Tax Manager / Public Accounting

Banyan Search • Hickory, NC

4d • Hybrid

About The Position

Our client is a full-service public accounting firm serving clients throughout a variety of regions and industries. The firm provides tax, assurance, and advisory services across a range of industries, including manufacturing and distribution, construction, real estate, transportation, and not-for-profit organizations. The firm takes pride in a collaborative, approachable culture and a strong commitment to client relationships and employee development. Banyan Search is seeking an experienced, dynamic Tax Manager to join our client’s growing tax practice. In this role, you will lead and manage diverse client engagements, review complex tax returns, mentor and develop staff, and serve as a trusted advisor to business owners and individuals on tax strategy and planning. You will join a collaborative team that values initiative and continuous learning, with a clear path for career growth, including toward partnership for the right candidate.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Accounting or a related field.
• Active CPA license required.
• Minimum of 5-8 years of progressive public accounting experience, including at least 1-2 years in a supervisory or management capacity.
• Proven ability to manage client engagements and lead and supervise teams.
• Strong technical knowledge of federal and state tax compliance and planning across multiple entity types (C-corporation, S-corporation, partnership, individual, trust).
• Proficient with tax preparation and research software (e.g., CCH Axcess, ProSystem fx, or similar); experience with QuickBooks a plus.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex tax matters to clients in plain terms.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills with an exceptional client service mindset.
• Self-starter who brings fresh ideas and is comfortable working in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Nice To Haves

• Master's degree in Taxation or Accounting.
• Experience serving closely held businesses, family-owned companies, or high-net-worth individuals.
• Prior experience in a public accounting firm of similar size and client mix.
• Familiarity with multistate (SALT) tax issues, or with estate, gift, and fiduciary taxation.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage tax engagements for a diverse portfolio of clients across industries such as manufacturing and distribution.
• Review and sign off on federal and state tax returns for corporations, partnerships, S-corporations, individuals, trusts, and estates, offering expert guidance on complex issues.
• Develop and implement tax planning strategies to minimize client liabilities and identify planning opportunities.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for clients: answer questions, anticipate needs, and clarify engagement terms.
• Research complex tax issues and prepare clear, well-supported technical conclusions consistent with firm policy and professional standards.
• Mentor and coach senior accountants and staff; review their work product and provide timely, constructive feedback.
• Monitor engagement budgets, timelines, and staffing to keep projects on track and ensure high-quality delivery.
• Assist with IRS and state tax authority correspondence, notices, and audits.
• Stay current on federal, state, and local tax law changes and communicate relevant updates to clients and team members.
• Identify opportunities to expand services with existing clients and support business development efforts.
• Collaborate across assurance, advisory, and other service line teams to deliver seamless, multi-disciplinary client service.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience, plus performance-based bonus opportunities.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with firm match and retirement planning support.
• Generous paid time off and a firm culture that genuinely supports work-life balance.
• Hybrid work logistics
• A collaborative, team-oriented environment with a clear path for career growth and advancement toward partnership.
• Continuing education support and opportunities for professional development.

What This Job Offers

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