Director of Tax & Advisory Services - Durham

Who we are

At McConnell Jones, we aim to be a catalyst for positive growth fostering an environment where unique perspectives come together to enhance client solutions. As the largest majority African American-owned and controlled public accounting firm in the U.S., we pride ourselves on the quality of our work, the tenure of our clients, and our own diversity—nearly two-thirds of our people are from an ethnically diverse background. The diversity of our people empowers the diversity of our client solutions, as captured by the firm’s tagline, Diverse Thinking | Unique Perspectives.

Our Mission: To foster an environment where unique perspectives come together to enhance client solutions.

Our Vision: To be a catalyst for positive growth through the power of diverse thinking.

Our Values: Creativity, Inclusion, Transparency, Accountability

What you will do

In this pivotal, hands-on leadership role, you’ll oversee our Durham office and drive local business growth, working closely with colleagues in our other tax practice locations and across the firm. McConnell & Jones is a dynamic firm with 160 employees and 7 offices, and our Durham team is primarily made up of tax professionals, with a few audit specialists. As the Director of Tax & Advisory Services, you’ll provide strategic direction, mentor local tax and audit teams, and be a visible leader for our office. Your focus will be on tax compliance, planning, and consulting for a diverse client base—including NFPs, consolidated C-Corps, partnerships, fiduciaries, multi-state entities and individuals. You’ll also play a key role in business development, expanding our presence in the local market.

If you’re a CPA with hands-on tax and review experience, a leadership mindset, and a commitment for small-office growth and culture, backed by the resources of a larger firm, we invite you to join us and become the face of our Durham office.

• Provide strategic direction and leadership to the tax team, ensuring high-quality deliverables and client satisfaction.
• Review and manage tax returns and planning projects; review compiled financial statements (Audit experience preferred, especially NFP, but not required if Tax experience is exceptional).
• Manage and monitor due dates for all client deliverables.
• Provide technical assistance to staff on complex tax compliance, planning, and accounting matters.
• Serve as a key advisor to clients, providing guidance on tax strategies, compliance, and regulatory matters.
• Assist as Co-Lead and/or provide technical and strategic support on CAS (Client Accounting Services) matters, to include managing complex CAS projects.
• Respond to IRS and state agency audits, inquiries, and tax notices.
• Manage office operations, including staff supervision, resource allocation, and workflow optimization.
• Actively participate in business development, including networking, client acquisition, and expanding the firm’s presence in the local market.
• Build and maintain strong relationships within Durham, Raleigh, and surrounding business communities.
• Lead, mentor, and develop staff; oversee recruiting, training, and performance management.

What you will need

• CPA license required and in good standing.
• Bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field.
• Minimum 8 years of progressive tax experience in public accounting or a similar environment, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or management role.
• Progressive CAS (Client Account Services) experience, or similar, with supervisory experience.
• Demonstrated experience in business development and office/practice management.
• Audit experience (preferably NFP) is a plus but not required for candidates with exceptional tax expertise and business development skills.
• Strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, tax software (CCH, Ultratax, etc.), and accounting software (QuickBooks or equivalent).

What we prefer

• Local market knowledge and established community connections.
• Willingness to represent the firm at community and professional events.

What we offer

• Hybrid and remote (determined by position) work arrangements available.
• Stipend reimbursement for home office equipment, cell phone and home internet.
• Paid Time Off (PTO) is awarded each pay period.
• 11 paid company holidays with 3 floating.
• Medical plan with HSA employer contribution, Dental, Vision available 1st of the month after start date.
• Company paid Long Term Disability.
• Company paid Life Insurance.
• Paid Parental Leave.
• 401k with company match up to 4% and 100% vested from day one.
• CPA and professional license & certification bonus.
• CPA exam review benefit with Becker CPA.
• Certification Reimbursement for CPA, CIA, CFE, CISA.
• CPE paid for 40 hours per year.
• Paid Volunteer Time Off.
• Fitness center available to Houston office employees.
• Employee Referral bonus opportunities from $1,000 to $5,000 per hired referral.
• We are committed to helping you thrive. Our wellness programs offer comprehensive tools, resources, and support to ensure you can be your best self.