Chief Tax Strategist

Position Overview

The Senior Vice President, Director of Tax at The Whittier Trust Company is tasked with overseeing a diverse portfolio of high net worth clients. This role necessitates significant client interaction and a comprehensive understanding of fiduciary account management, including but not limited to trust administration, financial securities, real estate, taxation, and estate planning. A key objective of this position is to drive business growth through independent efforts and collaboration with various organizational teams, leveraging professional networks and direct outreach to potential clients.

Role Summary

Reporting directly to the CFO, the Director of Tax leads a team of eight within the Tax Department. This role collaborates closely with Client Advisors to deliver tax forecasts, alerts, summaries, and strategic advice. The Director is responsible for the holistic management of the Tax Department, which encompasses five essential functions: (1) tax preparation, (2) tax advisory, (3) brokerage 1099 generation, (4) IRA documentation, and (5) tax processing.

The tax preparation segment is managed by the VP of Tax Compliance, who directly reports to this position. This function is accountable for the meticulous preparation and review of tax returns for ultra-high net worth clients, including fiduciary, individual, pass-through income tax, and gift tax returns. Although the Director does not engage directly in tax preparation, they are expected to review returns and guide clients and trustees through the intricacies of the documentation, providing planning insights as necessary.

The tax advisory role is the primary focus of this position, requiring the development of tax models in Excel, drafting federal and state tax alerts, creating tax summaries, and preparing tax planning presentations. The Director will also liaise with external tax professionals, preparation firms, legal advisors, and tax authorities. Expertise in federal and state tax laws governing trusts, individuals, and pass-through entities, as well as gift and estate taxation, is crucial. Strong leadership and communication capabilities are essential for success in this role.

Key Responsibilities

• Engage with Client Advisors, clients, and potential clients on a range of tax advisory issues concerning ultra-high net worth individuals, trusts, estates, gifting, and partnerships.
• Participate actively in business development initiatives by fostering relationships with prospective clients and referral sources, supporting Client Advisors in client meetings, and engaging in marketing and networking events.
• Provide oversight for the Tax Compliance, 1099, IRA, and Tax Processing functions.
• Draft pertinent tax alerts regarding legislative changes and tax mitigation strategies.
• Compile and maintain tax summaries for clients, focusing on charitable contribution carryovers, gift and estate tax credit calculations, and comparative tax calculations.
• Research and analyze recent legislative changes affecting taxation.
• Review corporate tax filings at federal, state, and local levels.
• Prepare and review specific state and local returns related to corporate taxation.
• Utilize corporate technology to ensure accurate record-keeping and availability of tax resources.
• Collaborate with external tax preparation firms and estate planning attorneys.
• Travel as necessary to meet with clients and stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution; strong academic performance is preferred.
• Master's degree in Taxation or Juris Doctorate is advantageous but not mandatory.
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation is required.

Experience Requirements

• A minimum of 10 years of relevant experience, preferably with a Big Four firm.
• In-depth knowledge of federal, state, and local tax regulations pertaining to trusts, individuals, and pass-through entities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Word, SharePoint, and OneDrive.
• Familiarity with tax preparation software such as CCH and Thomson Reuters.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.

Personal Attributes

• Client-focused with a commitment to service excellence.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• High integrity and a robust work ethic.
• Team-oriented with a collaborative spirit.
• Highly organized with effective time management abilities.
• Meticulous attention to detail.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel as needed.

Compensation

A competitive salary structure, performance-based bonuses, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, long-term disability, and a 401(k) plan with company matching.