The Direct Tax Manager will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of direct tax compliance, planning, and advisory for the company. This role requires a deep understanding of Indian direct tax laws (Income Tax Act, 1961), transfer pricing regulations, and international taxation principles. The ideal candidate will be a proactive, analytical, and detail-oriented professional with excellent communication and leadership skills, capable of managing a team and interacting effectively with various internal and external stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:

Tax Compliance & Reporting:

- Ensure timely and accurate computation and payment of corporate advance tax and final tax liabilities.

- Oversee the preparation and filing of corporate income tax returns (ITR) and other direct tax-related forms (e.g., Form 3CD, Form 15CA/CB).

- Manage the tax audit process, including preparation of relevant documentation and coordination with tax auditors.

- Ensure compliance with Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) provisions, including timely deposit of TDS, filing of TDS returns (Form 24Q, 26Q, 27Q), and issuance of TDS certificates.

- Reconcile tax accounts and ensure accurate reflection of tax positions in financial statements as per Indian Accounting Standards (Ind AS) / IFRS.

- Stay updated with changes in direct tax laws, rules, and regulations and assess their impact on the company.

Tax Planning & Advisory:

- Develop and implement effective direct tax strategies to optimize the company's tax position while ensuring full compliance with tax laws.

- Provide proactive tax advice and guidance to various business units on direct tax implications of business transactions, new initiatives, and corporate restructuring.

- Conduct research on complex direct tax issues and provide well-reasoned opinions and recommendations.

- Identify tax risks and opportunities and propose solutions to mitigate risks and capitalize on opportunities.

- Assist in due diligence for mergers, acquisitions, and other corporate transactions from a direct tax perspective.

Assessment & Litigation Management:

- Manage and respond to direct tax notices, inquiries, and assessments from tax authorities.

- Represent the company before tax authorities during assessment proceedings, appeals, and other tax litigations.

- Prepare and file appeals with tax appellate authorities (CIT(A), ITAT) and coordinate with external legal counsel for higher appeals.

- Maintain comprehensive documentation and records related to tax assessments and litigations.

Transfer Pricing:

- Ensure compliance with Indian transfer pricing regulations.

- Oversee the preparation and maintenance of transfer pricing documentation (e.g., Master File, Local File, Country-by-Country Report).

- Analyze inter-company transactions and advise on appropriate transfer pricing policies.

- Manage transfer pricing audits and assessments.

Team Management & Development:

- Lead, mentor, and develop a team of direct tax professionals.

- Delegate tasks effectively and ensure timely completion of responsibilities.

- Conduct performance reviews and provide constructive feedback.

- Foster a culture of continuous learning and professional growth within the team.

Stakeholder Management:

- Collaborate effectively with internal stakeholders, including finance, legal, business operations, and HR teams.

- Liaise with external consultants, tax advisors, auditors, and legal counsel.

Qualifications:

- Education: Chartered Accountant (CA) is mandatory. A Law degree (LLB) or Company Secretary (CS) qualification will be an added advantage.

- Experience: Minimum of 8-10 years of post-qualification experience in direct taxation, with at least 3-5 years in a managerial role, preferably in a large corporate environment or a Big 4 accounting firm.

Technical Skills:

- In-depth knowledge of Indian Income Tax Act, 1961, and associated rules and regulations.

- Strong understanding of transfer pricing regulations and international tax principles.

- Proficiency in using tax software and ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle).

- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.

- Ability to interpret complex tax laws and apply them to business situations.

Soft Skills:

- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

- Strong interpersonal and negotiation skills.

- Proven leadership and team management abilities.

- High level of attention to detail and accuracy.

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