Senior Tax Accountant - (Early year managers)
The clients and structure of a larger CPA firm. The culture of a smaller one.
For more than 15 years, the 2 founding partners have built a firm that's deliberately stayed independent after leaving larger CPA firms. So while the team is small, it doesn't feel like a small practice. The clients, systems and processes are already in place, just without the corporate feel.
No private equity. No plans to be acquired. Just steady growth, good people and a client base that's become so busy they're now having to be more selective about who they take on.
If you're looking for somewhere you'll prepare the same handful of tax returns every day, this probably isn't it.
You'll work across everything from family 1040s to multi million dollar S Corporations and partnerships, alongside business owners, attorneys and clients with complex equity compensation. It's the kind of client exposure many people associate with much larger firms.
You'll prepare and review a broad mix of tax returns, build relationships with clients and work closely with the partners as you continue developing your technical knowledge.
If you've only worked in one niche, this is a chance to broaden your experience without moving into a much larger firm.
You will already have a solid foundation in public accounting, but they're not looking for the perfect career story. Some of their best hires came into the profession later or took a less traditional route. If you've built good tax experience and genuinely enjoy the work, that's what matters most.
Whether you're pursuing your CPA or EA, or you're already qualified, they'll support people who are invested in developing themselves.
A few things worth knowing:
- Independent firm with no plans to sell or be acquired.
- Partners who are accessible and still heavily involved in client work.
- UltraTax experience is helpful but not essential.
- A performance bonus that's more than just a token gesture. High performers are recognised and rewarded.
Busy season expectations are around 55 hours during the final 6 weeks, with additional bonus opportunities available for those who choose to work more. Outside of busy season, there's flexibility to take that time back. If you've put the hours in when the deadlines matter, nobody is watching the clock if you need a Friday afternoon off the following week.
If you're someone who enjoys tax, wants to work with interesting clients and likes the idea of joining a well established independent firm, I'd be happy to tell you more.
Not ready with a resume? Or want a bit more information before applying? No problem. You can still apply the old-fashioned way, or just reach out to start a conversation with Imogen via LinkedIn or the Distinct Recruitment website or contact her cell at 312-584-9844. She’ll be happy to tell you more about the firm, the job and the prospects before you commit further.
Imogen Talbot-Slack is a Recruiter with Distinct Recruitment. She’s been recruiting in finance for over 9 years, with a focus on public accounting firms across Illinois and Indiana. She’s not a career salesperson she’s built her reputation by actually listening to what candidates want, whether that’s better hours, a path to partner, or simply a firm where they’ll enjoy going to work.
Think you only have 87% of the required experience? Perfect - apply anyway. The CPA firms we partner with want diverse, interesting people, not corporate clones stamped from the same tedious mould.
Don’t overthink it. The worst outcome is a pleasant conversation about your career. The best? Well, that's where it gets rather exciting.
Ref: INDILL
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $75,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Des Plaines, IL 60018
