Describe production and records
Explain what you manufacture, where production occurs, how inventory is tracked, and whether the company uses outside facilities. Include related distributors or service businesses. Ask what operational information the proposed team needs beyond the general ledger.
An adviser should be able to explain how it works with your controller and cost-accounting team. The hiring process should test whether the firm can use your existing information rather than relying on broad manufacturing claims.
Scope capital-project support
Provide your major equipment, facility, and expansion plans with expected decision dates. Ask what review is included before commitments are made and what requires a separate project.
The adviser may need to coordinate with engineers, specialty providers, or legal counsel. Ask who selects those providers, what records they need, and how their conclusions are reviewed within the engagement.
- Identify the person maintaining asset records.
- Ask how new facilities change jurisdiction coverage.
- Confirm how outside studies are scoped and reviewed.
Clarify geographic coverage
If the company imports, exports, or operates abroad, describe the facts and ask for a coverage plan. Domestic income tax work and international specialty assignments should be distinguished in the proposal.
Ask which questions the main team can handle and where it uses another specialist. A clear referral model is preferable to an engagement that quietly leaves important international work unassigned.
Evaluate reporting coordination
Lenders, investors, and management may need financial reporting that sits outside a tax advisory engagement. Ask the firm to separate the scopes and show how teams coordinate information.
Choose the provider that can work with your records and capital calendar while explaining its limits. A practical relationship gives your controller clear requests and your leadership team understandable decisions.
- Next step: send a production footprint and capital-project calendar with your request for proposals.