Who can a public accounting firm provide tax services to without impairing independence in an audit engagement?

Providing tax services to certain individuals within a client organization can indeed jeopardize a public accounting firm's independence when it is also engaged in an audit of that client. The correct choice indicates that a board member with financial oversight roles is permissible, as they usually operate under a level of scrutiny and governance that is distinct from day-to-day management.

This board member's position typically entails a degree of separation from the operational activities of the company, thereby reducing the risk of conflicts that could threaten independence. Tax services rendered to them are less likely to create situations that could be perceived as compromising the auditor's objectivity or integrity in relation to the audit.

In contrast, providing tax services to the client’s president or CFO, who hold executive responsibilities and influence financial reporting, could create a conflict of interest. Similarly, providing services to any staff member could jeopardize independence due to the potential for those individuals to be involved in reporting to the audit committee or managing financial statements. Thus, the independence of the audit could be compromised if the accountants are also involved in providing tax services to roles that are closely tied to financial oversight and decision-making in the organization.