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 coverage
• Company-paid life, AD&D, and disability insurance
• 401(k) with company match (Roth and Traditional)
• Generous paid time off, including summer hours and additional time post-tax season
• Paid parental leave and personal leave options
• Professional development leave and certification support
• Wellness and fitness reimbursements
• Company swag allowance and exclusive employee discounts
• Employee recognition programs and team incentive plans