Associate Director - Finance - Media/Publishing Firm (10-14 yrs)

Associate Director - Finance

Our Client - One of the top publishing houses, is looking for an experienced finance resource, who will oversee all aspects of financial management, including corporate accounting, regulatory and financial reporting, budget and forecast preparation, tax management, audit processes, and ERP system implementation. This role requires strong leadership, strategic thinking, and the ability to work across departments to ensure financial health and compliance.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Financial Reporting & Compliance:

- Oversee the preparation and publication of accurate and timely financial statements, including monthly, quarterly, and annual reports.

- Ensure compliance with statutory requirements and accounting standards (GAAP, IFRS, etc.).

- Manage all financial operations including accounting, budgeting, forecasting, and analysis.

2. Taxation:

- Develop and oversee tax planning strategies to optimize tax liabilities.

- Ensure compliance with direct and indirect tax regulations (GST, VAT, Income Tax, etc.).

- Coordinate with external tax consultants and authorities for tax filings, returns, assessments, and audits.

- Manage transfer pricing, international tax compliance, and reporting as necessary.

3. Audit Management:

- Lead the external and internal audit processes, ensuring timely completion and compliance with statutory requirements.

- Address audit observations and recommendations by implementing appropriate internal controls.

- Ensure accuracy and integrity of financial reporting systems in line with audit requirements.

- Liaise with auditors and provide necessary documentation and responses.

4. ERP Implementation:

- Lead the financial module of ERP implementation, ensuring seamless integration with existing financial systems.

- Collaborate with IT and other departments to design and implement finance-related functionalities in the ERP system.

- Ensure ERP compliance with accounting standards, tax laws, and regulatory requirements.

- Provide training and support to finance and accounting teams on ERP system usage and best practices.

- Monitor system performance and lead improvements post-implementation.

5. Financial Strategy & Risk Management:

- Develop and implement financial strategies aligned with company goals and growth objectives.

- Oversee risk management policies, including credit, operational, and financial risk mitigation.

- Lead initiatives to improve cash flow management, reduce costs, and improve overall financial performance.

6. Budgeting & Forecasting:

- Lead the annual budgeting process, ensuring alignment with strategic business goals.

- Conduct financial analysis and variance reporting to guide management decisions.

- Continuously review financial data to forecast future financial positions and advise management on risk mitigation.

7. Team Leadership:

- Manage and mentor the finance and accounting teams, ensuring continuous development and alignment with company objectives.

- Set performance goals and review the team's output for accuracy and compliance.

- Foster a culture of accountability, integrity, and high performance within the finance team.

Qualifications:

- CA / MBA Finance or equivalent professional certification.

- Bachelor's or master's degree in finance, Accounting, or related field.

- Minimum 10 -14 years of experience in financial management, accounting, and taxation, preferably in a similar role.

Skills & Competencies:

- Advanced knowledge of accounting principles and financial reporting standards (GAAP, IFRS).

- Excellent analytical, strategic planning, and problem-solving skills.

- Leadership and team management experience.

- Proficiency in financial management software and ERP systems.

- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.