Manager Indirect taxation - Customs

Job description

**Position Summary - Manager Indirect taxation - Customs** **The Manager – Indirect Taxation (Customs)** will be responsible for managing customs compliance, import/export taxation, and regulatory matters related to aircraft, aircraft parts, engineering spares, ground support equipment, and other aviation-related procurements. The role requires close coordination with Finance, Procurement, Engineering, Logistics, Commercial, and external authorities to ensure statutory compliance, optimize duty costs, and mitigate tax risks. **Key Responsibilities** **Customs & Trade Compliance** - Ensure compliance with Customs Act, Foreign Trade Policy (FTP), Customs Tariff Act, and other applicable indirect tax regulations. - Manage customs clearances for aircraft parts, engines, tools, consumables, and ground support equipment. - Oversee import/export transactions and ensure accurate classification, valuation, and applicability of customs duties. - Monitor customs notifications, circulars, and amendments impacting aviation operations. - Ensure proper documentation and maintenance of records for customs audits and departmental reviews. **Duty Optimization & Tax Advisory** - Evaluate opportunities for customs duty exemptions, concessions, and benefits available to the aviation sector. - Advise internal stakeholders on customs implications relating to procurement, leasing, repair, and maintenance activities. - Support implementation of duty-saving initiatives while ensuring full regulatory compliance. - Provide tax advisory support on import of aircraft, aircraft engines, aviation fuel-related equipment, and MRO-related transactions. **Regulatory & Litigation Management** - Handle customs assessments, investigations, audits, notices, and departmental inquiries. - Liaise with Customs Authorities, DGFT, Airport Customs offices, consultants, and legal counsels. - Prepare responses to notices, appeals, and representations before customs authorities. - Drive closure of outstanding customs litigations and disputes. **GST & Indirect Tax Coordination** - Collaborate with GST team on tax implications of import/export transactions. - Ensure proper reconciliation between customs documentation, GST filings, and financial records. - Review customs duties and import-related taxes for financial reporting purposes. **Stakeholder Management** - Partner with Engineering, Supply Chain, Procurement, Stores, Logistics, and Finance teams for seamless customs compliance. - Guide business teams on customs regulations relating to aircraft maintenance, AOG (Aircraft on Ground) requirements, and international procurement. - Manage relationships with customs brokers, freight forwarders, and logistics service providers. **Process Improvement & Controls** - Develop and strengthen customs compliance frameworks and SOPs. - Implement internal controls to minimize customs risks and ensure timely clearances. - Support automation and digitization initiatives related to customs documentation and compliance tracking. - Monitor KPIs related to customs clearance timelines, duty savings, audit observations, and litigation management. **Qualifications** - Chartered Accountant (CA) / Cost Accountant (CMA) / MBA Finance / LLB (Taxation preferred). - Additional certification in Customs, International Trade, or Indirect Taxation will be an advantage. **Experience** - 6–8 years of experience in Indirect Taxation with significant exposure to Customs. - Strong experience in customs clearance, import/export transactions, tax litigation, and regulatory compliance.