Tax Manager

Role PurposeThe Tax Manager serves as a technical tax expert and client advisor, overseeing the preparation and review of complex tax returns while providing strategic tax planning guidance. This role combines deep technical knowledge with client relationship management to ensure compliance, minimize tax liabilities, and deliver exceptional service that positions LUCA as a trusted tax advisor.The Big WinShould you excel in this role — The big win is to become a trusted tax advisor who transforms complex tax regulations into strategic advantages for clients while building and mentoring a high-performing tax team. You'll develop deep expertise that allows clients to navigate tax challenges with confidence while creating efficient processes that ensure accuracy and compliance. By mastering both technical tax knowledge and client advisory skills, you'll help clients make informed decisions that optimize their tax positions and support their business goals, establishing LUCA as their indispensable tax partner.Core ResponsibilitiesTax Compliance & Technical ExcellenceOversee preparation and review of federal, state, and local tax returns for individuals, corporations, partnerships, trusts, and nonprofitsEnsure compliance with all applicable tax laws and regulations across multiple jurisdictionsDevelop and implement tax planning strategies to minimize tax liabilities and maximize client benefitsStay current with changes in tax laws and regulations, communicating impact to clients and staffConduct complex tax research to resolve technical issues and support tax positionsPrepare technical tax memoranda and documentation to support strategies and positionsClient Advisory & Relationship ManagementServe as primary tax contact for assigned clients, managing relationships and expectationsConduct client meetings to discuss tax planning strategies and address tax-related issuesProvide proactive tax advice and recommendations based on clients' financial situations and goalsMonitor engagement budgets, overages, and billing to ensure profitabilityCoordinate with Client Directors and Controllers to integrate tax planning with overall financial strategyManage client portfolio of diverse entities including individuals, corporations, partnerships, trusts, and nonprofitsTeam Development & Staff SupervisionSupervise and mentor junior tax staff, providing guidance for professional developmentReview work prepared by junior staff for accuracy and completenessProvide constructive feedback and coaching to support skill advancementParticipate in performance evaluations and hiring processes for tax team membersFacilitate knowledge transfer and cross-training within the tax teamLead team of 2-5 junior tax professionals, coordinating workload and developmentProcess Improvement & Quality ControlIdentify opportunities to improve tax processes and procedures for enhanced efficiency and accuracyImplement best practices and leverage technology to streamline tax preparation and reviewEnsure proper documentation and record-keeping for all tax-related activitiesMaintain quality control standards with 99%+ accuracy and zero compliance penaltiesCollaborate with other departments to optimize workflow and resource allocationLead process optimization initiatives that improve team productivity and client serviceTime Allocation & MetricsClient work and tax preparation: 60-70% of timeTeam development and supervision: 20% of timeBusiness development and client relationship management: 15% of timeProcess improvement and professional development: 5% of timeClient satisfaction: Maintain 8.5+ out of 10 satisfaction scoresTeam retention: 85%+ annual retention of direct reportsEngagement profitability: Meet or exceed budgets with minimal overagesProfessional Development RequirementsCPA or EA certification (preferred)5-10 years progressive tax experience2-5 years in senior role3-7 years experience with federal tax codes3-7 years experience with state tax codes3-5 years team management experience3-5 years managing complex client portfoliosStrong research and technical writing skillsExceptional communication, project management, and interpersonal skillsCareer PathThis role leads to advancement as Director of Tax, with potential pathways toward partner-level positions or specialized practice leadership roles. The Tax Manager position provides exposure to complex client relationships, team leadership responsibilities, and business development opportunities that prepare candidates for senior leadership positions within LUCA's tax practice or broader organizational leadership.Alignment with LUCA's ValuesThe Tax Manager embodies LUCA's values in specific ways:Simplify the complicated: Translates complex tax regulations into clear, actionable guidance for clients and team membersBring joy and light to every conversation: Approaches tax challenges with optimism and solution-focused thinkingProactively problem solve: Anticipates tax issues and identifies planning opportunities before they become criticalGround confidence in competence: Maintains deep technical expertise while continuously expanding knowledge of tax law changesFinish the job: Ensures all tax deliverables meet the highest standards of accuracy and complianceBe fanatically attentive to consistency and detail: Maintains meticulous standards in tax preparation, review, and advisory services