Role Summary:
We are looking for a highly skilled and experienced direct Tax & Compliance Lead to manage the organization s indirect tax compliance under the Income-tax Act, 1961, and to provide specialized support for mergers and acquisitions (M&A) transactions. This role requires a deep understanding of the Indian tax laws, particularly in relation to corporate tax, M&A structures, tax planning, and compliance. The ideal candidate will have expertise in managing complex tax matters, including tax due diligence, structuring M&A deals, and ensuring overall tax compliance for the organization.
Responsibilities & Duties:
Direct Tax Compliance and Advisory:
1. Income-tax Compliance:
o Ensure timely and accurate filing of income tax returns for the company, subsidiaries, and related entities.
o Oversee the preparation and filing of various forms under the Income- tax Act (e.g., Form 3CEB, Form 56, etc.).
o Ensure adherence to tax payments, including quarterly advance tax payments, and compliance with tax audit requirements.
o Monitor and update the organization on changes in tax laws and regulations under the Income-tax Act, 1961.
o Assist with the management of tax assessments, notices, and tax disputes, including handling correspondence with tax authorities.
2. Transfer Pricing Compliance:
o Ensure the proper implementation of transfer pricing provisions, including the preparation and filing of transfer pricing documentation.
o Coordinate with external consultants for transfer pricing studies and documentation, as required.
o Handle any transfer pricing audits or investigations by tax authorities.
3. Tax Planning and Optimization:
o Advise management on tax-efficient structures for operations, financing, and investments.
o Develop strategies for minimizing tax liabilities through deductions, exemptions, and tax incentives available under the Income-tax Act.
o Manage tax compliance for international operations, ensuring adherence to both local and global tax requirements.
4. Tax Audit and Reporting:
o Oversee the preparation of tax audit reports and provide accurate inputs for the financial statements in line with tax audit requirements.
o Ensure timely resolution of any discrepancies or issues raised during the tax audit process.
o Coordinate with external auditors for the tax audit process and handle all relevant documentation.
Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) Support:
1. M&A Transaction Structuring:
o Provide expert advice on the direct tax implications of potential M&A transactions, including structuring deals in a tax-efficient manner.
o Analyze the tax impact of various deal structures (asset deals vs. share deals) and recommend the most optimal approach.
o Assist with the negotiation of tax-related terms and conditions in M&A agreements.
2. Tax Due Diligence:
o Lead and support the tax due diligence process for potential acquisitions or mergers.
o Identify and assess any tax risks, liabilities, and opportunities within the target company s tax profile.
o Coordinate with external legal and tax advisors to conduct thorough due diligence and prepare reports on the findings.
3. Integration and Post-M&A Compliance:
o Oversee post-merger integration activities from a tax perspective, ensuring compliance with all direct tax obligations.
o Advise on the tax treatment of various post-merger transactions, including the transfer of assets and liabilities, employee matters, and intra-group financing.
o Ensure proper filing of returns and compliance post-M&A, including the filing of revised tax returns if necessary.
4. Cross-Border Transactions:
o Advise on the tax implications of cross-border M&A transactions, including managing compliance with international tax treaties, withholding tax obligations, and VAT/GST considerations.
o Collaborate with international tax teams to ensure seamless integration of M&A transactions across jurisdictions.
Tax Litigation and Dispute Resolution:
1. Handling Tax Disputes:
o Represent the company in any tax litigation proceedings, including appeals, rectification applications, and disputes with tax authorities.
o Work with external legal counsel and tax consultants to prepare and submit representations and defend the company s position during assessments or audits.
2. Risk Management:
o Identify potential tax risks in the organization s operations and M&A activities and proactively develop strategies to mitigate these risks.
o Assist in resolving complex tax matters through efficient dispute resolution mechanisms, such as settlement schemes or tax tribunals.
Stakeholder Management and Reporting:
1. Internal Stakeholder Coordination:
o Collaborate closely with senior management, finance, legal, and other departments to ensure alignment on tax matters.
o Educate and train internal teams on direct tax matters, ensuring all departments are aware of their tax obligations.
2. External Advisor Coordination:
o Work closely with external tax consultants, auditors, and legal advisors to ensure proper management of tax affairs
o Manage relationships with tax authorities and ensure efficient resolution of any tax-related queries or concerns.
Skills & Competencies:
- In-depth knowledge of the Income-tax Act, 1961, and its provisions, including TDS, transfer pricing, international tax, and tax laws.
- Strong understanding of mergers and acquisitions, including the tax consequences and structuring strategies.
- Proficiency in MS Excel, tax-related software, and accounting systems.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills to deal with both internal and external stakeholders.
Education Qualification:
Any Graduate
