Armstrong Watson appoints new Head of VAT and Indirect Tax

Armstrong Watson has appointed Paul Russell as Head of VAT and Indirect Tax, strengthening the firm’s specialist advisory capability across the North of England and Scotland.

Paul joins with more than 27 years’ experience in VAT and other indirect taxes, having worked at HMRC for 16 years before moving into practice and holding senior positions with BDO and RSM.

With experience spanning compliance, complex technical queries, strategic VAT planning and risk management, as well as high-value projects focused on identifying efficiencies, managing exposure and embedding robust VAT solutions, Paul’s vision is to establish Armstrong Watson’s Indirect Tax team as the undisputed leader in VAT advisory across Northern England and Scotland—setting a new standard of excellence.

Commenting on Paul’s appointment, Becky Bowness, Head of Tax, said: “Paul is an outstanding addition to our leadership team. He brings a rare combination of deep technical VAT expertise, senior advisory experience and first-hand HMRC insight—exactly the mix our clients need as the indirect tax landscape becomes more complex and increasingly scrutinised. His professionalism, calm approach and ability to translate technical issues into practical, commercial advice is exceptional. We’re delighted to welcome him, and we’re excited about the strength and ambition he brings to our VAT and Indirect Tax offering.”

Paul added: “Armstrong Watson’s ambition, culture, and its brilliant client base immediately stood out to me. My goal is to build the leading Indirect Tax practice across the North and Scotland, setting the benchmark for VAT advisory. I’m excited to embed VAT expertise more deeply across our offices, strengthen the support we provide to clients, and create a team that is delivering exceptional expertise and becoming an indispensable partner to our clients.”
Armstrong Watson is encouraging organisations to review VAT arrangements—particularly where positions rely on complex interpretations of legislation or where there has been significant business change.