Director, Tax Manager

Cresset Capital•Chicago, IL

About The Position

Cresset is seeking a Director of Tax Compliance to join its growing Tax Services team. The Director will lead and execute complex tax compliance engagements for ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) individuals, families, and their entities. This is a highly engaged, execution-oriented role: the Director will be directly responsible for the preparation and review of client tax returns, ensuring accuracy and timeliness, while managing related compliance processes and providing strategic tax planning and advisory support. This position is client-facing and requires exceptional technical expertise combined with strong relationship management skills. The Director will collaborate closely with internal family office professionals and external advisors to deliver a seamless, integrated tax experience. Leveraging technology and best practices, the Director will help scale and elevate the tax function within a dynamic, fast-growing organization. Beyond technical proficiency, the ideal candidate will bring a collaborative, entrepreneurial mindset, and a passion for building a best-in-class tax offering. This role offers the opportunity to shape the evolution of the team’s capabilities, contribute to thought leadership, and enhance the client experience. Reporting directly to the Managing Director, Head of Tax, the Director will play a key role in defining the long-term vision and growth of the tax practice.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or related field; CPA required (JD/LLM or advanced tax degree preferred).
7+ years of experience in tax compliance for UHNW individuals and complex entities.
Deep understanding of integrated family wealth planning, including estate and financial planning.
Experience with complex Schedules K-1, foreign reporting, and multi-state filings.
Ability to operate independently, manage multiple priorities, and thrive in a fast-paced environment.
Familiarity with UltraTax and/or CCH Axcess preferred.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and ability to adopt new technology quickly.

Responsibilities

Lead and execute client tax compliance engagements, including the preparation and review of complex federal, state, and local tax returns for UHNW individuals, trusts, partnerships, closely held corporations, and private foundations.
Oversee and participate in all phases of the compliance process, from data collection and workpaper development to final filing, ensuring precision and timeliness.
Ensure the accurate and timely completion of all client tax filings and related compliance obligations across multiple jurisdictions.
Conduct in-depth research and resolve technical tax issues that arise during the compliance process.
Collaborate with internal family office professionals and external advisors to integrate tax compliance with broader wealth planning strategies.
Maintain comprehensive knowledge of evolving tax laws, regulations, and filing requirements to ensure compliance and identify planning opportunities.
Utilize advanced technology and best practices to enhance efficiency, streamline workflows, and scale the tax function.
Build and sustain strong client relationships, serving as a trusted resource for complex tax matters and compliance strategy.