The R&D tax relief sector has undergone major transformations, with stricter legislation, reduced SME relief rates, and increased compliance requirements reshaping the industry. As a result, many consultancies have shut down, and the market looks very different than it did just a few years ago.
However, for ambitious R&D tax professionals, 2025 presents new opportunities. While there may be fewer claims overall, competition has thinned out, and firms with strong client relationships, technical expertise, and compliance-driven strategies are thriving.
So, what does the career market look like, and how can you position yourself for success?
🔹 What’s changed?
Weaker firms have exited the market. Many consultancies that relied on high-volume, low-quality claims have struggled under HMRC’s stricter rules.
Surviving firms are higher quality. The best consultancies—those with strong processes, technical expertise, and long-term client relationships—are growing and hiring top talent.
✅ Career Tip:
If you’re looking for a new role, focus on the quality of the business, not just the salary. Look for firms that have long-term, loyal clients and are investing in compliance, training, and expert-led claim preparation.
🔹 What’s happening?
Larger accountancy firms already offering R&D tax services are expanding their teams to absorb demand.
Some firms that previously outsourced R&D claims are now building in-house expertise.
✅ Career Tip:
If you want long-term stability, consider joining a well-established accountancy firm with an R&D tax team. These firms are likely to be growing rather than shrinking, giving you career progression opportunities.
🔹 Key market trend:
While some companies are claiming less due to the lower SME rates, those still applying need more expert guidance than ever.
✅ Career Tip:
Rather than chasing high claim volume, focus on working with firms that handle complex, high-value claims. These businesses will always need expert advisors, even as overall claim numbers decline.
🔹 What’s driving demand?
HMRC no longer accepts vague or poorly documented claims, especially in software and engineering.
The best R&D tax professionals are those who can clearly explain and justify technological uncertainty.
The best teams prefer specialists who truly understand their industry, rather than generalist advisors.
✅ Career Tip:
Develop deep expertise in a specific sector—whether that’s software, AI, life sciences, or engineering.
🔹 Why this matters in 2025:
With compliance becoming more complex, loyal clients stick with firms they trust.
Firms that maintain strong client relationships are the ones that are thriving.
R&D tax professionals who can build long-term relationships with businesses will have more career stability and growth opportunities.
✅ Career Tip:
If you’re considering a career move, look at the firm’s client base. Do they have long-term, established relationships? Choose a team that values client retention and quality service.
The R&D tax market in 2025 is leaner, more specialised, and focused on quality over quantity. If you’re an ambitious professional, here’s how to thrive:
✔️ Choose quality over quick wins – Work for a team with strong client relationships, good compliance practices, and technical expertise.
✔️ Specialize in a sector – Becoming a software, engineering, or life sciences expert will make you more valuable.
✔️ Consider joining an accountancy firm – Many are expanding their R&D teams and offering long-term career growth.
✔️ Prioritize established consultancies with an established client base – teams with loyal clients are more likely to grow and retain staff.
Planning your next move in R&D tax? Let’s talk! Whether you're exploring new opportunities or adapting to industry changes, we're here to help. Contact us for a quick chat and expert advice on your career path.
