Manager Indirect Taxation - Customs

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.