Head - Group Taxation

ROLE PURPOSE & OVERVIEW

As Head of Group Taxation, you will own all direct and indirect tax matters for the group. You'll provide strategic tax guidance to leadership, ensure 100% compliance across all entities, manage tax assessments and disputes, and identify tax optimization opportunities. This role requires deep technical knowledge of both GST and Direct Tax in the trading business context, coupled with strong stakeholder management and regulatory negotiation skills.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Direct Tax Compliance & Strategy

• Own all Direct Tax compliance: quarterly TDS returns, annual ITR preparation, transfer pricing documentation (if applicable)
• Proactively manage tax assessments: respond to notices, coordinate with tax authorities, and prepare defense documentation
• Advise leadership on tax-efficient business structuring, investment decisions, and contingent liability assessment

2. Indirect Tax (GST) & Customs Compliance

• Manage GST compliance across 3 entities: GSTR filings (GSTR-1, GSTR-3B, GSTR-9), credit reconciliation, and audit support
• Ensure correct GST classification, ITC eligibility, and input-output matching in trading transactions
• Handle customs compliance for traded goods (duty classification, duty drawback, special schemes if applicable)

3. Tax Litigation & Assessment Management

• Lead tax dispute resolution: represent in assessments, appeals, and tribunal proceedings (in partnership with external counsel)
• Maintain documentation and communication trails to support litigation strategy
• Monitor and mitigate litigation risk through proactive compliance and advance tax planning

4. Tax Planning & Risk Mitigation

• Identify tax optimization opportunities: cost-benefit analysis of available schemes, relief mechanisms, and structuring options
• Assess contingent tax liabilities and provide reserve recommendations to Finance
• Stay abreast of evolving tax law changes and proactively flag impact to the business

5. Multi-Entity Tax Coordination

• Coordinate tax filings and compliance calendars across 3 legal entities (consolidated planning)
• Monitor intercompany transactions for tax efficiency and regulatory compliance (transfer pricing, related-party transactions)
• Ensure consistency of tax positions across group entities

6. Stakeholder & Regulatory Management

• Build strong relationships with tax authorities; represent company professionally in communications, audits, and proceedings
• Provide regular tax compliance calendars and advisory updates to management
• Coordinate with external tax advisors, audit firms, and legal counsel as required

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS

• CA (Chartered Accountant) with minimum 8+ years of hands-on experience in tax practice or corporate tax
• Demonstrated expertise in both Direct Tax (Income Tax, TDS, Transfer Pricing) and Indirect Tax (GST, Customs)
• Proven experience managing tax assessments, notices, and litigation (at least 2-3 years handling disputes)
• Strong understanding of trading business tax dynamics (inventory valuation, duty implications, goods movement)
• Proficiency in tax software (e-filing platforms), Excel, and coordination with accounting systems (Tally, ERP)
• Excellent written and verbal communication; ability to articulate complex tax concepts to business stakeholders
• Knowledge of Indian tax law and regulatory framework; up-to-date with circulars, notifications, and case law

NICE-TO-HAVE QUALIFICATIONS

• Prior experience in a fast-growing or scaling company
• Experience with multi-entity tax structures and consolidated tax planning
• Exposure to customs compliance and international trade regulations
• Litigation experience (appearing before CIT-A or tribunal)
• Knowledge of special tax schemes (SEZ, EPCG, or similar)

KEY COMPETENCIES

• Technical Excellence: Deep mastery of Direct and Indirect Tax law; ability to apply nuanced interpretations
• Proactive Risk Management: Anticipates tax risks; proposes preventive compliance measures
• Negotiation & Influence: Confident representation before tax authorities; persuasive communication of tax positions
• Attention to Detail: Ensures accuracy in all tax filings and compliance documentation
• Strategic Thinking: Balances compliance with tax optimization; advises on business implications of tax decisions
• Stakeholder Management: Builds trust with leadership, auditors, and tax authorities through professionalism and competence