Tax Practice Leader / Managing CPA

Location Chicago, IL (Hybrid - Lakeview Office) Job Type Full-Time Compensation $130,000 - $150,000 annually + firm-performance bonuses and long-term growth opportunities About Us Lakeview Financial Services is an established tax and accounting firm serving individuals, small businesses, and other organizations in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood and beyond. Our clients value clear communication, accurate work, and the trusted guidance that comes from working with a local CPA firm. We’re a growing, entrepreneurial team where your ideas matter and your impact is visible. You’ll have the opportunity to shape both your role and the future of the firm. While our immediate focus is expanding our tax review capacity, we value initiative across all aspects of the business. This is a true “you get out what you put in” environment, ideal for someone who is self‑motivated, enjoys autonomy, and wants to play a meaningful role in building a firm. Position Overview We are seeking a Tax Director (CPA) with significant experience in tax compliance, review, client advisory, and practice operations. This role is ideal for a highly independent professional who can manage client relationships, oversee the preparation and review process, and serve as a trusted advisor to individuals and small businesses. This is a full-time, hybrid position located in our Lakeview, Chicago office. The ideal candidate is comfortable operating with a high degree of autonomy, managing a portfolio of clients, and leading engagements from initial data gathering through final filing and client communication. This role will be primarily responsible for: Reviewing and signing tax returns prepared by staff, including Forms 1040 (with Schedule C), 1065, 1120, 1120‑S, 1120‑H, 990, 1041, and related state filings Signing and submitting accurate returns, reports, and other communications to the IRS and state departments of revenue Serving as the expert point of contact for clients, guiding them through questions about the results of prepared returns and offering recommendations for future action items Identifying tax planning strategies and proactively advising clients on the impact of future business and life events Other responsibilities include: Assist in hiring, developing, and supporting accounting and administrative staff Collaborate with firm leadership to improve workflows, implement technology solutions, and support operational growth Maintain current knowledge of federal and state tax laws, regulations, and compliance requirements Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field Active CPA license (Illinois or reciprocal) 8+ years of experience in public accounting, with substantial experience in individual and small business tax preparation and review Ability to independently manage tax engagements and client relationships What We Offer $130,000 - $150,000 salary, plus performance-based bonuses after tax and extension seasons Flexible hybrid schedule and greater flexibility outside of tax season Professional autonomy in a collaborative, low-bureaucracy environment Direct impact on the growth and direction of the firm Your own private office in our Lakeview, Chicago location Paid time off and firm holidays Continuing education and CPA license support Medical, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) with employer match Long-term leadership, profit-sharing, and potential equity opportunities for the right candidate #J-18808-Ljbffr Lakeview Financial Services