Performs and takes responsibility for a wide variety of diversified, complex, tax-related tasks and supervises other tax department personnel.
Essentials Functions:
Maintains regular contact with clients throughout the business year, which involves a thorough knowledge of the client and all facets of the client's business rather than mere routine attendance to immediate problems.
Prepares the engagement letter and any subsequent modifications, answers any questions the client may have so there is a complete understanding of the nature and terms of an assignment, including an estimate of fees, and sees that the engagement letter is signed by the client and returned before the start of the engagement.
Delegates work to tax personnel, and supervise engagements accordingly.
Plans tax work programs, including establishing budgeted time and scheduled dates, revising as necessary.
Responsible for Project Management, monitoring budgeted time and scheduled dates of completion, anticipating potential problem areas and questions that might arise, recommending solutions and revising work programs as necessary. Keeps senior management informed of all important developments in the work.
Knows the client's impression of the conduct of the engagement.
Understands the requirement and importance of peer review as part of the engagement process and ensuring adherence.
Prepares personal and corporate tax returns, including the most complex.
Approves all returns with the exception of those dealing with specialized issues that require the expertise of another manager or director.
Acts as a resource for tax personnel.
Performs more complex tax research.
Prepares tax projections and becomes involved in planning for more complex clients.
Becomes involved in tax planning for client situations.
Assists accounting and auditing staff members in client meetings.
Develops a general understanding of firm philosophy and tax opinions.
Reviews tax accruals and associated working papers.
Analyzes IRS notices and drafts responses.
Reviews IRS notice responses prepared by other tax personnel.
Represents clients before the IRS.
Participates in tax department administrative projects.
Assumes the responsibility for the smooth flow of tax returns.
Acts as director-in-charge for personal tax return clients and business clients.
Acts as key client contact person for engagements.
Bills clients and discusses fees with clients.
Contributes to the firm’s reputation by producing quality work with quick turnaround and attentive service.
Establishes good working relationships with all senior management and staff members.
Demonstrates initiative, creativity, and imagination.
Other Functions:
Exhibits time management and organization skills.
Manages recruitment, training and performance evaluations of other tax department personnel.
Develops entrepreneurial approach to client service and good working relationships with client personnel.
Maintains contacts with industry peers, develops network of business contacts, meets with prospective clients, and cultivates referrals.
Demonstrated ability to bring in new business to a CPA firm.
Accepts volunteer positions in community organizations and continues to develop industry expertise.
Writes articles and makes presentations.
Develops a broad general knowledge of economic, political, and business conditions.
Performs such other duties as may be assigned.
Job Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in accounting or other related program.
Advanced degree (generally law or master’s in taxation) or enrollment in an advanced degree program is desirable but not a pre-requisite.
Completion of career development programs designed to enhance management, communication, and personal skills.
Five to seven years' experience in accounting or tax return preparation.
Proficiency in use of computers, computer accounting software and tax software programs.
