Head – Shared Services

Key Responsibilities

Shared Services Setup & Implementation:

• Lead the design, planning, and execution of the F&A Shared Services Center (SSC) from the ground up.
• Work closely with senior management to define the scope of services and develop an implementation roadmap for the setup.
• Oversee the recruitment and training of the F&A shared services team.
• Identify and select appropriate technology platforms, tools, and systems to support finance processes (e.g., ERP systems, automation tools).
• Develop and document processes and workflows for all F&A functions, ensuring scalability and standardization.

Process Standardization & Optimization:

• Standardize and optimize finance and accounting processes across multiple business units to achieve operational efficiencies.
• Ensure the implementation of best practices in financial transaction processing, reporting, and control mechanisms.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (e.g., IT, HR, Operations) to ensure the smooth integration of processes.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity, reduce cycle times, and improve accuracy.

Operational Management:

• Manage day-to-day operations of the Shared Services Centre, ensuring the accurate and timely processing of financial transactions.
• Oversee key finance processes such as accounts payable (AP), accounts receivable (AR), payroll processing, general ledger, reconciliations, tax reporting, and fixed asset management.
• Monitor and ensure adherence to service level agreements (SLAs) and key performance indicators (KPIs) for all financial services provided.
• Act as the primary point of contact for resolving escalations and process-related issues within the shared services team.

Team Leadership & Development:

• Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing F&A shared services team.
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous learning within the shared services environment.
• Develop talent management programs, including training and development plans, performance appraisals, and succession planning.
• Provide leadership and guidance on complex finance issues, ensuring the team is aligned with business goals and objectives.

Financial Reporting & Compliance:

• Ensure the accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of financial statements, reports, and other deliverables.
• Oversee the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports, ensuring compliance with accounting standards (e.g., GAAP, IFRS).
• Ensure compliance with internal controls, policies, and procedures, as well as all applicable regulatory requirements.
• Support internal and external audits by providing required documentation and resolving audit queries.

Technology & Automation:

• Lead the automation of repetitive finance tasks using robotic process automation (RPA) or other digital tools to reduce manual workload and improve efficiency.
• Evaluate and implement finance tools (ERP systems, financial reporting software) to improve the accuracy and efficiency of financial operations.
• Ensure seamless integration of the shared services centre with other finance and business systems.

Stakeholder Management & Collaboration:

• Act as the liaison between the shared services team and senior management, business units, and external partners.
• Collaborate with key stakeholders to identify their needs and ensure shared services deliverables meet business expectations.
• Manage relationships with third-party vendors and service providers for outsourced finance processes.

Risk Management & Controls:

• Identify and mitigate financial risks within the shared services function.
• Establish and maintain a strong internal control framework to ensure the integrity of financial data.
• Ensure compliance with all financial regulations and standards, minimizing operational risks.

Project Management:

• Lead key finance transformation projects, from planning and design to execution and evaluation.
• Manage timelines, budgets, and resources for shared services setup and expansion initiatives.
• Drive post-implementation reviews to assess performance, identify gaps, and make necessary adjustments.

Qualification & Requirements

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field. A Master’s degree in Finance, Business Administration, or a related discipline is preferred.
• Professional certifications such as CA, CPA, CMA, or ACCA are highly desirable.

Experience:

• 8-10 years of experience in Finance & Accounting, with at least 3-5 years of experience in setting up or managing F&A Shared Services.
• Prior experience in a leadership role within a shared services environment is essential.

Technical Skills:

• Strong understanding of financial processes such as AP, AR, payroll, general ledger, and tax reporting.
• Experience with ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, or Microsoft Dynamics. Hands-on experience with automation tools such as RPA (UiPath, Blue Prism, etc.) is preferred.
• Knowledge of financial reporting standards (GAAP, IFRS) and compliance frameworks.

Key Competencies:

• Leadership & People Management: Strong leadership capabilities to build and manage large teams in a shared services environment.
• Project Management: Demonstrated experience in managing large-scale projects, from planning to execution.
• Financial Acumen: Deep knowledge of financial operations, accounting principles, and financial reporting standards.
• Process Optimization: Expertise in process standardisation, optimization, and automation in a shared services setup.
• Analytical Thinking: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
• Stakeholder Management: Excellent communication and collaboration skills to manage internal and external stakeholders effectively.
• Adaptability: Ability to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment, with a focus on continuous improvement and change management.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Health and wellness benefits, including medical insurance.
• Opportunities for career growth within the organization.
• Exposure to leading financial technologies and practices.