Head of State Tax Audits & Planning

American Honda Motor Co., Inc. • Torrance, CA

7d

About The Position

The State Tax Principal Specialist contributes to the overall mission and goals of AHM by reducing state and local tax risk and providing strategic state tax planning and advisory support to the tax division and business units.
This role is responsible for managing state and local tax audits, including MTC audits; reviewing and advising on the state tax impact of federal and state legislation; providing tax advice to the compliance group; leading state planning initiatives, including credits and incentives; and advising on the state tax implications of international provisions.

Requirements

• B.A. or B.S. required
• Minimum of 10 years of experience with state and local audits and controversy, including at least 5 years serving as the primary manager responsible for state audits and auditor relationships
• 5 years of experience with a Big 4 accounting firm or equivalent
• 5 years of experience with a multinational corporation with nexus in multiple states and experience with combined filings
• Strong knowledge of state tax legislation and the ability to review, interpret, and apply new laws
• Proven ability to provide state tax advice related to planning initiatives, compliance activities, and the resolution of state tax notices
• Excellent research and technical skills to manage complex state tax issues
• Strong communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with auditors, business stakeholders, and advisors
• Ability to analyze the state tax impact of law changes and ensure accurate financial reporting
• Understanding of how international tax provisions, such as GILTI, impact state taxation
• Ability to work independently and efficiently manage internal and external resources for optimal outcomes
• Strong cross-functional insight and a proactive, solutions-oriented approach to supporting teams across the organization

Nice To Haves

• CPA preferred
• M.A. in Tax preferred

Responsibilities

• Manage state tax controversy, including oversight of income and indirect tax litigation, audits, responses to state inquiries, and driving timely and strategic resolution of tax disputes. Maintain and manage the audit notice tracker.
• Work directly with auditors across all 50 states, applying technical expertise and research skills to resolve complex state tax issues.
• Evaluate the state tax impact of proposed business initiatives, legislative changes, and structural decisions, identifying risks and opportunities.
• Lead efforts to identify, evaluate, and secure state tax credits and incentives in collaboration with business stakeholders.
• Support the tax provision function by analyzing the state tax impact of law changes and ensuring accurate financial reporting and forecasting.
• Provide direction on state tax return positions, assist in resolving state tax notices, and proactively identify potential areas of exposure.
• Advise on the complexities of the U.S. state tax landscape, including the impact of non-U.S. company activities within individual states.
• Perform quarterly tax provision and SOX responsibilities, including management of financial statement state tax reserves.
• Supervise and support team members in their daily responsibilities, ensuring alignment with departmental goals, priorities, and timelines.

Benefits

• Competitive Base Salary (pay will be based on several variables that include, but not limited to geographic location, work experience, etc.)
• Regional Bonus (when applicable)
• Manager Lease Car Program (No Cost - Car, Maintenance, and Insurance included)
• Industry-leading Benefit Plans (Medical, Dental, Vision, Rx)
• Paid time off, including vacation, holidays, shutdown
• Company Paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
• 401K Plan with company match + additional contribution
• Relocation assistance (if eligible)
• Advancement Opportunities
• Career Mobility
• Education Reimbursement for Continued Learning
• Training and Development Programs
• Lifestyle Account
• Childcare Reimbursement Account
• Elder Care Support
• Tuition Assistance & Student Loan Repayment
• Wellbeing Program
• Community Service and Engagement Programs
• Product Programs

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees