Structured framework
What’s inside
Seven chapters taking you from diagnosis (do you need senior tax oversight?) through decision (build, buy or outsource?) to execution (how to scope and procure).
CHAPTER 01
When mid-market businesses need senior tax oversight
The five trigger events: international expansion, M&A, restructuring, HMRC engagement, capital events.
CHAPTER 02
The 12-question diagnostic
Score your business out of 24. Most mid-market companies score 6-12 on first measurement. Below 16 means action.
CHAPTER 03
Build vs Buy vs Outsource
Full cost transparency. Internal hire £136k–£226k. Big 4 retainer £80k–£234k. OHT £30k–£96k. Pros and cons of each.
CHAPTER 04
The decision matrix
Combined diagnostic score × revenue band × complexity. Scenarios where each option wins.
CHAPTER 05
What an OHT actually delivers
Strategic oversight, compliance review, HMRC engagement, specialist projects. What’s in scope and what’s typically out.
CHAPTER 06
Engagement scoping
Phased timeline: month 1 (discovery & quick wins), 2-3 (foundation), 4-6 (operating rhythm), 7-12 (strategic value).
CHAPTER 07
Procurement checklist
15 criteria scored 0-2 (out of 30). Plus seven specific red flags to walk away from before signing any engagement letter.