Luke Webster

VAT can be tricky at the best of times. I see my role as reducing that burden and allowing clients to focus on what they do best.

As a VAT Associate Director here at Gerald Edelman, I support clients by ensuring that they comply with their VAT obligations and by recognising opportunities where they legitimately exist.

In our job, it is easy to get wrapped up in highly technical issues and to communicate in jargon etc. so the focus for me is always on providing practical solutions in a way that makes sense to “non-VAT” people”. I pride myself on my ability to communicate complex issues in a simple and accessible way.

I am very much a ‘jack of all trades’ when it comes to VAT, but sectors I have significant experience in are land and property, financial services, and Charity/NFP.

If you’re interested…

Throughout my 19 years in VAT, I have spent time in HMRC, the ‘Big 4’, and top 20 accountancy firms. These diverse experiences have exposed me to clients ranging from multinationals to sole traders and practically every VAT issue imaginable. I was also one of HMRC’s first externally recognised ‘Tax Specialists’.

What is the most exciting thing on your bucket list?

My younger brother and I have recently become F1 fans after attending the British GP last year and we are determined to attend the Monaco GP (one day).

What one piece of advice would you give your 10-year-old self?

Become a goalkeeper, you will grow tall and every team needs 3. Plus always have a side hustle (everyone seems to have one).

If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be?

Ben Hogan (if he would share his secret) or the guy from man vs food, he was always well fed.

Who inspires you?

My Grandpa. He is the best man I know. At 91 years of age he remains the head of our family and someone I hugely admire.