Senior Tax Analyst, Reporting

Harvard University • Cambridge, MA

17h • Hybrid

About The Position

The Senior Tax Analyst, Reporting facilitates Harvard University's tax accounting and reporting activities in accordance with U.S. and state tax requirements and provides tax compliance guidance to schools and units. Within the Office of the Controller, the role performs complex tax and financial analysis supporting the University's tax filings, including Forms 990-T and 990, and certain other returns. The analyst prepares tax returns and analyses for executive review, identifies and executes book-to-tax adjustments, and translates complex data into meaningful insights and recommendations.

The role works with Financial Accounting and Reporting, administrators across the University, Harvard Management Company, school and unit finance teams, the Tax Reporting Manager, and other tax functions. Work includes identifying activities that may generate unrelated business taxable income and determining appropriate treatment under federal and state tax law; preparing sales, meals, and services tax filings; responding to sales and use tax questions; and reconciling tax accounts and resolving issues. The analyst also contributes to process improvements, automation, special projects, presentations, and evolving Tax Office initiatives.

The position reports to the Tax Reporting Manager. It is hybrid, with occasional on-site work as business needs dictate; remote work may also be possible. Work location and schedule are determined by the department based on operational needs, and hybrid employees working away from a Harvard location must work in a Harvard-registered state. The position has a 90-day orientation and review period. Harvard is unable to provide visa sponsorship.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience.
• At least 7 years of experience in accounting, tax, or finance.
• Cover letter required for consideration.

Nice To Haves

• Master's degree in a relevant field.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and advanced Excel skills; proficiency with Word and PowerPoint.
• Advanced knowledge of accounting principles, budget management, financial analysis, and financial modeling.
• Experience with financial systems and data query tools.
• Knowledge of nonprofit tax issues, financial statements, and related accounting principles.
• Excellent analytical skills, intellectual curiosity, and goal- and deadline-oriented work habits.
• Ability to manage multiple projects successfully and meet deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Perform tax and financial analysis in support of University tax filings, including Forms 990-T and 990 and certain other returns.
• Prepare U.S. and state tax returns for executive review and prepare ad hoc tax analyses.
• Identify, analyze, recommend, and execute book-to-tax adjustments to translate financial statements into data required for 990 reporting.
• Translate complex data into meaningful insights and recommendations.
• Work with Financial Accounting and Reporting to develop financial information for tax returns.
• Identify activities that may generate unrelated business taxable income and determine appropriate tax treatment using federal and state tax law, guidance, and research.
• Manage multiple time-sensitive technical projects with firm deadlines.
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual sales, meals, and services tax filings for Massachusetts and other jurisdictions.
• Assist with sales and use tax questions from departments and stay informed about changes to law and reporting requirements.
• Collect, review, analyze, and consolidate tax-reporting data with University administrators and Harvard Management Company.
• Design and deliver presentations to educate University audiences on tax issues.
• Collaborate with school and unit finance groups to understand University-wide financial management issues relevant to tax planning, reporting, and analysis.
• Perform tax account reconciliations and post-audit reviews, and research and resolve issues.
• Complete special projects as directed by the Office of the Controller.
• Participate in projects across the Tax Office, including international filings and payroll tax, as team priorities evolve.
• Identify and help implement process improvements and efficiencies, including automation opportunities.
• Analyze and report on assigned sections of Harvard tax disclosure forms, such as Forms 990.
• Collaborate with University financial administrators to identify potential taxable income and determine its tax treatment.
• Advise schools and units on procedures for complying with tax reporting requirements, particularly for unrelated business taxable income.
• Document and reevaluate Harvard tax positions, policies, and procedures in consultation with the Office of the General Counsel and external advisors.
• Provide staff mentoring and training.
• Ensure financial compliance with University policies and procedures, accounting disclosure requirements, and applicable legal rules and regulations.

Benefits

• Generous paid time off, including parental leave.
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one.
• Retirement plans with University contributions.
• Wellbeing and mental health resources.
• Support for families and caregivers.
• Professional development opportunities, including tuition assistance and reimbursement.
• Commuter benefits, discounts, and campus perks.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior