Just In Time - Head - Finance

Description:

Role Overview: The Head Finance/Accounts will be a key member of the executive leadership team, responsible for driving the financial strategy, planning, and operations of the company. The role requires a seasoned finance professional with strong expertise in retail business modelsboth brick-and-mortar and e-commerceand the ability to balance profitability, cash flow, and sustainable growth.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Financial Management:

- Develop and implement financial strategies aligned with business goals and growth plans.

- Lead long-term financial planning, risk management, and scenario analysis for retail and e-commerce divisions.

- Provide financial insights and recommendations to support strategic decision-making.

Financial Operations & Controls:

- Oversee all accounting, budgeting, and reporting functions across retail and online business units.

- Ensure accuracy, transparency, and compliance in financial statements and audits.

- Strengthen internal controls, financial discipline, and cost optimization initiatives.

- Manage working capital efficiently, ensuring optimal inventory, credit, and cash flow management.

Business Performance & Profitability:

- Monitor key retail metrics such as sales per square foot, gross margins, inventory turnover, and ROI on marketing spends.

- Drive profitability improvement through cost control, pricing strategy, and margin management.

- Partner with merchandising, operations, and marketing teams to improve overall business efficiency.

Funding & Investor Relations:

- Manage banking relationships, funding requirements, and capital structure optimization.

- Lead equity/debt fundraising efforts and manage relationships with investors and financial institutions.

- Present periodic business and financial performance reports to the Board of Directors and stakeholders.

Compliance & Governance:

- Ensure compliance with all statutory, tax, and regulatory requirements (GST, TDS, PF, ESIC, etc.).

- Oversee financial due diligence and audits.

- Drive corporate governance, risk assessment, and ethical financial practices.

Leadership & Team Development:

- Lead, mentor, and build a high-performing finance and accounts team.

- Foster collaboration across departments to ensure financial alignment with organizational goals.

Key Skills & Competencies:

- Strong understanding of retail financial metrics, P&L management, and multi-channel operations (offline + e-commerce).

- Strategic thinker with hands-on expertise in financial planning, analysis, and reporting.

- Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.

- Proficiency in ERP systems, advanced Excel, and financial modelling.

- Analytical mind-set with strong business acumen and attention to detail.

Qualifications & Experience:

- Chartered Accountant (CA) / MBA in Finance.

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

- Prior experience in retail, FMCG, or consumer-driven sectors is mandatory.

- Experience in scaling businesses and managing multi-location operations preferred.

Performance Indicators (KPIs):

- EBITDA and Profit Margin Growth.

- Cash Flow and Working Capital Management.

- Accuracy and Timeliness of Financial Reporting.

- Cost Optimization and Operational Efficiency.

- Compliance Adherence and Audit Scores.

- Fundraising Effectiveness and Investor Satisfaction.