Rachel
Haggarty

WHO I HELP

Software companies. Private companies. Global individuals.

HOW I HELP

Tax compliance. Cross-border advice. FBAR filings. Late filings. Federal returns.

SECTORS/SUPPORT

Technology. Private clients. Global mobility.

“MAKING U.S. TAX LESS TAXING.”

GUIDING GLOBAL CLIENTS THROUGH COMPLEX U.S. TAX LANDSCAPES

Rachel Haggarty is a Global Employment Tax Manager based in our Edinburgh office. She specialises in supporting both globally mobile individuals and international companies with their U.S. tax responsibilities. Whether it’s expatriates, inpatriates, or private clients with cross-border complexity, Rachel brings clarity to compliance and ensures clients stay on top of evolving U.S. tax obligations.

A typical week sees Rachel preparing and reviewing U.S. individual tax returns, guiding clients through foreign bank account reporting (FBAR), late filings and streamline filing procedures, and advising on complex federal and state tax issues. With over a decade of experience in global mobility tax, she understands that no two cases are the same, and that’s exactly what drives her passion for the work.

A GLOBAL OUTLOOK ROOTED IN CURIOSITY

“I’ve always loved travel and learning about different cultures, so a career in global mobility tax felt like a natural fit. From my very first role after university, I was hooked by the blend of client interaction and technical challenge. It’s rewarding to work with people from all over the world, understanding their personal circumstances and helping them stay compliant with U.S. tax, whether they’re heading abroad, arriving in the U.S., or managing life between multiple jurisdictions.

Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work at both boutique firms and in Big 4 environments. That variety has helped shape my approach and made me adaptable, detail-focused, and comfortable tackling everything from individual filings to large-scale mobility programmes for global businesses.”

CLEAR COMMUNICATION IS NON-NEGOTIABLE

“I know firsthand how overwhelming U.S. tax can feel, especially when someone is dealing with complex cross-border issues or behind on their filings. One of my core principles is clear, timely communication. I don’t believe in over-complicating things. I explain what clients need to know in a way that’s easy to follow, with no jargon. I also make a point of being responsive and keeping clients informed throughout the process.

One of the greatest compliments I’ve received is that clients trust me to take ownership of a situation and find a solution. That’s exactly what I aim for: to be a reliable, supportive partner they can count on.”

RELATIONSHIPS THAT OUTLAST THE WORK

“I once worked with a software company managing around 150 international assignees. The Global Mobility Manager ran a tight operation with demanding deadlines. I took the time to understand her internal pressures and made it a priority to meet her team’s expectations. Over time, we built a strong working relationship based on trust, open communication, and even a few shared laughs. We celebrated milestones together and became good friends, even after we both moved on from our roles.

Those relationships, built on mutual respect and shared goals, are the most rewarding part of this work. It’s not just about the tax, it’s about the people behind the numbers.”

FINDING THE RIGHT ANSWER, NOT JUST AN ANSWER

“One of the biggest challenges in global mobility tax is the sheer variability. Every client has a different situation, different home and host countries, different timings, and different treaty implications. It’s rarely one-size-fits-all. I enjoy digging into tax treaties, researching grey areas, and collaborating with international colleagues to find the best outcome for each person or business.

Another misconception is that our job is all about numbers. However, what really matters is knowing the rules, applying them correctly, and helping clients understand their responsibilities. That’s where the value lies.”

PART OF A TEAM THAT VALUES GROWTH

“I joined AAB because I was ready for a challenge that would reignite my passion for U.S. tax, and I’ve found that here. AAB is a growing firm with huge ambition and a team culture that’s collaborative, open-minded, and genuinely supportive. Everyone is focused on improving, not just maintaining. There’s a shared understanding that to stay ahead in our industry, we have to embrace change and keep learning.

Personally, I’m excited to deepen my understanding of UK tax so I can continue to add more value to clients with dual obligations. I also love mentoring newer team members, it’s so rewarding to help someone find their feet in this complex area of tax.”