Finance Specialist - Compliance

To support the Assistant Finance Manager (Compliance) and local business units to ensure robust control and full compliance of financial operations for India and support relevant countries (as required) in addition to conducting accounting and finance activities in line with established company policy and local regulatory requirements. To provide analysis and recommendations where required.

Compliance - Taxation, Regulatory Reporting

• Assist in timely and accurate filing of tax returns, responses to notices, audits, license applications/renewals, and other financial matters with local authorities.
• Ensure full compliance with local laws and regulations, maintaining required accounting records.
• Prepare GST/VAT, withholding tax, and other tax declarations and payments in accordance with local legislation.
• Support in understanding and contributing to the Companys positions on Income Tax/GST issues.
• Prepare quarterly and yearly Income Tax returns, staying informed about Direct Tax rules affecting the Company and employees.
• Handle initial responses to Income Tax/GST/Other Tax notices, providing interpretations and references to relevant laws.
• Collaborate with Finance teams like Revenue and Vendors to ensure GST/Income Tax compliance.
• Reconcile reported amounts (e.g., GST credits, TDS liability) with filed returns, documenting reasons for discrepancies.
• Monitor GST and Income Tax portals for notices, notifications, etc., taking timely actions.
• Stay updated on new local requirements impacting risk exposure and operational procedures, informing Finance team members regularly.
• Assist in Compliance-related Purchase Order creation.
• Coordinate with Head Office (HO) teams and service providers for customized reports and timely invoicing and tax compliance.
• Assist with ROC/RBI requirements and filings, coordinating with consultants as needed.
• Ensure timely paperwork and coordination with CA firms for HO remittances and certificates.
• Support Finance teams in obtaining Lower Deduction Certificates (LDC) of taxes on time.

Control and Risk Assessment

• Ensure adherence to company accounting policies and control frameworks.
• Assist in authorizing tax consultancy contracts and expenditures.
• Support completion of Control Self-Assessment for risk management.
• Review finance processes to identify policy breaches or risks, collaborating with management on control implementations.

Management and Financial Reporting

• Record entries accurately in SAP and review expenses and balance sheet items.
• Assist in budget preparation and ad hoc financial analysis.
• Coordinate with HO teams on tax accounting matters.

Business Support and Process Improvement

• Identify opportunities for process improvements and efficiency enhancements.
• Provide finance-related support to local departments.
• Deliver presentations on relevant Tax topics to non-finance teams.

EA

• Fulfill Emergency and Accident and Crisis Response duties as required.

Academic Qualifications

• Graduation in Commerce /Accounting/Business Management is a must from a reputed University or college in / outside India.
• Degree in Accounting or related discipline with sound accounting knowledge would be an advantage.
• Professional qualification in Accounting (e.g. Chartered Accountant / ACCA / CMA etc.) or related discipline is preferred.
• Exceptional candidates with relevant experience who are semi-qualified in any of the above will also be considered.

Knowledge, Skills, Training and Experience

• A minimum of 4+ years experience in Finance/Accounting is essential.
• Experience in the airline industry will be an advantage.
• Experience in SAP is an advantage.
• Sound understanding of the local country s business practices.
• A good team player with strong interpersonal skills and can interact with all levels within the organisation and region.
• Demonstrable experience in improving current work practices and implementing new ideas.
• Strong planning, problem-solving and organisational skills and ability to prioritise and manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Lateral thinking and ability to take initiative and a self-starter.
• Strong understanding of Cathay Pacific policies and procedures.
• Superior written, oral communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• Demonstrates cultural sensitivity and diplomacy.
• Adapts and embraces constant change.