Job Title: Director of Direct Taxes

Role Overview
We are seeking a seasoned Director of Direct Taxes to lead our long-term tax strategy and oversee all aspects of direct tax compliance, financial reporting, and state/federal audit defense. In this role, you will define the strategic vision for the tax department, mentor a high-performing team of professionals, and act as a key advisor to executive leadership on the tax impacts of complex business initiatives and commercial transactions.

This is a high-visibility leadership role that blends technical tax accounting with corporate strategy. You will ensure the accuracy of income tax filings, lead tax-related SEC reporting, and drive process improvements through technology. The ideal candidate is a collaborative, culture-focused leader who thrives on developing talent while navigating complex regulatory landscapes in a high-growth environment.

Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Team Development
• Strategic Planning: Establish long-term strategic goals for the tax function; provide actionable insights and recommendations to executive leadership regarding complex business contracts, projects, and initiatives.
• Talent Management: Foster a high-performing team culture by overseeing performance management, succession planning, and the professional development of staff. Champion a culture of strategic thinking, innovation, and inclusivity.
• Operational Leadership: Manage departmental workloads to ensure balance and professional growth; champion an environment where employees feel safe, supported, and empowered.

Compliance, Financial Reporting & Audit Defense
• Tax Accounting & GAAP: Oversee the financial accounting and reporting of taxes, ensuring complete compliance with GAAP/IFRS. Maintain rigorous SOX documentation and internal controls.
• Compliance Oversight: Direct the timely preparation and filing of federal and state income tax returns, ensuring all positions are researched, documented, and audit-ready.
• Audit Defense: Lead interactions and negotiations with various taxing authorities, ensuring the protection of company interests during inquiries and audits.
• Forecast Modeling: Provide expert input on complex forecasting models, including the impact of tax positions on EPS and cash flow performance.

Process Improvement & Cross-Functional Influence
• Process Transformation: Identify and implement opportunities for process improvements, including the adoption of tax technology enhancements and automated workflows.
• Cross-Functional Partnership: Build productive internal relationships across Finance, Legal, and Business units to consult on specialized tax matters, including payroll tax complexities, withholding requirements, and other multi-jurisdictional issues.
• External Relations: Manage relationships with outside service providers, tax authorities, consultants, and industry stakeholders.

Qualifications & Requirements
Minimum Qualifications
• Education: Bachelor's degree in Accounting or a business-related discipline (or equivalent professional experience).
• Experience Baseline: Minimum of 8+ years of professional experience in a corporate tax function, with at least 3 years in public accounting strongly preferred.
• Leadership Experience: Minimum of 5 years of leadership experience, including at least 2 years of direct people management.
• Technical Mastery:
oIn-depth knowledge of federal and state income taxes and accounting for income taxes.
oDemonstrated experience managing external service providers and complex tax project portfolios.
• Core Competencies: Outstanding communication and executive-level presentation skills; ability to build productive, trust-based internal relationships; proven track record of influencing cross-divisional stakeholders.

Preferred Attributes
• Master's degree in Taxation, Accounting, or a related field.
• Active CPA license.
• Experience in complex, multi-state, or international corporate environments.

For temporary assignments lasting 13 weeks or longer, AllSTEM Connections is pleased to offer major medical, dental, vision, 401k and any statutory sick pay where required.

Additional Skills

(none specified)

AllSTEM Representative Contact Info

Account Executive:

Perry

Branch Phone:

(909) 244-1777

Location:

Houston, TX