Chartered Institute of Taxation strengthens Scottish presence

Chris Young has been appointed to the role of Scotland External Relations and Branch Support Officer for the Institute and its sister body, the Association of Taxation Technicians (ATT).

Mr Young – a policy and public affairs professional with more than 10 years’ experience in the UK and USA – joins from 3x1 Group, one of Scotland’s largest independent public relations and public affairs consultancies, where he held the role of Public Affairs Account Manager.

Reporting to the CIOT’s head of external relations, George Crozier, he will work closely with the Institute’s Scotland Hub Chair, Alexander Garden, and Chair of the CIOT Scottish Technical Committee, Moira Kelly, to help build the profile of the Institute among politicians, the media and wider public.

Another key feature of the role will be strengthening the participation of the organisation’s 2,080 Scottish members through the CIOT/ATT’s five Scottish branches.

Moira Kelly, Chair of the CIOT Scottish Technical Committee, said: “Chris’ appointment comes at an important time for the CIOT in Scotland as we look to strengthen our engagement with key opinion formers and ensure that our members’ voices are heard at the highest levels by the media, politicians and others involved in the tax policy debate.

“With a range of tax powers already devolved – and more to follow – the Scottish Parliament will soon be responsible for around half of all devolved spending.

“This represents a significant undertaking and our Scottish members will have an important role to play in ensuring that Scotland delivers a devolved tax system that is efficient and easy to engage with.

“Chris’ appointment is a welcome recognition of the importance the CIOT places on its activity in Scotland and we all look forward to seeing the fruits of this investment in the months and years to come.”

Chris Young added: “The CIOT has been closely involved throughout the tax devolution process, drawing on the expertise of the Institute’s members in Scotland and across the UK to inform and assist the work of parliamentarians and civil servants at both Westminster and Holyrood. Advising policy-makers on how they can translate their policy intentions into statute accurately and effectively, without unintended consequences, is a way in which tax professionals can really help the quality of tax law and administration.

“I am looking forward to supporting this work, and to contributing to the CIOT’s important role, as an educational charity, in improving public understanding of the tax system, providing explanation and engaging in debate, through the media and elsewhere.”