Charles Hitchings’s career exemplifies the adaptability and expertise required to navigate the evolving complexities of tax in today’s global economy. A KPMG-trained chartered accountant with extensive experience in tax, treasury, and finance, Charles has seen first-hand how shifts in legislation and technology reshape the demands placed on businesses, particularly those in financial services.
Charles describes his attraction to tax as rooted in its ever-changing nature. From his early career in financial services to his work in asset finance and tax leasing, he has witnessed transformative shifts, such as the 2006 Finance Act, which altered entire industries. “Tax changes can be infrequent, but when they happen, they can fundamentally reshape markets,” he explains, recalling how these reforms caused many banks to exit the leasing space altogether.
In recent years, Charles notes that the burden on companies has shifted toward compliance. Whether it’s the introduction of the Common Reporting Standard (CRS) or Pillar Two requirements, businesses must now allocate significant resources to tax reporting, even when no adjustments are ultimately required. “It’s about proving compliance, which can be a time-intensive process, particularly for companies without a dedicated tax team,” he says.
For SMEs, where tax expertise is often part of the broader finance function, managing growing compliance demands can be challenging. “Many SMEs start by outsourcing compliance, but as their operations expand, so do their tax responsibilities,” Charles notes. “At some stage, they may need dedicated expertise – whether that’s an in-house specialist or someone to support their existing team.”
Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, Charles works with businesses in this transitional phase to find practical solutions. This could mean providing hands-on support for tax processes or helping to put in place frameworks that finance teams can manage themselves.
“It’s about giving finance teams the tools and confidence to handle tax effectively while offering guidance where it’s most needed,” he explains. This might include supporting year-end tax provisions, mapping general ledger systems to tax software, or ensuring compliance with global transfer pricing documentation requirements.
For businesses with international operations, Charles underscores the growing compliance demands of transfer pricing and cross-border tax frameworks. “Documentation requirements are more rigorous than ever,” he says, pointing to the need for detailed transfer pricing manuals and intercompany agreements. With jurisdictions like the UK Crown Dependencies raising tax rates in response to Pillar Two, many companies are seeing fewer adjustments but higher compliance costs.
“Understanding both the global tax landscape and a company’s internal operations is crucial,” Charles explains. “It’s not just about compliance; it’s about achieving it in the most effective way possible.”
As tax frameworks evolve and compliance demands increase, businesses – especially those operating internationally – must stay ahead of regulatory changes. Charles’ experience offers a unique perspective on how organisations can navigate these complexities, whether through streamlining reporting processes, integrating technology, or ensuring tax teams are equipped to manage compliance effectively.
For SMEs and multinational businesses alike, the challenge isn’t just understanding tax regulations; it’s embedding the right expertise at the right time to manage risk, improve efficiency, and adapt to an ever-changing landscape.
Charles’ expertise lies in simplifying complex tax challenges and helping businesses navigate an increasingly regulated tax environment. By providing hands-on guidance and tailored solutions, he ensures businesses remain compliant while focusing on their core operations and strategic goals.
For SMEs and larger organisations alike, his embedded approach combines technical knowledge, process optimisation, and a deep understanding of the nuances of global tax systems. Working closely with key stakeholders, he provides targeted advice and coaching, helping businesses manage tax risks effectively in the long term.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-hitchings/
Bethany Kopiski is a specialist in recruiting Tax professionals at all levels across Commerce & Industry, from Newly-Qualified to Group and Head of Tax roles. With a genuine passion for shaping careers and supporting clients, she is dedicated to finding the perfect match for interim or permanent tax needs. She partners with organisations to secure top talent in Corporate Tax, Indirect Tax, Transfer Pricing, and Employment Tax. Her expertise spans FTSE-listed companies, global organisations, and privately-owned groups.
