Position: Head of Finance & Accounting

Location: Mumbai

Reports To: Executive Director

Team: Finance & Accounts

Role Overview

The Head of Finance & Accounting will lead the finance function for the organization, ensuring robust financial management, compliance, and strategic support to business growth. The role involves overseeing all financial planning, accounting, taxation, audits, MIS reporting, and treasury management for the multi-designer retail business spread across 11 stores in India.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Strategy & Planning

- Develop and implement financial strategies aligned with business objectives.

- Prepare annual budgets, forecasts, and long-term financial plans.

- Conduct variance analysis and recommend corrective actions to management.

- Provide financial insights to support expansion, new store openings, and brand collaborations.

Accounting & Compliance

- Oversee day-to-day accounting operations including AP, AR, payroll, inventory accounting, and reconciliations.

- Ensure compliance with statutory requirements: Companies Act, GST, Income Tax, FEMA, and other regulatory laws.

- Manage timely filing of GST returns, TDS, and other statutory filings.

- Lead external and internal audits, ensuring compliance and accuracy.

Retail & Store Finance Management

- Monitor store-wise P&L, sales performance, shrinkage, and operational costs.

- Develop dashboards and MIS reports for store performance, margins, and profitability.

- Implement internal controls across stores for cash, stock, and credit card settlements.

- Support retail operations with financial analysis for promotions, discounts, and vendor payments.

Cash Flow & Treasury

- Manage working capital requirements, including receivables, payables, and inventory funding.

- Optimize banking relationships, credit facilities, and treasury management.

- Ensure timely vendor payments while maintaining liquidity.

Business Partnering

- Work closely with Operations, Merchandising, and HR to drive profitability.

- Provide financial analysis for new projects, store openings, and brand launches.

- Advise management on cost optimization, risk management, and investment opportunities.

Team Leadership

- Lead, mentor, and develop a team of accountants professionals.

- Establish strong internal controls and financial discipline across the organization.

- Implement best practices in financial processes and reporting systems.

Key Skills & Competencies

- Strong knowledge of Indian accounting standards, taxation, and compliance.

- Proven experience in retail / fashion / luxury sector preferred.

- Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret financial data into business insights.

- Strong leadership and team management skills.

- Proficiency in ERP/accounting systems preferably Microsoft Navision, advanced Excel, and MIS tools.

- High attention to detail, integrity, and ability to work in a fast-paced retail environment.

- Knowledge of automation will be good.

Qualifications & Experience

- BCOM, MCOM, Inter CA or MBA (Finance) qualified.

- 10 to 15 years of experience in finance & accounting, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.

- Experience in multi-store retail industry is strongly preferred.