Tax Manager
berndt cpaMadison (WI)
About the role
Overview
Trust And Estates Tax Manager:
Work for a Next Generation Accounting FirmMake a difference and have an impact on the lives of our clients. Berndt CPA LLC is seeking an experienced Trust and Estates Tax professional to join our growing tax advisory team. This role is ideal for a seasoned tax professional with deep experience in fiduciary, estate, and high-net-worth individual taxation who is ready to play a key role in client relationships, technical leadership, and team collaboration. Our firm takes a proactive, advisory first approach to tax. We work closely with individuals, families, and business owners throughout the year, providing insight, strategy, and guidance well beyond compliance. Why Berndt CPATop 5 Small Business - Top Places to Work (Wisconsin State Journal)3-time Inc. 5000 WinnerPeople\'s Choice Awards - Best CPA FirmDane County Small Business of the Year Forward-thinking firm with a strong advisory focus No audit, review, or independence-based compliance work-we are our clients\' most trusted advisors Work Hours January-April: Average 53 hours per week All other months: Average 36 hours per week
Position Overview:
The Trust and Estates Tax Manager will serve as a technical and advisory resource for fiduciary and estate tax matters while managing client relationships and collaborating closely with partners, advisors, and tax team members. This role blends advanced technical expertise, client advisory services, mentoring, and relationship development. This position is well suited for someone who enjoys building long-term client relationships, working as part of a collaborative team, and contributing to the firm\'s continued growth.
Key Responsibilities:
- Prepare and review fiduciary (Form 1041), estate, gift, and individual income tax returns for high-net-worth clients
- Provide proactive tax planning and advisory services related to estates, trusts, wealth transfer, and succession planning
- Advise clients and their legal/financial advisors on complex trust and estate tax matters
- Research and resolve complex tax issues; communicate findings clearly to clients and internal teams
- Manage IRS and state tax notices, audits, and examinations related to trust and estate matters
- Serve as a primary point of contact for assigned clients, building trusted, long-term relationships
- Participate in client meetings and planning discussions alongside partners and advisors
- Mentor and support tax staff through technical guidance, review, and training
- Collaborate with team members across tax, accounting, and advisory services to deliver integrated solutions
- Contribute to client retention and firm growth through relationship development and advisory opportunities
Qualifications:
- Bachelor\'s degree in accounting (required)CPA certification (required)7-10 years of progressive tax experience, with significant focus on trusts, estates, and high-net-worth individuals
- Strong technical knowledge of fiduciary, estate, gift, and individual income taxation
- Experience reviewing tax returns and providing technical guidance to staff
- Ability to manage multiple clients, priorities, and deadlines
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Client-focused mindset with a desire to build and develop long-term relationships
- Collaborative team player with a proactive, advisory approach
- High level of integrity, professionalism, and attention to detail
- Work-Life Balance
Berndt CPA is committed to providing an environment where team members are professionally challenged while maintaining meaningful time outside of work. We believe sustainable success comes from balance, flexibility, and mutual support.
Ready to Grow Your Career?
If you are a trust and estates tax professional looking to deepen client relationships, expand your advisory impact, and be part of a collaborative, forward-thinking team, we encourage you to apply.
Apply Confidentially:
Please submit a letter of interest, resume, and salary requirements. Be sure to reference the position in the subject line. Berndt CPA LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
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