Technical Tax Director

Who We Are

About Ascend

At Ascend, we recognize the struggles that accounting & finance professionals face in traditional firms—from rigid hierarchies and overwhelming workloads to the elusive work-life balance. We believe your ambition should not be constrained by outdated practices or opaque career paths. Here, you're not just a number but a valued member of a community that champions both your professional and personal fulfillment. Our mission is to transform the public accounting experience into one where work-life harmony is a reality, and where your career advancement is supported by a nurturing network and robust resources. 

We partner with regional, entrepreneurial firms and provide them with the resources and support necessary to thrive in today's dynamic market. This includes access to growth capital, robust talent acquisition, top-tier technology, transformative leadership, shared back-office services, & more. Founded in January 2023, Ascend attained revenues to sufficiently qualify as a Top 100 U.S. accounting firm within six months of operation. Explore Ascend, where your career soars without sacrificing your quality of life.

About GG Advisors

GG Advisors is a Kansas City area professional services firm located in Leawood, Kansas. We provide advisory services, including tax, accounting, part-time CFO, and business formation services. At GG Advisors, we are willing to help you continuously improve on various aspects of your career. When you choose to join us, you will be joining an environment where your goals are respected and where you'll work collaboratively with other team members to solve problems. We will provide the technologies, training and procedures to perform your job independently and confidently. You'll also have the support of the partners to develop your own personal network of contacts and be actively involved in the community. 

In October 2023, GG Advisors made the strategic decision to join Ascend to usher in our next stage of growth. With Ascend’s partnership and shared resources – including technology, training and development – GG Advisors is well positioned for strong innovation and growth in the years to come.

 The Role

If you’re an experienced tax professional looking for a culture that supports personal growth, collaborative relationships, and innovative minds through a flexible working environment, we'd love to hear from you. We are looking for people that want to use their gifts and expertise in tax services to serve our businesses, their owners, and individuals.

Key Responsibilities

Be ready to jump in and make an impact! As part of our team, you’ll: 

• Partner directly with the current Tax Director to drive operational excellence and sustainable improvements.
• Act as a visionary for clients by providing innovative solutions and managing the implementation of ideas
• Oversee tax functions, including planning, compliance, and reporting, while aligning departmental goals with the firm’s broader strategic objectives.
• Apply specialist skills and strategic view to develop viable solutions tailored to different business environments.
• Anticipate and identify complex assignment issues, collaborating closely with partners or other firm experts to develop solutions.
• Demonstrate excellent consulting skills, gaining a deep understanding of client businesses and using this knowledge to diagnose needs and recommend strategic solutions.
• Facilitate discussions and forums, driving engagement and alignment across diverse groups.
• Develop and implement robust tax strategies to improve overall performance and minimize risk.
• Collaborate with the leadership team on firm management, tax department oversight, and future success initiatives.
• Retain and cultivate client relationships, focusing on delivering high-value service and maintaining customer satisfaction.
• Own client tax planning, tax provision review, and customer service, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timely support.
• Stay current on industry and market trends, conducting research and analysis of tax laws, rules, and regulations, ensuring compliance and advising on changes that impact the firm or clients.
• Develop clear, impactful reports to present complex ideas and insights to clients and team members.
• Oversee workflow, software usage, and tax processes, ensuring operational efficiency and alignment with organizational goals.
• Monitor departmental utilization, profit margins, and pricing structures to optimize financial outcomes.
• Lead and manage a team of tax professionals, providing coaching, mentorship, and timely feedback to foster growth and accountability.
• Communicate clear direction and expectations to staff and foster an environment of collaboration and excellence.

Required Qualifications

• Active CPA or EA
• 12+ years of experience in federal and state tax compliance
• Experience in Corporate, S-corp. and/ or Partnership returns
• Experience with individual clients, high net worth individuals, trusts and estates, and/or state tax and pensions
• Experience building, directing, and maintaining a motivated and empowered work team
• Exceptional communication skills for supporting a work team and strengthening long-term relationships with clients
• Proficient with tax preparation and accounting software

 Preferred Qualifications

• Proficiency with CCH Axcess 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 performer who embodies critical thinking and high standards. A proactive professional, committed to delivering outstanding service while embracing curiosity and innovation.

Location

At G&G, we’ve designed a flexible hybrid work structure that enables both teamwork and independence, enhancing our employees’ work experience while promoting personal well-being. 

What We Offer

Join our team and enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that supports well-being, health, and ongoing professional growth:

• Unlimited PTO
• Medical, Dental, Vision, & Voluntary Insurance Options
• 401(k) Matching
• Performance Bonus
• Flexible schedule, including 4-day work weeks @ 36 weekly hours during off season (April 16 - Dec 31)
• Parental leave
• Employee Assistance Program
• Commitment to professional development
• Equity Program Eligibility at Sr. Manager level (+ top performing Managers) and up

 How to Apply

Submit your information in the application section directly below! This will include:

• Basic contact information
• Resume/CV and optional cover letter upload
• Work eligibility, credentials, and compensation
• Voluntary demographic & self-ID questions

For questions or inquiries about the role, please reach out to Kim Chedgy, Manager of Recruiting at [email protected]. 

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.