Senior Tax Manager

Ascend; Chapel Hill (NC); On-site; USD 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Unlimited PTO

Medical, Dental, Vision, & Voluntary Insurance Options

401(k) Matching

Performance Bonus

Commitment to Professional Development

Job summary

A leading professional services network is seeking an experienced Senior Tax Manager to support dealership clients. Applicants should have extensive tax preparation experience, strong project management, and excellent communication skills. The role offers career advancement opportunities and a comprehensive benefits package, including unlimited PTO and equity program eligibility.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of tax preparation and review experience.
• Self-motivated with the ability to multi-task and meet deadlines.
• Strong desire for career advancement and goal toward future firm ownership.

Responsibilities

• Perform initial and/or final review of manager and staff work products.
• Act as primary client point of contact for the firm.
• Identify new clients and cross-sell additional firm products and services.

Skills

Project management

Analytical skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Education

CPA or Enrolled Agent (EA)

Tools

CCH Axcess Tax

CCH Engagement

QuickBooks

Job description

Senior Tax Manager – Ascend

We are looking for an experienced Senior Tax Manager to join Blackman & Sloop, which has recently become a member of the Ascend network. The role focuses on supporting dealership clients while also offering opportunities across various areas of our practice.

About Ascend

Ascend empowers entrepreneurial CPAs by providing growth capital, talent acquisition, advanced technology, leadership systems, shared services, and equity incentives. Founded in 2023, Ascend has already achieved revenue that qualifies it as a Top‑30 U.S. accounting firm.

About Blackman & Sloop

A single‑office firm of approximately 45 full‑time staff, Blackman & Sloop is known for a positive culture, community involvement, and continuous professional development. Recognized by Accounting Today and Business North Carolina, the firm recently joined Ascend to expand its resources and reach.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform initial and/or final review of manager, tax senior, tax staff and intern work products.
• Act as primary client point of contact for the firm.
• Identify opportunities for value‑added services by staying abreast of client business needs.
• Communicate staffing and workload issues to Resource Planning.
• Review and confirm assignment objectives, scope, and work plan with client.
• Resolve work product issues using firm resources.
• Contribute to the development and management of comprehensive strategies to meet all client needs.
• Identify and research technical issues to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local tax laws.
• Coach and mentor staff to enhance their skills and further develop their careers.
• Identify and pursue new clients and cross‑sell additional firm products and services to existing clients.
• Support the partner team in planning strategy, objectives, and budgets.
• Prepare and/or review monthly client bills.
• Anticipate, identify, and resolve complex tax‑technical issues.
• Effectively manage expectations regarding changes in project deliverables and/or deadlines.
• Participate in business development efforts by nurturing existing relationships and identifying new client opportunities.

Required Qualifications

• CPA or Enrolled Agent (EA)
• 10+ years of tax preparation and review experience
• Excellent project management, analytical, interpersonal, and communication skills
• Self‑motivated with the ability to multi‑task and meet deadlines
• Strong desire for career advancement and goal toward future firm ownership
• Strong work ethic and sense of humor are essential
• Ability or interest in business development and expanding client relationships

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with auto dealership or related industry
• Consultative/advising experience
• Experience leading staff or teams
• Knowledge of CCH Axcess Tax, CCH Engagement, and QuickBooks

Who We Look For

A perceptive team‑player who excels in a progressive, collaborative environment, blending sharp analytical skills with exceptional communication. A detail‑oriented leader who embodies critical thinking and high standards, proactive, and committed to delivering outstanding service while embracing and driving curiosity and innovation.

Location

Blackman & Sloop offers a flexible work structure that blends teamwork and independence, enhancing employees’ work experience and promoting personal well‑being. The primary location is Durham, NC.

What We Offer

• Unlimited PTO
• Medical, Dental, Vision, & Voluntary Insurance Options
• 401(k) Matching
• Performance Bonus
• 12 Paid Holidays
• Off‑season Flex Fridays
• Closed on Fridays for the month of June
• Commitment to Professional Development
• Equity Program Eligibility at Sr. Manager Level + top performing Managers

How To Apply

Submit your information in the application section directly below. The application will include:

• Basic contact information
• Resume/CV and optional cover letter upload
• Work eligibility and compensation details
• Voluntary demographic & self‑identity questions

For further questions or inquiries about the role, please reach out to Kim Chedgy, Manager of Recruiting at [e-mail].

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.

Seniority level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment type

Full‑time

Job function

Accounting/Auditing and Finance

Industries

Accounting