Head - Finance Vertical - Automotive/Auto Ancillary - CA

Indicative job description (JD) for the Vertical Finance Head position

Job Title: Vertical Finance Head

Location: Gurgaon

Department: Finance & Accounting

Reports to: Group CFO / Dotted Line to Business Vertical Head

Job Summary:

- The Vertical Finance Head will oversee the financial health and management of one of company's core business verticals.

- This individual will be responsible for the full spectrum of finance and accounting activities, from routine processes to high-level strategic advisory.

- The ideal candidate will be a Chartered Accountant (CA) with a minimum of 12-15 years of experience, capable of implementing financial control, promoting efficiency, and setting gold standards in finance and accounting (F&A) practices.

- This role demands a proactive leader with the skills to drive process improvements, ensure compliance, and align financial activities with broader business goals.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A):

- Prepare, analyze, and present monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports, providing insights and recommendations to the vertical leadership team.

- Lead budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning processes, ensuring alignment with business objectives.

- Conduct variance analysis on actual performance vs. budget and work with department heads to rectify discrepancies.

2. Financial Control and Compliance:

- Establish and maintain robust financial control frameworks to ensure all financial activities comply with internal and regulatory standards.

- Conduct regular audits and risk assessments to mitigate financial risks and safeguard assets.

- Implement best practices in financial control, including fraud prevention measures, process documentation, and adherence to industry compliance requirements.

3. Process Improvement & Standardization:

- Lead the drive for continuous improvement by identifying inefficiencies in financial processes and recommending automation and optimization initiatives.

- Standardize financial processes across the vertical in collaboration with the central finance team to ensure consistency and reliability.

- Introduce gold-standard practices in F&A and establish KPIs to measure process effectiveness and efficiency.

4. Cost Management & Financial Prudence:

- Monitor and control costs by analyzing spend, identifying areas for cost savings, and enforcing budget discipline.

- Evaluate and recommend resource allocation strategies that maximize financial health and ensure operational efficiency.

- Exercise financial prudence by managing cash flows, working capital, and funding requirements for the vertical.

5. Team Leadership & Development:

- Manage and mentor a team of finance professionals, fostering a culture of accountability, performance, and continuous learning.

- Conduct regular performance reviews, providing feedback and supporting professional development for team members.

- Ensure the team is up-to-date with best practices in financial controls, compliance, and process innovations.

6. Strategic Advisory:

- Act as a financial advisor to the vertical's leadership team, offering insights on financial strategies that drive growth and profitability.

- Support strategic initiatives and investment decisions with in-depth financial analysis and scenario planning.

- Collaborate closely with other departments to align financial objectives with operational strategies and business goals.

7. Financial Reporting and ERP Integration:

- Ensure timely and accurate reporting by managing month-end and year-end close processes within the vertical.

- Leverage ERP systems (e.g., SAP) to improve data accuracy and reporting capabilities, minimizing manual interventions.

- Drive digital transformation in finance through ERP integration, process automation, and data-driven decision-making.

Qualifications:

- Chartered Accountant (CA) with 12-15 years of post-qualification experience, preferably in manufacturing or multi-vertical organizations.

- Strong understanding of financial control, risk management, and compliance frameworks.

- Expertise in financial planning and analysis (FP&A), budgeting, and forecasting.

Skills & Competencies:

- Financial Acumen: Deep knowledge of financial principles, analytical skills, and the ability to provide strategic insights.

- Process Improvement: Proven track record of identifying inefficiencies, driving automation, and implementing industry best practices.

- Leadership: Strong leadership and team management abilities, with a focus on developing talent and fostering a collaborative environment.

- Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex financial concepts to non-financial stakeholders.

- ERP & Technology Proficiency: Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., SAP) and advanced knowledge of Microsoft Excel and other financial tools.

- Problem-Solving: A strategic mindset, proactive approach, and a results-driven attitude with attention to detail and accuracy