Rafael P.

Experience

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  Maersk Line

  Jun 2010 - Jan 2013

  Tax Executive

  Member of corporate financial tax team responsible for facilitating internal tax audits and ensuring financial compliance within largest global shipping organization. Managed renewal of government issued local and national licenses ensuring registration timelines, accurate documentation submissions, and compliance with standards. Analyzed departmental and organizational operations by conducting continuous studies and simulations to identify business opportunities for improvements, risk avoidance, and cost savings. Conducted in-depth research on tax regulations and institutional decisions.● Completed accurate and timely tax filings of various returns, including VAT, freight tax, withholding tax compensation, fringe benefit tax, and income tax.● Assisted in completion of BIR tax audits ensuring corporate compliance by reviewing completed internal documentation, tax filings, and financial processes. Show less

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  JTI (Japan Tobacco International)

  Apr 2013 - Sept 2017

  Tax Specialist

  Stand-alone tax accountant responsible for ensuring corporate compliance with regulatory requirements and governing principles by ensuring accuracy of all tax operations and analyzing impacts on business operations. Partnered with internal and external auditors on quarterly and annual basis ensuring compliance with J-SOX, GAAP, and all governing bodies. Collaborated with cross-functional teams and Bureau of Customs to ensure correct processing of imported goods and tax reporting procedures.● Ensured corporate tax filing compliance with all regulatory tax authorities, including VAT returns, corporate income tax, withholding tax, fringe benefit tax, excise tax, royalty tax, and annual book registrations.● Created and conducted classroom training sessions to introduce general tax concepts to non-finance and sales employees providing information on tax implications of various business transactions within operational processes.● Established standard operating procedures to define financial and tax reporting processes ensuring compliance with IFRS and Philippine National Internal Revenue Code. Show less

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  Blue Marin Management Consultancies

  Jan 2018 - Feb 2019

  Senior Tax Consultant

  Partnered with portfolio of clients, including Schneider Electric Group by providing tax consultation and guidance on best accounting practices and corporate tax procedures. Advised multi-national corporations overseeing all tax compliance, including providing advice on business registration, reviewing tax returns, implementing VAT focused business models, engaging in continuous tax research, integrating continuous improvement processes, and conducting presentations to management on tax implications. Led VAT initiatives by preparing working files and ensuring compliance with accounts payables, receivables, and general ledger processes. Liaised with external tax advisors in defining resolution with complex tax issues.● Filed income tax returns in Kuwait, Qatar, and Oman and provided guidance and direction to Saudi Arabian accounting team on accurate review and analysis processes of tax returns prior to submission to tax authorities.● Provided tax accruals for Schneider corporate entities annually by supplying required documentation for corresponding year, evaluating sufficiency of existing accruals, and performing tax adjustments where identified.● Facilitated receipt of tax clearance certificates in Kuwait and Qatar by communicating with tax auditors and ensured collection of retention funds from various customers. Show less

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  Averda

  Mar 2019 - Jul 2020

  Group Tax Analyst

  In this past role, the overall management of tax initiatives was successfully executed, including internal reporting, tax auditing, and compliance for Averda Group of Companies' corporate subsidiaries in GCC, Africa, and Europe. Effective collaboration with internal leadership teams and external stakeholders led to the development of strategic tax efficiencies, ensuring the application of arm's length principle for related party transactions from a transfer pricing perspective and providing guidance on regulatory tax standards. Risk mitigation plans were implemented to ensure compliance and create cost-saving initiatives, while also assisting in financial audits to guarantee documentation completion according to regulating tax laws.Business operations were analyzed to identify opportunities for internal efficiencies and profit maximization. Standard operating procedures were established to streamline internal processes, standardize tax procedures, and generate a solid training foundation for employees.• Prepared monthly, quarterly, and annual cash flow forecasts by conducting VAT planning to minimize impact, communicating with treasury and local finance teams, and issuing reminders to ensure timely fund availability.• Completed monthly tax account reconciliations and deferred tax calculations by creating a standardized template, analyzing reports for anomalies, investigating discrepancies, and implementing automation measures.• Facilitated provisioning for uncertain tax positions and related interest calculation by implementing risk mitigation measures, reviewing existing tax audits and assessments, and advising on standard disclosures according to IAS 12, IFRIC 23, and other disclosure requirements.• Collaborated with the legal team to review tax clauses within stakeholder and client agreements, maintaining constant communication to ensure corporate agreements complied with tax laws. Show less

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  Bahri | البحري

  Apr 2021 - Jan 2024

  Tax Specialist

  As a dedicated and results-oriented tax professional at Bahri, I took pride in being the focal point for all tax-related concerns of the Group’s UAE entities. My extensive experience and qualifications enabled me to efficiently manage a wide range of responsibilities, from tax advisory to process improvements.Key Responsibilities:• Prepared UAE VAT Returns and Saudi Withholding Tax Returns, ensuring timely and accurate submissions.• Provided general tax advisory to internal customers, offering expert guidance and support on complex tax matters.• Collaborated with external parties to align VAT treatment and effectively addressed any tax-related inquiries.• Reviewed contracts from a tax perspective, identifying potential risks and opportunities to optimize tax implications.• Conducted tax training sessions for different departments, fostering a culture of tax awareness and compliance within the organization.Process Improvements & System Enhancements:• Maximized system capabilities to minimize potential human errors, streamlining operations and improving data accuracy.• Coordinated with the IT team to enhance tax-related reporting, ensuring more efficient and reliable processes.Team Development & Mentorship:• Provided coaching and mentorship to junior tax team members, nurturing their growth and fostering a collaborative work environment.I continuously strived to deliver exceptional tax services and drive value for the organization. By combining expertise in international taxation, process optimization, and team development, I was committed to contributing to the company’s success and fostering a culture of growth and compliance. Show less

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  Canon EMEA

  Jan 2024 - now

  Regional Tax Specialist

  Supporting the Group’s general tax compliance in the Middle East and African regions.