Senior Tax Manager, Trust & Estate

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At Ascend, we understand the struggles that accounting & finance professionals face in traditional public accounting firms - from rigid hierarchies, overwhelming workloads, and the elusive work‑life balance. It’s time for a transformative change. We believe your ambition should not be constrained by outdated practices or opaque career paths. Here, you’re not just a number; you’re a valued member of a community that supports & celebrates your professional & personal fulfillment.

Our mission is to transform the public accounting experience into one where work‑life harmony is a reality, and where your career advancement is supported by a nurturing network and comprehensive resources. Ascend empowers entrepreneurial CPAs to reach their goals with an innovative growth model that brings our partner firms into the new age. Backed by private equity from people‑focused Alpine Investors, Ascend is building a modern platform for regional accounting firms that enables them to stay independent while having access to resources of a large firm.

These resources include growth capital, robust talent acquisition, best‑of‑breed technology, a catalytic leadership system, shared back‑office services, and modernized equity incentives.

Opsahl Dawson (ODC) was founded in 1979 in Longview, WA, and has evolved into the award‑winning firm it is today. We specialize in Accounting, Tax Preparation, and Bookkeeping with 175+ people across the United States. With 30+ years of proven service, we’re the go‑to CPA firm in SW Washington and have been recognized as one of the Top 10 Fastest Growing Accounting Firms by Accounting Today.

In January 2023, ODC joined Ascend, positioning us for strong innovation and growth.

We are looking for a Senior Tax Manager for our Trust and Estates team. Leveraging your expertise in trust and estates (706, 709, 1041) tax matters & client relations, you’ll manage a national client list, delivering superior service. As a trusted advisor, you’ll tackle complex tax issues, craft strategic solutions, and offer risk management guidance. Your forward‑thinking mindset will enhance service delivery, ensuring innovation remains at the forefront.

• Manage client portfolio, consistently delivering high‑quality service.
• Ensure accuracy and compliance with the preparation, review, and timely filing of all tax forms.
• Perform initial and/or final review of manager, tax senior, tax staff and intern work products.
• Enhance efficiency across project initiatives.
• Contribute to team empowerment & professional development by providing mentorship and supportive guidance.
• Stay up to date with tax regulations, conduct diligent research, and provide consultation on intricate tax matters.
• Contribute to business development and departmental efficiency enhancements.

• CPA or EA
• Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or related field
• 10+ years of public accounting experience
• Trust & Estate tax expertise
• Experience directly managing and interacting with clients through a variety of channels
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Attention to detail
• Proficiency with tax preparation and accounting software

• Advanced knowledge of applicable accounting software:
  Quick Books, CCH Axcess, Engagement, Thomson Reuters, or Ultra Tax
• Substantial knowledge of 706, 709, 1040, 1041, Partnerships, S‑Corps, and 1099
• Experience in individual clients, high net worth individuals, trust & estates, state tax, and pensions

At Opsahl Dawson, we’ve designed a flexible work structure that enables both teamwork and independence, enhancing our employees’ work experience while promoting personal well‑being. This role can primarily sit out of our Bellevue, Kelso, Lacey, or Vancouver, WA offices, with hybrid flexibility.

• Unlimited PTO
• Medical, Dental, Vision, & Voluntary Insurance Options
• 401(k) Matching
• Discretionary Bonus
• 12 Paid Holidays
• Flexible Scheduling Options
• Innovative Workplan System
• $500 annual Vacation Incentive
• Firm‑wide shutdown Dec 24 – Jan 1
• Commitment to…