Director / Senior Tax Manager in Vancouver

About the Role

Join the expanding Tax Advisory Group. This is a senior leadership position responsible for delivering advanced tax planning strategies, managing complex client portfolios, and mentoring a large team of professionals. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in Canadian private company taxation, a proven track record in tax leadership, and the ability to collaborate effectively with partners and clients. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to firm-wide initiatives and help shape the direction of the tax practice.

Key Responsibilities

• Tax Advisory & Planning
  • Deliver advanced tax planning and structuring strategies for privately held businesses and high-net-worth clients.
  • Lead and oversee special tax projects, including reorganizations, estate and succession planning, and cross-border considerations.
  • Provide practical, solutions-oriented advice that aligns with client objectives.
  • Stay current on Canadian income tax legislation and evolving CRA compliance requirements.
• Leadership & Mentorship
  • Supervise and mentor a team of 15 tax professionals, fostering technical growth and professional excellence.
  • Provide continuous feedback, conduct performance evaluations, and identify development opportunities for staff.
  • Promote a collaborative team culture emphasizing accountability, communication, and learning.
  • Support the training, onboarding, and recruitment of new tax professionals as the firm expands.
• Client Relationship Management
  • Serve as a trusted advisor to a portfolio of clients, offering strategic insights and proactive solutions.
  • Maintain strong client relationships through responsive, high-quality service and communication.
  • Collaborate with partners and other divisions to deliver integrated client solutions.
  • Contribute to client business development and marketing of the tax practice.
• Practice Management & Firm Development
  • Contribute to the management and growth of the tax department, including internal process improvements and marketing initiatives.
  • Ensure projects are completed efficiently, on budget, and in compliance with firm and professional standards.
  • Represent the firm at networking, community, and professional events to strengthen brand visibility.

Minimum Qualifications

• CPA designation (Chartered Professional Accountant) in good standing
• Completion of the CICA In-Depth Tax Program (mandatory for senior-level tax planning)
• 10+ years of progressive experience in public practice, including at least 3+ years in a senior tax management capacity
• Advanced expertise in Canadian private company income tax
• Proven experience delivering complex tax planning strategies
• Proficiency in CaseWare, CaseView, and TaxPrep
• Strong leadership, communication, and client advisory skills

Ideal Background

• Experience with mid-sized firms such as DMCL, Smythe LLP, or similar
• Exposure to Big 4 private company tax groups
• Proven ability to manage both technical tax work and client relationships at a senior level
• Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to balance business development and team leadership

Key Competencies

• Deep technical tax knowledge with strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Collaborative leadership style with a commitment to mentorship and growth
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• High integrity, professionalism, and client-focused mindset