Hartex Rubber - Head - Finance & Accounting - CA

This position will be responsible for overseeing the entire finance and accounts function of the organization.

This includes financial planning, reporting, compliance, and internal controls to ensure the company's financial health and sustainability.

Job Overview:

The Role will be responsible for overseeing the financial management of the manufacturing organization in India, ensuring accurate financial planning, reporting, and controls while driving profitability and supporting strategic decisions.

This position will involve overseeing accounting practices, cost management, compliance with Indian regulations, and providing business insights.

The candidate should have strong expertise in manufacturing finance, tax regulations in India, and familiarity with GST, TDS, and local statutory reporting.

Key Responsibilities:

Financial Reporting & Analysis:

- Ensure timely and accurate preparation of financial statements in compliance with Indian Accounting Standards (Ind AS).

- Deliver variance analysis on budget vs. actual performance and communicate insights to senior management.

- Prepare and present financial reports for board meetings, providing strategic insights and recommendations.

- Collaborate with external auditors during audits and ensure timely completion of audits.

Budgeting & Forecasting:

- Lead the annual budgeting process, working with department heads to develop forecasts and set financial goals.

- Regularly update rolling forecasts, incorporating changes in the Indian economy, currency fluctuations, and market conditions.

- Identify cost-saving initiatives and operational efficiency improvements to maximize profitability.

Cost Management & Manufacturing Accounting:

- Oversee cost accounting, ensuring accurate allocation of direct and indirect costs, including labour, materials, and overheads.

- Perform cost variance analysis for different production lines and suggest measures for improvement.

- Monitor and manage inventory levels (raw materials, WIP, and finished goods) in line with production needs.

- Ensure accuracy in product costing, monitor profitability, and work closely with operations to manage cost drivers.

Cash Flow & Working Capital Management:

- Monitor cash flow on a daily basis and ensure timely forecasting to meet working capital needs.

- Optimize working capital by managing accounts receivable, accounts payable, and inventory levels.

- Liaise with banks and financial institutions for funding, ensuring compliance with banking covenants.

Taxation & Regulatory Compliance:

- Ensure timely and accurate filing of Goods and Services Tax (GST), Tax Deducted at Source (TDS), and Income Tax Returns.

- Handle compliance with Indian corporate laws, ensuring adherence to the Companies Act, 2013, and liaising with statutory authorities.

- Manage regulatory audits and inspections by government authorities and ensure compliance with local, state, and national tax regulations.

Internal Controls & Audit:

- Develop, implement, and maintain robust internal control systems to safeguard company assets.

- Conduct internal audits to ensure proper control over financial processes and transactions.

- Ensure compliance with the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) for any cross-border transactions, if applicable.

Team Leadership & Development:

- Lead, mentor, and develop the finance and accounting team, ensuring high performance and career growth.

- Foster collaboration across functions such as operations, sales, and supply chain to ensure financial insights are integrated into business decisions.

Systems & Process Improvement:

- Leverage knowledge of ERP systems (such as SAP, Oracle, or Tally) to develop and improve usage of existing homegrown system; leverage the system to optimize financial reporting, cost control, and process automation.

- Identify opportunities to streamline financial processes, reduce manual work, and enhance reporting accuracy.

Strategic Decision Support:

- Provide financial analysis and modelling to support strategic decisions such as capital investments, new product development, and market expansion.

- Assist senior management with financial risk assessment and the development of risk mitigation strategies.

Qualifications & Requirements:

Education:

- Bachelors degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field.

- CA (Chartered Accountant) Qualification is mandatory.

- Additional qualification like CMA (Cost Management Accountant) or CS (Company Secretary) would be an advantage.

Experience:

- 20 years of financial management experience, with at least 5 years in a manufacturing environment in India.

- Strong experience in cost accounting, budgeting, and financial analysis, with knowledge of Indian market conditions.

Skills:

- Expertise in Indian tax laws, GST, TDS, and other statutory requirements.

- Proficiency in ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, Tally) and financial reporting tools.

- Advanced Excel skills and familiarity with financial modelling and data analysis.

- Strong communication and leadership skills, with the ability to influence cross-functional teams.

Competencies:

- Strong understanding of Indian financial regulations and corporate governance.

- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

- Strong analytical skills with attention to detail.

- Ability to collaborate with different functions and drive business growth through financial insights.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

- Accuracy and timeliness of financial reporting and compliance with Indian regulations.

- Achievement of budgeted financial targets and cash flow management.

- Successful implementation of cost-saving initiatives.

- Effective team management and development.

- Improvement of internal controls and compliance with statutory requirements.

Salary & Benefits:

- Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.

- Performance-based incentives.

- Comprehensive benefits package, provident fund (PF), and gratuity.

- Opportunities for professional development, including training and leadership programs.

Additional Notes for this Role:

- Familiarity with local labour laws, including compliance with Provident Fund (PF), Employee State Insurance (ESI), and Gratuity.

- Ability to navigate the challenges of the Indian manufacturing sector, such as logistics, raw material sourcing, and regulatory hurdles.

- Experience working with government agencies for subsidies, incentives, and industrial compliance may be a plus.

- Familiarity with export regulations, including compliance with FTP, Advanced Authorization and EPCG licenses, Drawback, RODTEP will be a bonus.