Manager - Indirect Taxation

Job Title: Manager – Indirect Taxation (Customs)Department: Taxation Location: [Insert Location] Reporting To: Head – Indirect Taxation Role Purpose:As a Manager – Indirect Taxation (Customs) at Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd, you will be responsible for providing expert advisory on Customs-related matters in cross-border transactions. Your key focus will be on determining duty structures, optimizing tax benefits through regulatory schemes, and ensuring full compliance with Customs laws. You will play a critical role in supporting litigation, improving trade competitiveness, and reducing compliance risks. Key Responsibilities:Customs Advisory & Transaction ManagementAdvise on the Customs impact of cross-border transactions. Determine effective customs duty rates and evaluate past classifications. Identify and implement suitable importation schemes (e.g., EPCG, Advance Authorization, SEZ, etc.) to optimize duty benefits. Collaborate with stakeholders like Customs House Agents (CHAs), freight forwarders, and Customs Warehouse teams. Proactively identify opportunities for improving trade competitiveness through duty structure optimization. Compliance & Risk ManagementEnsure strict compliance with Customs laws and regulatory requirements. Assess and mitigate Customs-related compliance risks. Develop and implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for uniform business practices across the organization. Provide guidance and training to internal stakeholders on Customs compliance requirements and regulatory updates. Litigation & Legal HandlingManage and track all litigation cases pertaining to Customs duty. Draft responses to notices received from Customs and other tax authorities. Attend personal hearings and represent the company in proceedings. Coordinate with legal counsels and tax consultants on appellate matters. Prepare appeals and maintain records for all cases across different stages of litigation. Collaboration & SupportWork closely with indirect tax compliance teams to support day-to-day operations. Liaise with internal departments, external partners, and government authorities to ensure timely and effective resolution of Customs matters. Qualifications:Essential: CA / CMA / CS / LLB / Master’s in Commerce or relevant qualification Desirable: Specialized training or certifications in Indirect Taxation or Customs Law Experience:6–12 years of experience in Indirect Taxation, specifically Customs Hands-on experience in Customs duty advisory, litigation management, and regulatory compliance Preferred Background:Experience with large manufacturing, automotive, or multinational organizations In-depth understanding of Indian Customs laws, foreign trade policy, and import/export procedures Prior interaction with DGFT, CBIC, SEZ authorities, and other regulatory bodies Key Skills:Strong knowledge of Customs laws, FTP schemes, and duty structure Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills Proficiency in drafting legal responses and preparing appeals Analytical mindset with attention to detail Ability to work independently and handle litigation strategically