Head of Tax

At Gensler, we design for people. We leverage our global perspective and local presence to innovate at every scale. We’re not just designers. We’re tinkerers, craftspeople, visionaries, innovators, and thought leaders. Fueled by passion and entrepreneurial spirit, our people bring new ideas to solve the world’s most challenging problems, like designing a more resilient, inclusive, and equitable future for our communities and cities. 

Our people-centered, “People First” culture and “One Firm-Firm” philosophy promotes integrated teams that unite to shape the future of cities.  Gensler’s vision is to “Create a Better World through the Power of Design,” and we do that by our deep commitment to our clients and by fostering a collaborative, diverse, and inclusive environment that enables our people to create impactful solutions together. 

Your Role 

Gensler is seeking a highly strategic and experienced Head of Tax to oversee and advance the firm’s global tax strategy, compliance, and planning initiatives. This position reports to the CFO and is responsible for leading all aspects of the firm’s tax function, including corporate income tax, indirect taxes, transfer pricing, and tax risk management while collaborating closely with Finance, Legal, and Business leadership to support Gensler’s continued international growth and operational excellence.

As Head of Tax, you will own global end‑to‑end tax strategy, planning, and compliance across a complex, multinational professional services organization. You will serve as a trusted advisor to senior Finance, Legal, and business leaders while building and leading a high‑performing global tax function.

This role is ideal for a tax leader who thrives in dynamic environments, enjoys partnering across the business, and wants to help shape the future of a global, purpose‑driven firm.

**This position is based on-site in Gensler's Los Angeles office 5 days a week**

What You Will Do 

 Lead Global Tax Strategy & Planning

• Design and implement enterprise‑wide tax strategies aligned with business objectives and long‑term growth at Gensler

• Optimize global effective tax rate and improve tax efficiency of legal/entity structures

• Identify planning opportunities tied to growth and market entry

• Provide strategic tax guidance for cross‑border transactions, mergers, acquisitions, and business expansions

• Oversee external tax advisors supporting planning initiatives

• Partner with Finance and Technology leaders to identify opportunities where automation and AI can improve scalability, accuracy, and insight across global tax processes

Own Compliance & Reporting Excellence

• Oversee global tax compliance and reporting, including U.S. federal and state, international corporate tax, VAT/GST, and other indirect taxes

• Ensure timely and accurate preparation of all required tax filings and disclosures

• Manage transfer pricing policies and documentation, ensuring alignment with OECD guidelines

• Review of tax-related disclosures for consolidated and statutory financial statements

• Manage external providers supporting statutory and income tax filings across the markets where Gensler operates

Manage Risk & Governance

• Monitor changes in tax legislation and evaluate their impact on Gensler’s operations

• Lead tax audits, inquiries, and controversies, partnering with external advisors as needed

• Establish strong internal controls and scalable processes to manage risk

Team Leadership & Collaboration

• Lead, develop, and mentor a distributed team of tax professionals across multiple regions

• Foster collaboration with internal stakeholders, including Finance, Legal, HR, Payroll, and regional leadership teams

• Manage relationships with external tax advisors and government authorities

• Serve as a thought partner to senior leaders and build trusted relationships throughout the firm

Your Qualifications 

• CPA, JD, or equivalent professional certification required, master’s in taxation or related field preferred

• 12+ years of progressive tax experience, including at least 5 years in a senior leadership role within a multinational service organization

• Deep expertise in international tax, U.S. tax law, transfer pricing, and indirect taxes

• Forward‑thinking mindset with interest in how AI and technology can shape the future of tax strategy, compliance, and risk management

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and meet tight deadlines in a fast‑paced environment

• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate across disciplines and geographies and develop talent

• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to explain complex tax concepts and influence non‑tax professionals

• Experience navigating tax issues in complex, multi‑entity, international service‑industry environments

• Experience in architecture, engineering, or consulting environments is a plus

• Working knowledge of employment and payroll tax regulations

Life at Gensler 

At Gensler, we are as committed to enjoying life as we are to delivering best-in-class design. From curated art exhibits to internal design competitions to “Well-being Week,” our offices reflect our people’s diverse interests. 

We encourage every person at Gensler to lead a healthy and balanced life. Our comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, vision, disability, wellness programs, flex spending, paid holidays, and paid time off. We also offer a 401k, profit sharing, employee stock ownership, and twice annual bonus opportunities. Our annual base salary range has been established based on local markets. 

As part of the firm’s commitment to licensure and professional development, Gensler offers reimbursement for certain professional licenses and associated renewals and exam fees. In addition, we reimburse tuition for certain eligible programs or classes. We view our professional development programs as strategic investments in our future. 

**The compensation range is estimated to be between $240-$260k plus bonuses and benefits and contingent on relevant experience**