Head of Returns & Automation - Sales and Use Tax

Commenda empowers cross-border companies to streamline and automate their global tax workflows. From incorporation to indirect and direct tax automation, transfer pricing, inter-company agreements, and business licensing, we simplify every aspect of international operations. We’re backed by leading investors including Pelion, 1517 Fund, Urban Innovation Fund, and Boost VC among others.

We are seeking a Head of Returns & Automation to own and drive the development of our Sales and Use Tax (SUT) returns product from end to end. This is a senior-level position where you will build, mentor, and manage the tax compliance and business licensing teams while collaborating closely with our world-class engineering team to automate the returns process. With deep domain knowledge of U.S. sales and use tax, you will oversee the entire returns workflow, from registrations and filings to managing state portals and audit processes.

This role requires a strong blend of strategic leadership and technical expertise to identify and implement automation opportunities. While engineering experience is not required, you will partner with engineering leads to leverage a modern tech stack and ensure scalable, efficient solutions.

• Own the full end-to-end development and management of the Sales and Use Tax returns product, ensuring accurate and timely filings across multiple jurisdictions.
• Build and lead the tax compliance and business licensing teams, mentoring and training junior analysts on best practices for tax return preparation, compliance processes, and resolving jurisdictional notices.
• Drive automation in the tax returns process, collaborating with the engineering team to implement cutting-edge technology solutions, including process automation, data aggregation, and workflow optimization.
• Develop and maintain a deep understanding of U.S. Sales and Use Tax regulations, state portal management, and tax audit processes.
• Identify and prioritize process improvement opportunities to enhance accuracy, efficiency, and scalability in compliance workflows.
• Ensure compliance with filing deadlines, and lead the implementation of best practices to mitigate penalties, interest, or late fees.
• Manage escalations, troubleshoot filing and data issues, and ensure a positive experience for clients through prompt issue resolution.
• Monitor regulatory changes and ensure the tax compliance and business licensing teams are consistently updated on relevant legislation.
• Lead cross-functional projects to ensure automation and compliance tools are aligned with evolving regulations and business needs.
• Deliver executive-level reporting on product performance, automation initiatives, and team productivity.