Head of US Tax

Overview of the Function

Tax operates within Finance and ensures financial control and compliance with local regulatory requirements; in addition, the team partners with functions across the Firm to advise and influence strategic decision making that drives long-term profitable growth.

We achieve our vision by working collaboratively with a shared culture of respect and commitment to excellence and continuous improvement.

Role summary/purpose of job

The Head of US Tax is responsible for all aspects of the US Firm’s Federal, State and Local tax consulting, including communication with and providing support to the US leadership team. In addition, and working with the US Tax Manager, the individual will be responsible for all US tax compliance. They would also be a key member of the Global Tax team contributing to decisions on tax matters outside the US.

Key responsibilities and deliverables

• Working with the Global Head of Group Tax to develop and implement tax strategies to optimize the organization’s US tax position and provide guidance on complex tax issues related to US federal, state, and local tax laws.
• Identify and respond to current and emerging tax risks impacting the US business.
• Liaise with US Management group on tax related matters.
• Lead point of contact for US partners and senior Business Service personnel on US taxes as they impact the individual and the Firm.
• Partake in discussions on global tax planning including identifying any US implications.
• Proactively advise on potential US tax code changes communicating the impact on both the Firm and individual partners and sharing insight.
• Collaborate with cross-functional global teams to address tax implications of business transactions.
• Responsible for US tax compliance, including working with the US Tax Manager and local tax advisors on the preparation and review of tax returns and filings as well as evaluating the filing footprint.
• Participate in partner on-boarding and staff mobility discussions.
• Oversee the application of global transfer pricing policies on the US and ensure compliance with local regulations.
• Ensure adherence to the Firm’s established financial accounting, partnership accounting and tax accounting processes, making recommendations to improve accuracy, efficiency and compliance.
• Lead the Firm’s response to US tax audits and inquiries from US tax authorities.
• Coordinate with the Global Finance, Global Partnership Accounts and Global Tax team to support global reporting needs and processes.
• Maintain strong relationships with external advisors and stakeholders.
• Supervise and mentor junior tax professionals.
• Respond to enquiries and ad-hoc analysis, and other duties as assigned.

Key requirements (Communication/skills/experience)

Essential

• Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting or Finance.
• Knowledge of partnership and individual income tax.
• Experience of providing strategic and proactive tax advice combined with an awareness of risk.
• Ten or more years’ experience in tax accounting.
• Strong attention to detail and analytical abilities with a focus on accuracy and effectiveness while working independently.
• Organized and flexible with an ability to meet deadlines in a dynamic environment.
• Ability to prioritize daily workload while simultaneously managing multiple deliverables.
• Experience of working with senior management.
• Ability to build and maintain professional relationships across functions and geographies. Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word and Outlook.

Desirable

• Prior experience working in a legal or professional services environment.
• Experience with 3E

For individuals assigned and/or hired to work in New York and California or whose Manager is in New York, Freshfields is required by law to include a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role. This compensation range is specific to the States of New York and California and takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and training; licensure and certifications; and other business and organizational needs. The disclosed range estimate has not been adjusted for the applicable geographic differential associated with the location at which the position may be filled, and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. A reasonable estimate of the current range is $150,000 to $200,000.

EEO Statement
Freshfields US LLP is pro