Mark Taylor

Mark is a member of Buzzacott’s Executive Committee and a recognised expert in contentious tax matters. Before joining the firm, he served as a Senior Tax Inspector and accredited Financial Investigator in HMRC's specialist investigation teams.

Tax Investigations and Dispute Resolution

Mark's experience inside HMRC gives Buzzacott's clients a significant advantage. He understands how investigators assess risk, develop enquiries and pursue disputes, enabling matters to be handled efficiently and effectively. Where irregularities have arisen, he helps clients achieve the best possible outcome while seeking to minimise tax liabilities, interest and penalties wherever possible. In the most serious cases, he assists clients in avoiding criminal investigation and asset confiscation proceedings.

Mark serves on the Compliance & Investigations Committee of the ICAEW Tax Faculty, through which he engages directly with HMRC policymakers on current and future enforcement initiatives. This provides valuable insight into HMRC's evolving approach to tackling tax avoidance and evasion and allows him to contribute to discussions that help shape future policy and practice.

Mark's success in resolving complex disputes with HMRC has earned recognition from Spear's, where he is recommended as a tax adviser for high-net-worth individuals facing HMRC investigations.

Troncmaster Services

Buzzacott's Troncmaster Services team is highly regarded in the hospitality sector for helping employers and staff distribute tips fairly and transparently while securing exemption from National Insurance contributions where appropriate.

Mark's experience with troncs spans both his time at HMRC, where he dealt with investigation cases involving tronc arrangements, and his career in private practice, where he has implemented and administered tronc schemes for a wide range of hospitality businesses. His regulatory background helps ensure Buzzacott's independent tronc arrangements operate in accordance with HMRC guidance, reducing the risk of challenge.

Mark also advises hospitality businesses on compliance with the Employment (Allocation of Tips) Act 2023 and the associated statutory Code of Practice.