For businesses developing innovative software, navigating the R&D tax credit process can be challenging. It requires both a technical grasp of the codebase and the compliance expertise to ensure HMRC accepts the claim. FI Group UK’s team of R&D tax consultants brings together specialists with the right mix of skills to manage the process from start to finish.
Here is an example of how a consultancy team could be assembled for a software client.
The Example Project
A UK-based technology company has created an AI-powered data analytics platform that dramatically improves processing speed and reduces cloud storage requirements. The business wants to submit an R&D tax credit claim for costs including in-house developer time, subcontractor fees, and rigorous testing activities.
The Consultancy Team
Lead Technical Specialist – Gabriel Aduculesei
As FI Group’s R&D Tax Lead for Software and IT, Gabriel brings detailed knowledge of complex codebases, system architecture, and HMRC’s innovation criteria. He would lead technical scoping, translating developer input into a clear, compliant claim narrative.
Sector-Specific Support – Adam Fitzgerald
With extensive experience in software and technology claims, Adam works alongside Gabriel to identify all eligible activities, including work that may otherwise be overlooked such as algorithm optimisation and API integration.
Compliance Review – Hiral Shah
Hiral’s strong background in compliance and financial reporting ensures project costs are accurately allocated and supported by documentation. She would cross-check timesheets, invoices, and payroll records against HMRC requirements.
Claim Integrity and Defence – Usman Hafiz
Usman’s combined IT and tax consulting expertise ensures the claim is prepared to withstand HMRC scrutiny. If an enquiry arose, he would provide both technical explanations and procedural defence.
Project Oversight – Dr. Fawzi Abou-Chahine
As Funding Director, Fawzi oversees strategy to align the claim with broader innovation funding opportunities such as Innovate UK grants or the Patent Box scheme.
Why This Team Structure Works
By combining software engineering expertise with rigorous compliance controls, this multidisciplinary team maximises claim value while reducing risk. Each consultant contributes a distinct layer of value:
- Technical specialists define and evidence the innovation.
- Compliance experts ensure documentation meets HMRC standards.
- Strategic advisers align the claim with long-term funding goals.
The Outcome
For the AI analytics platform in this example, the consultancy team would deliver a technically robust and fully documented claim, increasing the likelihood of HMRC approval and maximising the financial benefit to the client.
