Certified Public Accountant
Firm Overview
Laird Law Firm, established in 1938, serves North Iowa with offices in Mason City, Clear Lake, and Waverly. Our team of attorneys provides legal services in a variety of areas including business law, estate planning, probate and trust administration, real estate, litigation, and family law. We are committed to delivering personalized legal solutions to the communities we serve.
Position Overview
The CPA will be an ambitious, self-driven professional with strong communication skills and a collaborative approach. This role combines client-facing responsibilities with oversight of the firm's financial operations, ensuring both client success and internal financial stability.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Client-Facing Duties and Responsibilities:
• Provide strategic tax planning and advisory services for business clients, including entity structuring, succession planning, and transactional tax implications.
• Assist clients with estate and tax planning strategies, including income tax and estate tax considerations.
• Prepare and/or review corporate tax returns, including Forms 1120, 1120S, and 1065.
• Prepare and/or review individual income tax returns (1040), estate and trust income tax returns (1041), estate tax returns (706), and gift tax returns (709)
• Advise business clients on tax-efficient strategies for business acquisitions, sales, and restructuring.
• Work directly with clients to address tax-related questions and provide tailored financial solutions.
• Manage and nurture long-term client relationships, delivering high-quality service and building trust.
• Review and submit 1099’s
Internal Firm Financial and Operational Management:
• Oversee and manage the firm’s financial operations, including trust accounting, internal financial reporting, and tax compliance.
• Prepare and analyze monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and budgets.
• Supervise and collaborate with the firm’s bookkeeper and administrative staff on financial matters.
• Ensure compliance with all regulatory and trust accounting requirements.
• Lead firm-wide financial planning, including cash flow management, budgeting, and profitability analysis.
• Oversee tax preparation and reporting for the firm and its attorneys and affiliates
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and automation within the firm's accounting systems.
• Develop and update standard operating procedures for firm accounting and financial management.
• Train staff in various financial processes, including compliance, reporting, and technology systems.
• Manage and oversee the firm’s 401(k) retirement plan administration.
• Consult with and retain vendors for hardware, software, and accounting system solutions to enhance financial operations.
This role is an excellent opportunity for a CPA looking to work closely with business and estate planning clients while playing a pivotal role in the financial management of a growing law firm. The ideal candidate will be eager to take on increasing responsibilities and transition into a senior financial leadership position within the firm.
Ideal Candidate Profile
• Experience: 5+ years in tax advisory, financial planning, and accounting within a professional services environment.
• Leadership: Proven ability to manage financial operations and oversee staff effectively.
• Strategic Thinking: Demonstrated skill in developing and implementing tax and financial plans for both clients and the firm.
• Technical Proficiency: Strong command of tax software and financial systems.
• Financial Acumen: Extensive experience in corporate, individual, estate and trust tax preparation, reporting, and budgeting.
• Communication: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills for effective client and internal interactions.
• Education: CPA license required; a Master's degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business is preferred.
Compensation: $100,000.00 - $125,000.00 salary based upon education and experience
Benefits
• Cafeteria Plan with Health, Dental, Vision, and AFLAC insurance plans available
• 401(k) (eligibility after six months) with employer match of up to 4%
• Profit sharing (eligibility after one year)
• Seventeen paid days off to start, plus seven paid holidays
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage
• Group term life insurance of $25,000.00, with options to purchase additional coverage
• Paid maternity and paternity leave
• Relocation expenses up to $5,000.00
• Discounted estate planning, tax, and legal services
• Annual license renewal and continuing education fees covered
Job Type: Full-time
Schedule: Monday to Friday
Location: Clear Lake or Waverly, Iowa (candidate's choice)
How to Apply: Each interested candidate should submit a resume and a cover letter highlighting relevant experience and why the candidate is a strong fit for this role.
Submit resume and a cover letter on our website: https://lairdlawfirm.com/careers/
Submit resume and a cover letter on our website: https://lairdlawfirm.com/careers/