Thomas Zandstra
Comstock Park
Summary
Dynamic Tax Senior with a proven track record at E&Y North America LLP, adept at managing complex multistate tax issues and audits. Recognized for critical thinking and attention to detail, successfully implemented software solutions that streamlined tax return preparation, enhancing team efficiency and compliance. Committed to fostering collaboration and continuous improvement.
Dynamic individual with hands-on experience in Multistate Tax and Unclaimed Property and talent for navigating challenges. Brings strong problem-solving skills and proactive approach to new tasks. Known for adaptability, creativity, and results-oriented mindset. Committed to making meaningful contributions and advancing organizational goals.
Overview
1
1
Certification
54
54
years of professional experience
Work History
Tax Senior
E&Y North America LLP
Grand Rapids, MI
07.2020 - Current
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
- Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement.
- Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness, and willingness to help wherever needed.
- Assisted with day-to-day operations, working efficiently and productively with all team members.
- Reviewed state and local tax returns for all states
- Prepared a weekly email that summarized changes or proposed changes to state tax laws
Manager - Multistate Tax
Amway Corporation
Ada, MI
01.1980 - 01.2011
- Managed the preparation of State and Local Income, Franchise, and Intangibles taxes in all states and several localities.
- Managed the preparation of all required business licenses.
- Managed the preparation of Unclaimed Property returns in all states.
- Managed state and local tax audits including two MTC audits.
- Advised on payroll taxes due when complicated withholding issues arose.
- Managed the preparation of their state tax accrual
- Prepared a proposal to change their corporate structure to eliminate a significant amount of unclaimed property remittances, which was implemented..
- Managed the preparation of property tax returns
- Prepared a tax analysis to demonstrate a state tax savings of an international restructuring proposal.
- Assisted the Michigan Chamber of Commerce in making changes to the legislation that implemented the Michigan Business Tax
- Prepared a proposal to the Michigan Chamber of Commerce to change the unclaimed property reporting requirement of gift certificates, which became on of their key objectives.
- Implemented new software solutions to automate tax return preparation
Tax Accountant
American Seating Company
Grand Rapids, MI
07.1974 - 01.1980
- Prepared and filed state, and local tax returns ensuring compliance with regulations.
- Analyzed financial records to identify discrepancies and recommend corrective actions.
- Led audits by preparing documentation and responses to IDR's
Staff Accountant
Ernst & Ernst
Grand Rapids, MI
06.1972 - 07.1974
- Performed usual audit functions of a staff accountant
- Prepared some state and local tax returns
Education
Bachelor of Science - Accounting
Ferris State College
Big Rapids, MISkills
- Friendly, positive attitude
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Problem-solving
- Attention to detail
- Computer skills
- Critical thinking
- Calm under pressure
- Active listening
Affiliations
- American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
- Michigan Association of Certified Public Accountants
Certification
AICPA
MACPA
Timeline
Tax Senior
E&Y North America LLP
07.2020 - Current
Manager - Multistate Tax
Amway Corporation
01.1980 - 01.2011
Tax Accountant
American Seating Company
07.1974 - 01.1980
Staff Accountant
Ernst & Ernst
06.1972 - 07.1974
Bachelor of Science - Accounting
Ferris State College