Senior Tax Manager

Senior Tax Manager – Ascend

We are looking for an experienced Senior Tax Manager to join Blackman & Sloop, which has recently become a member of the Ascend network. The role focuses on supporting dealership clients while also offering opportunities across various areas of our practice.

Ascend empowers entrepreneurial CPAs by providing growth capital, talent acquisition, advanced technology, leadership systems, shared services, and equity incentives. Founded in 2023, Ascend has already achieved revenue that qualifies it as a Top‑30 U.S. accounting firm.

A single‑office firm of approximately 45 full‑time staff, Blackman & Sloop is known for a positive culture, community involvement, and continuous professional development. Recognized by Accounting Today and Business North Carolina, the firm recently joined Ascend to expand its resources and reach.

• Perform initial and/or final review of manager, tax senior, tax staff and intern work products.
• Act as primary client point of contact for the firm.
• Identify opportunities for value‑added services by staying abreast of client business needs.
• Communicate staffing and workload issues to Resource Planning.
• Review and confirm assignment objectives, scope, and work plan with client.
• Resolve work product issues using firm resources.
• Contribute to the development and management of comprehensive strategies to meet all client needs.
• Identify and research technical issues to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local tax laws.
• Coach and mentor staff to enhance their skills and further develop their careers.
• Identify and pursue new clients and cross‑sell additional firm products and services to existing clients.
• Support the partner team in planning strategy, objectives, and budgets.
• Prepare and/or review monthly client bills.
• Anticipate, identify, and resolve complex tax‑technical issues.
• Effectively manage expectations regarding changes in project deliverables and/or deadlines.
• Participate in business development efforts by nurturing existing relationships and identifying new client opportunities.

• CPA or Enrolled Agent (EA)
• 10+ years of tax preparation and review experience
• Excellent project management, analytical, interpersonal, and communication skills
• Self‑motivated with the ability to multi‑task and meet deadlines
• Strong desire for career advancement and goal toward future firm ownership
• Strong work ethic and sense of humor are essential
• Ability or interest in business development and expanding client relationships

• Experience with auto dealership or related industry
• Consultative/advising experience
• Experience leading staff or teams
• Knowledge of CCH Axcess Tax, CCH Engagement, and Quick Books

A perceptive team‑player who excels in a progressive, collaborative environment, blending sharp analytical skills with exceptional communication. A detail‑oriented leader who embodies critical thinking and high standards, proactive, and committed to delivering outstanding service while embracing and driving curiosity and innovation.

Blackman & Sloop offers a flexible work structure that blends teamwork and independence, enhancing employees’ work experience and promoting personal well‑being. The primary location is Durham, NC.

• Unlimited PTO
• Medical, Dental, Vision, & Voluntary Insurance Options
• 401(k) Matching
• Performance Bonus
• 12 Paid Holidays
• Off‑season Flex Fridays
• Closed on Fridays for the month of June
• Commitment to Professional Development
• Equity Program Eligibility ager Level + top performing Managers

Submit your information in the application section directly below. The application will include:

• Basic contact information
• Resume/CV and optional cover letter upload
• Work eligibility and compensation details
• Voluntary demographic & self‑identity questions

For further questions or inquiries about the role, please reach out to Kim Chedgy, Manager of Recruiting at

At Ascend, we provide a fair and equal employment opportunity for all candidates regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, age, marital status, disability, or any other legally protected characteristic. Ascend hires and promotes individuals solely based on qualifications for the position to be filled and business needs.

Mid‑Senior level

Full‑time

Accounting/Auditing and Finance

Accounting