VITA, one of the UK’s leading independent VAT advisory firms, has appointed indirect tax specialist, Elaine Shepherd, as an Aberdeen-based partner from the 1st of October 2025.

Elaine, who will be based at 7 Queen’s Terrace in the city, brings over thirty years of indirect tax experience in Big Four accounting firms, joined VITA six months ago as a consultant and now steps into her new role alongside fellow partners, Greg McNally and Craig Stobo.

She said: “I’m thrilled to be joining VITA at such an exciting stage in its growth. The energy sector, from oil and gas to renewables and decommissioning, brings some of the most challenging and rewarding VAT issues. Businesses are under increasing scrutiny, and I look forward to helping our clients navigate the complexity with clear, practical solutions.”

Elaine began her career with EY in London and went on to spend 12 years in the Big Four, gaining extensive experience across VAT compliance and advisory projects, specialising early in her career on international clients covering inbound complexities, and advising on supply chain operations.

She was one of the first to develop a multi-jurisdictional VAT database, authored publications on VAT refunds for EU/non-EU businesses, and trained tax professionals including speaking at international VAT conferences.

Following a spell in Houston, Texas, Elaine returned to Aberdeen, where she has worked in the Big4 focussing on the energy sector for the last 18 years. Elaine is a problem solver and troubleshooter, advising on compliance for the indirect tax requirements of the SAO sign-off process; M&A in the energy sector; and all indirect tax aspects of the vast upstream energy sector – including service companies who support this sector.

Craig Stobo, Partner at VITA, said: “Elaine’s appointment represents a milestone for VITA. Elaine, Greg, and I have known each for many years, and her technical depth, international perspective, and Aberdeen experience will add enormous value to our clients, whilst developing our offering to the Aberdeen market.

With HMRC tightening its stance on VAT compliance and businesses facing significant exposures if errors arise, her expertise in cross-border VAT, customs duty, and offshore supply chains is in high demand.”

He added: “With Elaine on board, we now have over 125 years of combined indirect tax advisory experience across the firm, making us one of the most credible, competitive independent VAT practices in the UK.”

Founded in 2019, VITA is one of the largest independent VAT advisory firms in the UK, with a team of six specialists. The firm advises on all aspects of UK VAT, with additional expertise in CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism), customs and excise duties, and indirect tax regimes across Europe.

VITA’s combination of deep technical expertise and commercial understanding makes it a trusted partner for businesses facing complex indirect tax challenges.