Principal Tax Accountant

We engage the most inspired minds to do their best work wherever they work best—powering the freedom to create worldwide.

WP Engine is the most trusted WordPress technology company, powering over 1.5M digital experiences in 150+ countries for businesses of all sizes. WP Engine’s all-in-one platform enables customers to design, build, power, and manage extraordinary WordPress, eCommerce, and headless sites—all thanks to a nonstop commitment to innovation, award-winning WordPress expertise, and a set of core values that guides us every day.

What’s Cool About This Role

Now is an exciting time to join our team and become part of WP Engine's amazing growth trajectory! You'll work on a wide variety of tax areas with a focus on indirect tax (sales tax, VAT/GST). We are looking for someone who is passionate about working in a high-growth environment, building sustainable and repeatable compliance processes, and being a voice in shaping the future. 

As the Principal Tax Accountant at WP Engine, a leading web hosting provider, you will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the company’s tax functions. This includes developing and implementing tax strategies, ensuring compliance with local, state, federal, and international tax regulations, and managing tax risk. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in tax planning and compliance, strong analytical skills, and the ability to work collaboratively across departments to support the company’s financial goals.

The Day to Day

• Develop and implement tax strategies that align with the company's business objectives and ensure tax efficiency.

• Monitor changes in tax laws and regulations and assess their impact on the company’s operations and financial position.

• Provide guidance on tax implications of business decisions, including mergers, acquisitions, and other strategic initiatives.

• Manage indirect tax compliance filings and payments, including US sales tax, use tax, international VAT/GST, and other business taxes, and register in new tax jurisdictions as needed.

• Support the federal, state, and international corporate tax return process, coordinating with the internal tax team and external tax firms to ensure that returns are filed and payments are made in a timely manner.

• Assist external tax provider with the global tax provision (ASC 740) by providing supporting documentation, responding to inquiries, and ensuring that deadlines are met.

• Manage tax audits and liaise with tax authorities to resolve any issues or disputes.

• Identify and assess tax risks and develop strategies to mitigate them.

• Lead and mentor the tax team, providing guidance and support to ensure professional development and high performance.

• Collaborate with other departments, including Finance, Legal, and Operations, to integrate tax considerations into business processes.

• Support financial planning and analysis by providing tax-related insights and projections.

• Assist in budgeting and forecasting processes with tax impact assessments.

• Stay updated on industry trends and best practices and integrate relevant developments into the company’s tax strategies.
   

Your Expertise and Passion

• BA/BS in Accounting or related field.

• At least 8-10 years of experience in tax planning, compliance, and strategy, with a minimum of 3-5 years in a managerial or director-level role.

• CPA Preferred

• Ability to analyze and resolve complex accounting issues.

• Working knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).

• Interest and ability to improve workflows, processes, and recommend data management solutions. 

• Good communication skills, both written and verbal. Works well in a collaborative environment.

• Ability to remain flexible in a fast paced and rapidly changing environment.

• Sense of urgency and strong attention to details.

• Experience with NetSuite and Avalara is a plus.

• Experience in the technology or web hosting industry is a plus.

The Perks & Benefits

• Company Stock Options (Every employee is an owner in the company)

• Great Health Benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance)

• Fertility Benefits (IVF/Fertility drug coverage)

• HSA Company contribution $750 for employee / $1500 for family

• 401(k) with a 4% match

• Disability Insurance 

• Paid Family and Caregiver’s Leave

• Employee Assist