Manager Direct Taxation

The Manager – Direct Tax will support the Taxation Lead in managing end‑to‑end Direct Tax compliance, assessments, litigation, and transfer pricing support (including APA matters) in India for a large multinational pharmaceutical organization. The role carries hands‑on responsibility for execution and coordination across TDS compliances, annual returns, statutory filings, assessments, and litigation support.

The incumbent will work closely with external legal counsels and Big 4 consultants , prepare technical submissions, support Advance Pricing Arrangement (APA) processes , respond to notices, and represent the organization before Direct Tax authorities. The role requires strong technical knowledge, execution rigor, and the ability to manage multiple tax matters in a controlled and compliant manner, under the guidance of the Taxation Lead.

1. Direct Tax Compliance & Filings

·       Execute and manage Direct Tax compliances under the Income-tax Act, including preparation, review, and filing of annual income tax returns and related schedules.

·       Manage TDS compliances , including monthly/quarterly TDS returns, TDS reconciliations , Form 26Q/24Q filings, and resolution of mismatches.

·       Ensure timely filing of statutory forms and certificates , including Form 3CD, Form 3CEB (as applicable), and other prescribed disclosures.

·       Coordinate data collection from Finance and Business teams to ensure accuracy and completeness of filings.

2. Tax Assessments, Notices & Litigation Support

·       Handle tax assessments, scrutiny proceedings, reassessments, and rectification matters , under the guidance of the Taxation Lead.

·       Prepare detailed responses to notices, questionnaires, and information requests issued by tax authorities.

·       Draft submissions, statements of facts, and technical notes for appeals and litigation matters.

·       Maintain tracking of open assessments, demands, refunds, and litigation status.

3. Authority Representation & Hearings

·       Appear before Direct Tax Authorities (Assessing Officers, CIT(A), DRP, etc.) for hearings, submissions, and clarifications, as required.

·       Support the Taxation Lead during complex hearings, negotiations, and strategic discussions with authorities.

·       Ensure timely follow-up on hearing outcomes, orders, and next steps.

4. Advance Pricing Arrangement (APA) & Transfer Pricing Support

·       Provide execution support for Advance Pricing Arrangement (APA) matters , including data collation, preparation of submissions, and coordination with consultants.

·       Assist in APA negotiations, meetings, and information requests from tax authorities, under the direction of the Taxation Lead.

·       Support transfer pricing compliance , including Form 3CEB filings, documentation reviews, and responses to transfer pricing audits.

·       Coordinate with Global Tax teams, Big 4 consultants, and internal stakeholders to ensure consistency of positions and timely delivery.

·       Maintain documentation, trackers, and audit trails for APA and transfer pricing matters.

5. Coordination with External Advisors

·       Work closely with external legal counsels and Big 4 firms on tax audits, assessments, APA matters, and litigation.

·       Review draft submissions, opinions, and appeal documents prepared by advisors for technical accuracy and alignment with company positions.

·       Monitor timelines, deliverables, and costs associated with external advisors.

6. Tax Accounting, Documentation & Controls

·       Support tax provisioning and tax accounting processes, including current tax and deferred tax computations.

·       Assist in preparation of tax audit documentation and responses to statutory and internal auditors.

·       Maintain robust documentation, controls, and audit trails for all Direct Tax and APA‑related matters.

·       Ensure adherence to internal SOPs, governance frameworks, and compliance calendars.