Manager - Direct Taxation - FMCG - CA

Role Overview: We are seeking a seasoned Manager of Direct Taxation to join our finance leadership team in Ahmedabad. In this capacity, you will serve as the primary subject matter expert for all direct tax matters, ensuring the organization remains compliant while optimizing our tax strategy in a fast-paced FMCG environment. You will work closely with the CFO, regional finance heads, and external consultants to navigate complex tax regulations, manage litigation, and oversee the timely filing of corporate tax returns. Your work will directly influence the company's bottom line by mitigating tax risks and identifying opportunities for tax efficiency, playing a critical role in our long-term financial health and operational stability. Key Responsibilities: - Lead the end-to-end corporate tax compliance process, including the preparation and filing of income tax returns, to ensure zero-penalty adherence to statutory deadlines. - Manage tax assessments and litigation proceedings by representing the company before tax authorities to protect the organization's financial interests and resolve disputes effectively. - Drive tax planning initiatives by analyzing business operations and supply chain structures to optimize the effective tax rate in alignment with current legislative frameworks. - Oversee the computation of deferred tax and current tax provisions during month-end and year-end closing processes to ensure accurate financial reporting for stakeholders. - Provide strategic advisory support to cross-functional teams on the tax implications of new business projects, mergers, or capital investments to facilitate informed decision-making. Required Skillset: - Demonstrate deep technical proficiency in the Income Tax Act, including transfer pricing regulations and international taxation, to handle complex tax scenarios with precision. - Exhibit strong analytical capabilities to interpret evolving tax laws and translate them into actionable business strategies that minimize fiscal exposure. - Possess exceptional communication and negotiation skills, enabling you to articulate complex tax positions clearly to senior leadership and maintain professional relationships with tax authorities. - Maintain a proactive approach to problem-solving, with the ability to manage multiple high-priority deadlines in a demanding FMCG environment. - Hold a Chartered Accountant (CA) qualification with 5 to 10 years of post-qualification experience in direct taxation, preferably within the manufacturing or FMCG sector. - Show a high level of comfort working in an on-site professional environment in Ahmedabad, collaborating effectively with diverse internal teams to drive organizational objectives.