Harrison Gray Search has partnered with a fast-growing wealth advisory firm to find their next Tax & Consulting Operations Director in the greater Chicagoland area.
The Role
This is a high-impact, leadership role designed for someone with strong business acumen, a hands-on mindset, and a passion for driving team performance. You'll serve as a key member of the division's leadership team, collaborating with Regional Directors and senior stakeholders to align day-to-day execution with long-term strategy.
We're looking for an operationally minded CPA or EA with proven experience in professional services, preferably within tax, accounting, or financial consulting. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the systems, people, and culture of a high-performing organization poised for significant growth.
Role Overview
The Director of Operations will lead operational strategy and execution across the Tax & Consulting group, overseeing workflows, resource planning, team structure, and policy implementation. This role is instrumental in ensuring scalable processes, consistent client experience, and strong internal coordination.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic & Operational Leadership
- Lead process optimization efforts, including systems upgrades, workflow enhancements, and performance tracking.
- Partner with senior leadership to implement both short- and long-term operational initiatives.
- Oversee the development and execution of succession planning and employee development programs.
- Ensure operational alignment across regions and functions through clear communication and cross-functional coordination.
People & Culture
Hire, mentor, and develop a high-performing team with clear performance metrics and succession plans.Provide ongoing coaching and feedback to direct reports and staff across multiple offices.Create and manage staffing models to ensure the right team composition and resource allocation.Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement.Process & Infrastructure
Analyze and restructure internal workflows to maximize team efficiency and productivity.Develop tools and dashboards to track key operational KPIs, including employee utilization and service delivery metrics.Lead administrative and compliance functions, including financial reporting, budgeting, and internal controls.Serve as a liaison between the Tax & Consulting division and other business units to ensure integrated service delivery.Collaboration & Communication
Work closely with Regional Directors and other leaders to maintain cohesive operational execution across markets.Participate in leadership meetings and provide updates on team performance, budget progress, and strategic initiatives.Communicate effectively across all levels of the organization to align on objectives and priorities.Supervisory Responsibilities
Directly manage a team of operational and administrative professionals.Provide leadership support to subordinate managers, helping them navigate personnel decisions and performance issues.Maintain a consistent feedback loop with staff, including performance reviews and growth planning.Cultivate a transparent, inclusive culture that encourages innovation and open communication.Position Logistics
This role will ideally be based in Rockford, IL, but may also be located in one of the company's other offices in the greater Chicagoland area.During peak season (January-April), you can expect to work 55-60 hours per week .This is a full-time leadership position with cross-functional visibility and strategic influence.What You Bring
Education
Bachelor's degree in Business, Accounting, Finance, or related discipline required.Advanced degree preferred.Active CPA or EA designation is required.Experience
5-10 years in a senior operations or leadership role, ideally within a tax, financial, or professional services setting.Demonstrated success in people leadership, strategic execution, and systems / process development.Core Competencies
Strategic thinker with excellent problem-solving and analytical abilities.Proven track record of driving organizational change and performance outcomes.Excellent communication and interpersonal skills at all levels of the organization.Strong coaching, mentoring, and team development capabilities.Why This Opportunity Stands Out
Be part of an employee-empowered, mission-driven firm committed to doing what's right for both clients and team members.Help shape the operational infrastructure of a forward-thinking, values-oriented company.Work in an environment that emphasizes innovation, integrity, collaboration, and continuous improvement.Enjoy access to a wide range of employee benefits, development opportunities, and team recognition programs.Compensation & Benefits
Competitive base salary ranging from $127k - $175k, with additional incentive opportunities.Comprehensive benefits available on Day One, including :Multiple medical plan options and wellness accounts (HSA / FSA)Dental and vision coverageCompany-paid life, AD&D, and disability insurance401(k) with company match (Roth and Traditional)Generous paid time off, including summer hours and additional time post-tax seasonPaid parental leave and personal leave optionsProfessional development leave and certification supportWellness and fitness reimbursementsCompany swag allowance and exclusive employee discountsEmployee recognition programs and team incentive plans