
• Time Management – Superior time management skills with respect to setting priorities and managing multiple workflows against tight deadlines
• Excellent negotiating and advocacy skills 

QUALIFICATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• MSc. Degree in Economics, Accounting, ACCC Level 3 or equivalent qualification 
• Post-graduate training in Accounting, Revenue Law or Tax Auditing
• Training and experience in International Taxation, Business Management or Financial Management 
• Five (5) years’ experience, three (3) of which should be at the Technical Specialist level. 

OR 

• BSc. Degree in Economics, Accounting, ACCC Level 3 or equivalent qualification 
• Post-graduate training in Accounting, Revenue Law or Tax Auditing
• Training and experience in International Taxation, Business Management or Financial Management 
• Eight (8) years’ experience, five (5) of which should be at the Technical Specialist level.

We thank all applicants for the interest expressed; however, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.