WCoTA: 30 years of fellowship and service

Offering a vibrant community for everyone who has worked in tax – and undoubtedly to all who read Tax Adviser – the Worshipful Company of Tax Advisers brings together like-minded professionals at every stage of their tax career. Members share an enthusiasm for discussing the tax issues of the day, socialising and contributing to the charitable and civic life of the City.

The concept of a livery company for tax advisers was first envisioned by board members of the Chartered Institute of Taxation, including Roy Jennings (who became the Company’s first Master), Ian Luder, Michael Squires, Erica Stary, John Jeffrey-Cook and Robin Ivison. Originally founded as a Guild in 1995, it became the City of London’s 107th Livery Company in 2005. On 8 July 2009, Her Majesty the Queen granted the Company a Royal Charter, which was formally presented by HRH The Duke of Gloucester KG GCVO on 13 May 2010 in The Great Hall of St Bartholomew’s Hospital.

To mark its 30th anniversary, the Company held a celebratory reception at The Shard in May, and in the autumn launched a series of webinars on tax‑related topics. On 20 October, Chris Sanger, one of the UK’s leading commentators on tax policy, explored the task facing the Chancellor in the Autumn Budget. On 3 November, Liveryman Tom Wallace, WTT’s Director for Tax Dispute Resolution and their HMRC Litigation Specialist, shared his extensive experience of HMRC Tax Investigations. The series will continue throughout 2026.

The Worshipful Company of Tax Advisers continues to enhance the standing of the tax profession in the City of London, complementing the work of the Chartered Institute of Taxation and the Association of Taxation Technicians. It promotes tax education through student bursaries and prizes to encourage new entrants to the profession, supports charitable and benevolent causes linked to taxation and the City, and fosters fellowship among tax professionals.

From formal dinners in London’s historic livery halls, Guildhall and Mansion House, to visits to historic buildings and networking events across the City, the Company offers members a full programme of professional and social engagement. It also plays an active role in supporting the Lord Mayor of London – three of its Liverymen have served in this distinguished office – and participates in the City’s business, governance and ceremonial life.

For more information about The Worshipful Company of Tax Advisers and its professional, charitable, social and civic activities, visit www.taxadvisers.org.uk or contact the Clerk at [email protected].