Tax Manager: Facts, Skills, and Next Paths

A Tax Manager oversees a company’s tax compliance, planning, and reporting functions. Day-to-day work includes preparing and filing federal and state tax returns, performing tax technical research, assisting with audits by tax authorities, and leading tax planning projects. The role also involves reviewing tax provisions under ASC 740 and coordinating with internal teams on cross-border tax matters.

The position typically sits within a corporate tax department or at an accounting and consulting firm. For example, at KPMG, Tax Managers provide non-U.S. indirect tax advisory for multinational clients, handling VAT and GST compliance and audit defense. At Weaver, a national accounting and advisory firm, they manage a portfolio of compliance engagements while mentoring junior staff. Other core responsibilities include developing budgets, managing project schedules, and supporting business development efforts.

The median salary for a Tax Manager is approximately $131,000 per year, and the most requested skills in current job postings are Compliance (70%), Tax Compliance (70%), Analytics & Reporting (40%), Automation (30%), and Data Analysis (20%).