Deputy Tax Leader – Cupertino, CA (Hybrid | 1–2 Days Onsite)
Location: Cupertino, CA Work style: Hybrid (1–2 days/week in-office)
Seniority: Executive Track – Reports to Tax Practice Lead
About Aardvark Tax Advisors
Aardvark Tax Advisors is a forward-thinking, people-first firm redefining what modern tax leadership looks like. Based in the heart of Silicon Valley, we support high-growth businesses, entrepreneurs, and individuals with deep expertise, sophisticated planning, and a collaborative approach. As we scale, we’re seeking a strategic and dynamic tax executive to help shape the future of our practice.
About the Role: Deputy Tax Leader
We’re seeking an ambitious and technically skilled tax leader to serve as the right hand to our Head of Tax. This is an ideal opportunity for someone who’s excelled at a Big 4 or large regional firm but didn’t see a path to partnership — yet still has the hunger, energy, and leadership capabilities to take a firm to the next level.
You’ll have a seat at the table to influence firm strategy, mentor rising talent, lead technical excellence, and ultimately step into a key leadership role across our growing tax group.
What You’ll Do:
- Serve as second-in-command to our Tax Practice Lead, helping oversee all aspects of tax operations
- Lead client-facing advisory, planning, and compliance across complex entity types and structures
- Leverage experience with equity comp, options, and long-term financial strategies for founder and investor clients
- Provide strategic input on practice growth, client engagement, staffing, and operations
- Review and elevate the work of a talented tax team, ensuring technical accuracy and developing internal capabilities
- Cultivate trusted client relationships and contribute to the firm’s reputation for excellence
- Help shape and implement long-term succession and leadership plans
What We’re Looking For:
- CPA required
- 10–15 years of tax experience, preferably from a Big 4 or large regional firm
- Deep knowledge of corporate, partnership, and individual tax; equity comp and planning is a plus
- Strong client presence with the ability to lead high-touch, high-value relationships
- Strategic thinker with entrepreneurial energy and emotional intelligence
- Team mentor and coach; able to command respect while lifting others
- Hungry for impact — ready to help lead, not just manage
Bonus Points For:
- Master’s in Taxation or JD
- Experience with Silicon Valley clients (VC-backed, tech founders, equity-heavy scenarios)
- Exposure to tax technology platforms like Axcess Tax, UltraTax, or Lacerte
- A desire to help build and eventually lead a practice
What You’ll Get:
- A clear path to leadership in a firm that values skills over hierarchy
- Mentorship from a seasoned Practice Lead, with the opportunity to grow into a partner-level seat
- A modern, balanced culture that respects your time and ideas
- Competitive compensation package ($175K–$210K+ DOE) + performance bonuses
- Full benefits, paid CPE, flexible work hours, and meaningful equity influence in the long term
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From $175,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
Experience:
- Tax Leadership: 1 year (Required)
Ability to Commute:
- Cupertino, CA 95015 (Required)
Work Location: In person
