Tax Director (Business Management)

About Ascend Backed by private equity from people-focused Alpine Investors, Ascend is building a dynamic platform for regional accounting firms that enables them to stay independent while accessing the resources of a Top 25 firm to help them grow. Ascend provides access to growth capital, robust talent acquisition and training, leading quality management resources, best‑of‑breed technology, AI tools, an offshore captive, shared back‑office services, a catalytic leadership system, and modernized equity incentives so that firms can surmount today’s industry challenges to reach their full potential. About Lucas Horsfall Lucas Horsfall is a CPA firm celebrating its 68th anniversary in 2025. The firm values people and clients, offering a career in public accounting with work‑life balance, diverse clients, challenging work, professional growth, and a supportive culture. The Role As a Tax Director in the Business Management group at Lucas Horsfall, you will oversee the Tax Department's operations, protocols, and team development. The role directs the preparation and review of complex federal and multi‑state tax returns, provides strategic planning and client advisory services, establishes departmental standards, ensures compliance, drives service excellence, and leads and mentors all tax staff. It includes tax research, workflow supervision, resolution of tax notices, and direct communication with clients and tax authorities in a hybrid environment from Encino or Pasadena, CA. Key Responsibilities Provide high‑level review of federal and multi‑state income tax returns for individuals, corporations, flow‑through entities, and trusts; prepare and review quarterly estimates Work with clients and partners on tax planning and related tax issues Assume responsibility for client engagements and demonstrate strong leadership skills in monitoring assignments and planning staff workload, developing a system to monitor the completion of assignments in a timely and consistent manner Assist in management functions such as workflow supervision and planning, training and mentoring of staff, and developing and improving processes and procedures Conduct tax research and provide solutions on technical matters Respond to tax notices and interact with Federal, State, and Local tax authorities Effectively communicate with clients and engagement team; ensure quality of work Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or related field Active licensed CPA 10+ years of relevant experience, including significant supervisory experience Proven technical ability and experience preparing and reviewing all types of tax returns Excellent project management, analytical, interpersonal, and communication skills Self‑motivator with the ability to multi‑task and complete assignments within time constraints and deadlines A strong desire toward career advancement and goal toward future firm ownership Preferred Qualifications Consultative/Advising Experience Proficiency in MS Office Knowledge of CCH Axcess Tax and BNA What We Offer As a firm, we offer a competitive salary, tuition reimbursement for advanced education, and a comprehensive benefits package that supports well‑being, health, and ongoing professional growth: Flexible PTO Excellent voluntary insurance options 401(k) matching Discretionary bonus Commitment to professional development Meaningful work that makes a difference in our clients' lives Compensation The pay range for this role is $175,000 – $215,000+ per year. This range includes the anticipated low and high end of the pay range for this position. Actual compensation may vary based on various factors, including experience, education, and/or skill level. Equity Statement At Ascend, we provide a fair and equal employment opportunity for all candidates regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, age, marital status, disability, or any other legally protected characteristic. Ascend hires and promotes individuals solely based on qualifications for the position to be filled and business needs. #J-18808-Ljbffr Lucas Horsfall