Head - Shared Services - F&A Domain

Job Title : Head - Shared Services

Department : Finance & Accounting (F&A)

Reports To : Head of Finance

Location : Bengaluru

Job Summary:

- The Head- Shared Services will be responsible for setting up, managing, and continuously improving the Finance & Accounting Shared Services function. This role will ensure the smooth establishment and operation of processes related to accounts payable, accounts receivable, general ledger, payroll, and other finance-related functions.

- The role requires deep expertise in setting up shared services from scratch, process standardization, and driving operational efficiencies.

- The ideal candidate should have a proven background in managing end-to-end F&A functions, with strong leadership and project management skills.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Shared Services Setup & Implementation:

- Lead the design, planning, and execution of the F&A Shared Services Center (SSC) from the ground up.

- Work closely with senior management to define the scope of services and develop an implementation roadmap for the setup.

- Oversee the recruitment and training of the F&A shared services team.

- Identify and select appropriate technology platforms, tools, and systems to support finance processes (e.g., ERP systems, automation tools).

- Develop and document processes and workflows for all F&A functions, ensuring scalability and standardization.

2. Process Standardization & Optimization:

- Standardize and optimize finance and accounting processes across multiple business units to achieve operational efficiencies.

- Ensure the implementation of best practices in financial transaction processing, reporting, and control mechanisms.

- Collaborate with cross-functional teams (e.g., IT, HR, Operations) to ensure the smooth integration of processes.

- Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity, reduce cycle times, and improve accuracy.

3. Operational Management:

- Manage day-to-day operations of the Shared Services Centre, ensuring the accurate and timely processing of financial transactions.

- Oversee key finance processes such as accounts payable (AP), accounts receivable (AR), payroll processing, general ledger, reconciliations, tax reporting, and fixed asset management.

- Monitor and ensure adherence to service level agreements (SLAs) and key performance indicators (KPIs) for all financial services provided.

- Act as the primary point of contact for resolving escalations and process-related issues within the shared services team.

4. Team Leadership & Development:

- Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing F&A shared services team.

- Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous learning within the shared services environment.

- Develop talent management programs, including training and development plans, performance appraisals, and succession planning.

- Provide leadership and guidance on complex finance issues, ensuring the team is aligned with business goals and objectives.

5. Financial Reporting & Compliance:

- Ensure the accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of financial statements, reports, and other deliverables.

- Oversee the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports, ensuring compliance with accounting standards (e.g., GAAP, IFRS).

- Ensure compliance with internal controls, policies, and procedures, as well as all applicable regulatory requirements.

- Support internal and external audits by providing required documentation and resolving audit queries.

6. Technology & Automation:

- Lead the automation of repetitive finance tasks using robotic process automation (RPA) or other digital tools to reduce manual workload and improve efficiency.

- Evaluate and implement finance tools (ERP systems, financial reporting software) to improve the accuracy and efficiency of financial operations.

- Ensure seamless integration of the shared services center with other finance and business systems.

7. Stakeholder Management & Collaboration:

- Act as the liaison between the shared services team and senior management, business units, and external partners.

- Collaborate with key stakeholders to identify their needs and ensure shared services deliverables meet business expectations.

- Manage relationships with third-party vendors and service providers for outsourced finance processes.

8. Risk Management & Controls:

- Identify and mitigate financial risks within the shared services function.

- Establish and maintain a strong internal control framework to ensure the integrity of financial data.

- Ensure compliance with all financial regulations and standards, minimizing operational risks.

9. Project Management:

- Lead key finance transformation projects, from planning and design to execution and evaluation.

- Manage timelines, budgets, and resources for shared services setup and expansion initiatives.

- Drive post-implementation reviews to assess performance, identify gaps, and make necessary adjustments.

Qualifications:

Education:

1. Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field. A Master's degree in Finance,

2. Business Administration, or a related discipline is preferred.

3. Professional certifications such as CA, CPA, CMA, or ACCA are highly desirable.

- Experience:

1. 8-10 years of experience in Finance & Accounting, with at least 3-5 years of experience in setting up or managing F&A Shared Services.

2. Prior experience in a leadership role within a shared services environment is essential.

- Technical Skills:

1. Strong understanding of financial processes such as AP, AR, payroll, general ledger, and tax reporting.

2. Experience with ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, or Microsoft Dynamics.

3. Hands-on experience with automation tools such as RPA (UiPath, Blue Prism, etc.) is preferred.

4. Knowledge of financial reporting standards (GAAP, IFRS) and compliance frameworks.

Key Competencies:

Leadership & People Management:

- Strong leadership capabilities to build and manage large teams in a shared services environment.

Project Management: Demonstrated experience in managing large-scale projects, from planning to execution.

Financial Acumen:

- Deep knowledge of financial operations, accounting principles, and financial reporting standards.

Process Optimization:

- Expertise in process standardization, optimization, and automation in a shared services setup.

- Analytical Thinking:

- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven approach to decision- making.

- Stakeholder Management:

- Excellent communication and collaboration skills to manage internal and external stakeholders effectively.

- Adaptability:

- Ability to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment, with a focus on continuous improvement and change management.

Benefits:

- Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.

- Health and wellness benefits, including medical insurance.

- Opportunities for career growth within the organization.

- Exposure to leading