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:
o Lead the design, planning, and execution of the F&A Shared Services Center (SSC) from the ground up.
o Work closely with senior management to define the scope of services and develop an implementation roadmap for the setup.
o Oversee the recruitment and training of the F&A shared services team.
o Identify and select appropriate technology platforms, tools, and systems to support finance processes (e.g., ERP systems, automation tools).
o Develop and document processes and workflows for all F&A functions, ensuring scalability and standardization.
2. Process Standardization & Optimization:
o Standardize and optimize finance and accounting processes across multiple business units to achieve operational efficiencies.
o Ensure the implementation of best practices in financial transaction processing, reporting, and control mechanisms.
o Collaborate with cross-functional teams (e.g., IT, HR, Operations) to ensure the smooth integration of processes.
o Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity, reduce cycle times, and improve accuracy.
3. Operational Management:
o Manage day-to-day operations of the Shared Services Centre, ensuring the accurate and timely processing of financial transactions.
o Oversee key finance processes such as accounts payable (AP), accounts receivable (AR), payroll processing, general ledger, reconciliations, tax reporting, and fixed asset management.
o Monitor and ensure adherence to service level agreements (SLAs) and key performance indicators (KPIs) for all financial services provided.
o Act as the primary point of contact for resolving escalations and process-related issues within the shared services team.
4. Team Leadership & Development:
o Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing F&A shared services team.
o Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous learning within the shared services environment.
o Develop talent management programs, including training and development plans, performance appraisals, and succession planning.
o Provide leadership and guidance on complex finance issues, ensuring the team is aligned with business goals and objectives.
5. Financial Reporting & Compliance:
o Ensure the accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of financial statements, reports, and other deliverables.
o Oversee the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports,
ensuring compliance with accounting standards (e.g., GAAP, IFRS).
o Ensure compliance with internal controls, policies, and procedures, as well as all applicable regulatory requirements.
o Support internal and external audits by providing required documentation and resolving audit queries.
6. Technology & Automation:
o Lead the automation of repetitive finance tasks using robotic process automation (RPA) or other digital tools to reduce manual workload and improve efficiency.
o Evaluate and implement finance tools (ERP systems, financial reporting software) to improve the accuracy and efficiency of financial operations.
o Ensure seamless integration of the shared services centre with other finance and business systems.
7. Stakeholder Management & Collaboration:
o Act as the liaison between the shared services team and senior management, business units, and external partners.
o Collaborate with key stakeholders to identify their needs and ensure shared services deliverables meet business expectations.
o Manage relationships with third-party vendors and service providers for outsourced finance processes.
8. Risk Management & Controls:
o Identify and mitigate financial risks within the shared services function.
o Establish and maintain a strong internal control framework to ensure the integrity of financial data.
o Ensure compliance with all financial regulations and standards, minimizing operational risks.
9. Project Management:
o Lead key finance transformation projects, from planning and design to execution and evaluation.
o Manage timelines, budgets, and resources for shared services setup and expansion initiatives.
o Drive post-implementation reviews to assess performance, identify gaps, and make necessary adjustments.
Qualifications:
- Education:
Bachelordegree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field. A Masterdegree in Finance, Business Administration, or a related discipline is preferred.
Professional certifications such as CA, CPA, CMA, or ACCA are highly desirable.
- Experience:
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.
Prior experience in a leadership role within a shared services environment is essential.
- Technical Skills:
o Strong understanding of financial processes such as AP, AR, payroll, general ledger, and tax reporting.
o Experience with ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, or Microsoft Dynamics. Hands-on experience with automation tools such as RPA (UiPath, Blue Prism, etc.) is preferred.