The 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.

ABOUT LUCA LLC

At LUCA, we are seeking to redefine the way small- and medium-sized businesses connect with accountants and financial experts. Our clients trust us as their accounting and finance partners. In exchange, we work diligently to bring visibility, scale, and strategic advice to their businesses.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT REQUIREMENTS

• CPA or EA certification (preferred)
• 5-10 years progressive tax experience
• 2-5 years in senior managerial role
• 3-7 years experience with federal tax codes
• 3-7 years experience with state tax codes
• 3-5 years team management experience
• 3-5 years managing complex client portfolios
• Strong research and technical writing skills
• Exceptional communication, project management, and interpersonal skills

ROLE PURPOSE

The 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.

DAILY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Review assigned tax work items and prioritize based on deadlines and client importance
• Provide technical guidance and support to junior tax staff on complex issues
• Review tax returns prepared by team members for accuracy and completeness
• Address urgent client tax questions and coordinate responses with appropriate expertise
• Monitor progress on tax return preparation and identify potential bottlenecks
• Stay current with tax law changes through professional resources and continuing education
• Update project management systems with current work status and priority adjustments

WEEKLY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conduct team meetings to coordinate work assignments and address technical issues
• Review all tax returns completed by junior staff and provide constructive feedback
• Update project management systems with current status and upcoming deadlines
• Communicate with clients proactively about tax planning opportunities and filing deadlines
• Coordinate with Client Directors and Controllers on integrated tax planning strategies
• Monitor team utilization and capacity to ensure efficient resource allocation
• Participate in firm-wide meetings to share tax insights and collaborate on client strategies

MONTHLY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conduct one-on-one meetings with direct reports for performance feedback and development planning
• Review client profitability and engagement performance across tax portfolio
• Analyze tax team capacity, utilization rates, and resource allocation effectiveness
• Meet with key clients to discuss tax planning strategies and upcoming opportunities
• Prepare monthly reports on tax department metrics including accuracy rates, client satisfaction, and team productivity
• Coordinate with finance team on billing, collections, and engagement profitability analysis
• Conduct technical research on complex tax issues and prepare memorandum for client files

SEASONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead comprehensive tax season planning including resource allocation, timeline development, and client communication strategies
• Manage extended hours during peak tax season (January-April), typically 55-65 hours per week
• Coordinate with other departments to optimize workflow during peak periods and manage competing priorities
• Ensure timely client communication regarding tax season deadlines, document requests, and filing expectations
• Oversee accelerated review processes to maintain quality while meeting aggressive filing deadlines
• Conduct post-season reviews to identify process improvements and team development needs for the following year
• Manage client extension strategies and coordinate with bookkeeping teams for timely completion