Tax Director

I. JOB OVERVIEW
Summary:
In the heart of the nation's capital, with additional programs in Virginia, the George Washington University (GW) was created by an Act of Congress in 1821. Today, GW is the largest institution of higher education in the District of Columbia. The University offers comprehensive undergraduate and graduate liberal arts studies, as well as degree programs in medicine, public health, law, engineering, education, business, and international affairs. Each year, GW enrolls a diverse population of undergraduate, graduate, and professional students. As one of the largest private employers in the District of Columbia, the University seeks employees who support the teaching, research, and public service mission of the University.

Responsible for and reviews preparation and filing of all required federal, state, and international tax returns, including, but not limited to, Form 990, 990T, 5527/1041-A, 1042, Excise Tax, Telecommunications Tax, etc. Requires contact and collaboration with various key personnel throughout the University to collect and analyze financial and related information. Directs the relationship with U.S. and international third-party service providers (i.e., tax compliance and tax consulting work). Oversee the daily functions of the Tax Department, which includes two professional personnel, and manage the tax compliance strategy for the Department.

Contributes to the professional development of tax staff to ensure necessary skills and competencies to carry out departmental functions. Supervises tax staff in responding to questions and advising Payroll Services, Accounts Payable, and University administrative and academic departments on tax reporting and withholding issues, including foreign national payments, worker classification requests, scholarship, fellowship, prizes and awards reporting, sales tax, fringe benefit reporting and impact to employee compensation.

Manages University compliance with Federal, state, and local tax requirements by maintaining an expert level of technical knowledge of IRS and state and local requirements, monitoring legislative tax developments, and providing a written analysis of the impact on the university. Creates, maintains, and enforces adherence to tax policies/requirements, advising supervisor and University officials on needed actions. Conducts federal, state, and international tax research to determine university compliance obligations for proposed transactions, including significant work related to U.S. filings for international activity, i.e., investments. Supervises service to international faculty/student population, visiting researchers, and guest lecturers, including providing guidance on the U.S. income and employment tax withholding and reporting required for payments made to nonresident aliens, application of tax treaty benefits, and preparation of Forms 1042-S at year-end.

Requires coordination with HR and ISO to ensure compliance with immigration and employment laws and with Payroll Services and Accounts Payable to ensure proper payment processing. Also supervises the Tax Department's participation in student orientation and delivery of tax return preparation seminars/support. Reviews and monitors University activities, especially ancillary services, and potential unrelated business activities, to ensure compliance with tax regulations.

Research and advise University officials and departments on tax consequences of new and proposed activities, including but not limited to unrelated business income, nonresident alien, employment reporting, and withholding issues. Monitors the University's activity outside the United States and manages foreign tax reporting responsibilities. Acts as the University's primary liaison with federal, state, and international tax authorities; coordinates and responds to all tax-related information requests.

Performs other related duties as assigned. The omission of specific duties does not preclude the supervisor from assigning duties that are logically related to the position.

Minimum Qualifications:

Qualified candidates will hold a Bachelor's degree in an appropriate area of specialization plus 8 years of relevant professional experience, or, a Master's degree or higher in a relevant area of study plus 6 years of relevant professional experience. Degree must be conferred by the start date of the position. Degree requirements may be substituted with an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

• Ability to effectively communicate complex tax-related information to management and other stakeholders.
• Strong understanding of federal, state, and local tax laws and regulations.
• Excellent analytical, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong leadership and management skills.
• A current CPA certificate is preferred.

How is pay for new employees determined at GW?

GW offers a comprehensive benefit package that includes medical, dental, vision, life & disability insurance, time off & leave, retirement savings, tuition, well-being and various voluntary benefits. For program details and eligibility, please visit /hr.gwu.edu/benefits-programs.

The university is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer that does not unlawfully discriminate in any of its programs or activities on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or on any other basis prohibited by applicable law.