Zonal Head - Supply Chain Finance - Vendor Financing

Job Title: Zonal Head - Supply Chain Finance (Vendor Finance & Vendor Onboarding)

Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Reports to: Head of Supply Chain Finance

Position Overview:

Shapoorji Pallonji Finance is seeking a Zonal Head - Supply Chain Finance to lead our Vendor Finance and Vendor Onboarding operations in the Chennai region. This strategic leadership role will oversee the development, implementation, and management of vendor finance programs aimed at improving working capital solutions for suppliers across our supply chain network. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in supply chain finance, vendor relationship management, and onboarding processes, ensuring seamless integration and operational efficiency for vendors.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership:

- Define and implement the regional strategy for vendor finance programs, aligned with Shapoorji Pallonji Finance's goals and business objectives.

- Lead the vendor finance operations in the Chennai region, driving the growth of vendor onboarding and financing solutions.

- Develop and execute the overall vision for enhancing vendor financing capabilities and working capital optimization within Shapoorji Pallonji Finance.

Vendor Finance Program Development & Management:

- Oversee the implementation of vendor finance solutions, including reverse factoring, supply chain financing, and trade receivables discounting, to improve cash flow for vendors and suppliers.

- Work closely with key business stakeholders to customize vendor finance solutions that address specific supplier needs and financial challenges.

- Monitor and ensure the efficiency of vendor financing programs, ensuring that the financial structure benefits both Shapoorji Pallonji Finance and its suppliers.

Vendor Onboarding & Relationship Management:

- Lead the vendor onboarding process, ensuring seamless integration of new vendors into the financing program, including the evaluation of their financial health, documentation requirements, and risk assessment.

- Build and maintain strong, trust-based relationships with vendors, ensuring that their needs are met and addressing any concerns or issues in a timely manner.

- Collaborate with cross-functional teams (e.g., legal, compliance, operations) to ensure smooth and efficient vendor onboarding.

Business Development & Growth:

- Drive new business acquisition by identifying and pursuing opportunities to expand the vendor finance program across different sectors within the region.

- Partner with the business development team to onboard new clients and expand the footprint of Shapoorji Pallonji Finance's vendor finance solutions.

- Regularly engage with suppliers to promote the benefits of vendor finance and increase adoption rates.

Financial & Risk Management:

- Manage the financial performance of the vendor finance programs, ensuring they meet the expected profitability targets while mitigating risk.

- Oversee the credit risk assessment and vendor due diligence process to ensure that vendors are financially stable and capable of sustaining long-term relationships.

- Establish and enforce risk management processes, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and Shapoorji Pallonji Finance's policies.

Operational Efficiency & Compliance:

- Monitor the operational processes involved in vendor onboarding and financing, ensuring that they are optimized for speed, accuracy, and cost-efficiency.

- Ensure that all vendor finance activities comply with local regulations, company policies, and industry standards.

- Continuously assess and improve internal processes related to vendor finance, identifying opportunities for innovation and process automation.

Team Leadership & Development:

- Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of supply chain finance professionals, ensuring alignment with company goals and objectives.

- Conduct regular performance reviews, training, and development programs to improve team skills and knowledge in vendor finance and supply chain management.

Key Skills and Qualifications:

Educational Qualification:

- Bachelor's degree in Finance, Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related field. An MBA or advanced degree in Finance is highly desirable.

Experience:

- Minimum of 10-12 years of experience in supply chain finance, trade finance, or vendor finance, with at least 5 years in a leadership role managing vendor onboarding, financing programs, or working capital optimization.

- Demonstrated experience in vendor finance, reverse factoring, or related financial products and solutions.

- Experience in a large corporate or financial institution environment, ideally within construction, real estate, or infrastructure sectors (Shapoorji Pallonji's focus areas).

Skills:

- Strong understanding of vendor finance solutions, including the technical, operational, and financial aspects.

- In-depth knowledge of risk management, credit assessment, and compliance in the context of vendor finance.

- Strong business development skills with the ability to identify opportunities, build relationships, and grow business in a competitive environment.

- Proven leadership and team management abilities, with experience in mentoring and developing teams.

- Ability to communicate effectively with senior management, vendors, and internal teams.