Tax Manager - Private Client Services (PCS)

Ascend Partner Firms•Irvine, CA

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

As a Tax Manager - Private Client Services at Lucas Horsfall, you will lead fiduciary accounting for complex private clients, including multigenerational family engagements with multiple partnerships and extensive trust structures with numerous sub-trusts. This role involves technical tax review, hands-on oversight of trust accounting, and quarterly beneficiary distributions. You will manage clients independently, utilizing your project management, analytical, interpersonal, and communication skills. Responsibilities include training and supervision of staff, conducting tax research, and advising on tax matters. The company fosters a team-oriented environment that emphasizes quality work, excellent customer relations, and a friendly, superior working environment.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or related field.
5-10+ years of public accounting tax experience, with significant partnership and fiduciary/trust compliance work.
Demonstrated experience reviewing complex returns and supervising staff.
Excellent project management, analytical, interpersonal, and communication skills.
Self-motivator with the ability to multi-task and complete assignments within time constraints and deadlines.
A strong desire toward career advancement and goal toward future firm ownership.

Nice To Haves

Licensed CPA or Attorney.
Hands on trust or fiduciary accounting experience.
Consultative/Advising Experience.
Knowledge of CCH Axcess Tax.

Responsibilities

Oversee preparation and review of financial statements and supporting schedules for trusts and sub-trusts.
Review quarterly trust accounting, including bank reconciliations and the recording and reconciliation of investment activity.
Manage quarterly distributions to beneficiaries, including distribution calculations, approvals, and disbursements.
Assist with annual financial statement audits, including communications and documents requested by outside auditors.
Supervise, review, and develop the staff accountants and return preparers supporting these engagements.
Work closely with the engagement partners, keeping them informed of status, issues, and risks.
Serve as a primary day-to-day contact for trustees, fiduciaries, and beneficiaries, delivering responsive, high-touch service.
Maintain strict confidentiality and discretion in all client matters.
Coordinate with clients’ external advisors, including attorneys, investment managers, and banks.
Manage the full compliance cycle for these engagements, coordinating deadlines, tax return extensions, tax estimates, and deliverables across all entities.
Review partnership (Form 1065) and fiduciary (Form 1041) income tax returns prepared by staff and senior accountants.
Provide tax planning and consulting for partnerships, trusts, and individual beneficiaries as needs arise.