Head of Accounts / Head Accountant
An Accounting Head (also known as Head of Accounts or Head Accountant) manages the overall financial operations, accounting teams, and reporting structures of an organization.
Role Overview
The Accounting Head will oversee all daily financial transactions, manage the accounting team, enforce internal financial controls, and ensure full compliance with statutory, tax, and regulatory laws. This role bridges day-to-day bookkeeping with executive-level financial planning, cash flow management, and forecasting.
Key Responsibilities
- Department Supervision: Manage and mentor accounting and finance personnel (including staff accountants, accounts payable/receivable, and payroll teams).
- General Ledger & Month-End Close: Own the general ledger and chart of accounts; execute timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial closes.
- Financial Reporting: Prepare and deliver accurate balance sheets, profit and loss (P&L) statements, cash flow reports, and trial balances to executive management.
- Budgeting & Forecasting: Assist in developing annual budgets, financial projections, and variance analysis to track company performance.
- Cash Flow & Risk Management: Monitor cash flow requirements, manage liquidity risks, and oversee working capital.
- Audit & Compliance: Coordinate internal and external audits, manage statutory filings, and ensure compliance with local tax laws (e.g., GST/corporate tax) and accounting standards (GAAP/Ind AS).
- Internal Controls: Design, implement, and maintain internal financial controls to safeguard company assets and prevent fraud.
- Leadership & Communication: Excellent team-management, problem-solving, and cross-departmental communication.
Required Qualifications & Education
- Education: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Accounting, Finance, or Commerce (B.Com / M.Com / MBA in Finance).
- Certifications: Professional credentials such as CA (Chartered Accountant), CPA (Certified Public Accountant), or CMA are strongly preferred.
- Experience: Minimum of 5+ years of progressive accounting experience, with at least 2-3 years in a supervisory or leadership role.
Key Skills & Competencies
- Technical Software Proficiency: Advanced knowledge of accounting platforms (e.g., Tally, SAP, QuickBooks, Oracle, or MS Dynamics) and advanced Microsoft Excel.
- Regulatory Knowledge: In-depth understanding of corporate tax laws, statutory compliance, and financial reporting standards.
- Analytical Mindset: Strong ability to analyze financial data, spot variances, and translate numbers into strategic business advice.