Open to opportunities

Casley Colbert

@casleycolbert

Message

Dynamic senior leader with expertise in tax and operations strategy.

South Africa

Message

What I'm looking for

I am looking for a role that fosters innovation, encourages collaboration, and offers opportunities for professional growth.

I am a dynamic senior leader with over 7 years of proven success in spearheading tax and operational strategy across multinational organizations. My expertise lies in driving revenue growth, optimizing cross-border compliance, and delivering large-scale process transformations. I excel at aligning tax strategy with overall business objectives to unlock value, enhance governance, and enable sustainable expansion.

In my current role as Senior VAT Manager, I oversee all aspects of VAT reclaim processes within the APAC regions, including compliance, reporting, and strategic planning. I am passionate about staying abreast of evolving tax laws and regulations to anticipate and mitigate potential risks for the company. My strategic mindset enables me to identify opportunities for tax optimization while ensuring compliance and enhancing operational excellence.

Throughout my career, I have prioritized elevating client experience by optimizing operational processes and delivering services with precision. From improving turnaround times on complex VAT reclaims to coaching teams on proactive client engagement, I have consistently driven customer experience excellence that supports business growth and client loyalty.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Senior VAT Manager

Current

VAT IT

Feb 2024 - Present (1 year 5 months)

Oversaw all aspects of VAT reclaim processes within the APAC regions, including compliance, reporting, and strategic planning. Spearheaded operational strategies aligning tax compliance with overall business goals.

Compliance Strategic Planning Reporting Risk Management Resource Allocation Budget Management Team Leadership Workflow Optimization Regulatory Requirements

Head of Foreign VAT Submissions

VAT IT

Dec 2023 - Present (1 year 7 months)

Led a team of 20 professionals, managing VAT reclaim within EU & UK, with submission values surpassing GBP 20M. Redesigned and streamlined operational processes, reducing inefficiencies and cutting costs.

Team Leadership performance reporting Client Strategy Process Standardization

2IC Head of Service & Operations

VAT IT

Jan 2023 - Present (2 years 6 months)

Managed a team of 11 professionals, driving VAT submissions exceeding GBP 9M. Developed and launched a comprehensive training program that boosted team performance, efficiency, and deliver higher quality, more consistent client communication.

Team Management Client Relationship Management Compliance Risk Mitigation Client Query Resolution Performance Improvement

Tax Supervisor

Ernst & Young

Oct 2020 - Present (4 years 9 months)

Oversaw business tax returns and compliance, ensuring accuracy and regulatory adherence. Conducted in-depth tax research and advised clients on risk mitigation and tax planning strategies.

Compliance Risk Mitigation Tax Planning Team Management Client Experience Communication

Tax Associate

Ernst & Young

Aug 2019 - Present (5 years 11 months)

Assisted in tax audits, reconciliations, and corporate tax planning. Conducted research and provided advisory support to senior managers.

Tax Audits Reconciliations Tax Planning Research Advisory Client Meetings Client Expectation Management Responsiveness

Junior Accountant & Researcher

VAT Compliance

Jun 2018 - Present (7 years 1 month)

Liaised with tax authorities worldwide on behalf of clients, ensuring accurate and timely resolution of their tax inquiries. Managed communications for accounts payable/receivable, delivering prompt and transparent updates to clients.

Accounts Payable Accounts Receivable Client Communication Data Analysis Account Reconciliation Financial Reporting Time Management Compliance

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

University of the Witwatersrand

Master of Commerce, Taxation

Completed a Master of Commerce with a specialization in Taxation. Coursework included Research Methods, Public Finance, South African Tax, International Tax, and Interpretation of Tax Statutes.

University of the Witwatersrand

Postgraduate Diploma, Taxation

Obtained a Postgraduate Diploma in Taxation, focusing on key areas such as South African Tax, International Tax, and Interpretation of Tax Statutes.

University of the Witwatersrand

Bachelor of Commerce, Accounting and Taxation

Completed a Bachelor of Commerce with majors in Accounting and Taxation, building a strong foundation in financial principles and tax regulations.

Fourways High School

National Senior Certificate, General Studies

Grade: 6th in grade (5 Distinctions)

Achieved the National Senior Certificate, placing 6th in the grade with 5 distinctions. Distinctions were earned in Accounting, Business Studies, Geography, Life Orientation, and Afrikaans.