Head - Indirect & Direct Taxation

Department: Finance

Location: Chennai, Alwarpet

Reports To: Head Finance

Experience Required: 810 years

Qualification: Chartered Accountant (CA)

Position Overview

The Head Indirect & Direct Taxation will lead the organizations Goods and Services Tax (GST) and other indirect tax functions across India. The role involves ensuring full compliance, strategic tax planning, risk management, and representation before tax authorities. The incumbent will oversee a large-scale operation with multi-state GST registrations, multiple business verticals, and high-value transactions.

Key Responsibilities

1. GST Compliance & Operations

• Oversee end-to-end GST compliance across all states and business units.
• Ensure timely filing of all returns (GSTR-1, 3B, 9, 9C, etc.) and reconciliations (GSTR-2A/2B, books vs returns).
• Monitor accurate and timely availment/utilization of ITC and manage vendor compliance.
• Manage GST registration, amendment, and cancellation processes for all locations.
• Implement and monitor automated GST compliance tools and ERP integration.

2. Strategic Tax Planning

• Develop and execute strategies to optimize tax positions within legal frameworks.
• Evaluate impact of GST law changes on business operations and recommend solutions.
• Provide indirect tax inputs for business expansion, mergers, acquisitions, and new product lines.
• Lead tax structuring for inter-state transactions, branch transfers, and supply chains.

3. Audit, Litigation & Representation

• Handle departmental audits, investigations, and assessments.
• Draft and review replies to show-cause notices, appeals, and other legal submissions.
• Liaise with external consultants, legal counsels, and senior GST officers.
• Represent the company before authorities and tribunals when required.

4. Systems & Process Improvement

• Design and enforce strong internal controls for GST compliance.
• Lead automation initiatives to reduce manual errors and improve efficiency.
• Conduct periodic reviews, reconciliations, and health checks of GST processes.
• Collaborate with IT and finance teams for seamless data flow in ERP.

5. Leadership & Stakeholder Management

• Lead a team of tax professionals across zones and state offices.
• Train and update business, finance, and procurement teams on GST implications.
• Partner with business heads to ensure tax-efficient decision-making.
• Report regularly to management on tax exposure, savings, and compliance status.

Key Skills & Competencies

• In-depth knowledge of GST law, notifications, circulars, and judicial precedents.
• Experience in handling multi-state operations and large-scale compliances.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and leadership skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Proficiency in SAP and GST compliance tools.

Preferred Background

• Experience in manufacturing, trading, or multi-state service sectors.
• Proven track record of handling 1000 to 1500 crore+ turnover organizations.
• Exposure to international indirect tax frameworks (desirable).