South Asia & ASEAN Tax Lead

# South Asia & ASEAN Tax Lead (Complex Litigation & Controversy Management) Role Overview We are seeking South Asia Tax Head to join our regional tax team. Reporting to the Regional Tax Head, this role will have end-to-end responsibility for India alongside a broader portfolio of additional countries, defined in line with the candidate’s experience, technical depth and overall impact. The role provides extensive exposure to regional and international tax matters and a meaningful opportunity to influence the tax agenda across multiple jurisdictions. In this position, the Tax Head leads South Asia tax function (tax planning, compliance, reporting and manage complex tax controversies and litigations across direct tax, indirect tax, and international tax matters. Partner closely with business teams to provide tax services, ensure efficient tax administration and compliance processes, defend audits and disputes, and drive strategic tax planning to improve after-tax business results. ## Key Responsibilities * Plan, manage, and strategize tax controversies and complex tax litigations; defend audits and disputes with tax authorities. * Draft high-quality submissions/representations and support arguing matters before relevant authorities, as applicable. * Provide end-to-end tax services in partnership with business teams; deliver practical tax advice and planning for business decisions. * Ensure efficient and effective tax administration, governance, and processes; assure that appropriate tax returns and payments are filed on time. * Own tax accounting and global tax reporting requirements, including tax provision and disclosures (e.g., ASC 740/FIN 48), uncertain tax positions/reserves, and reporting pack submissions. * Coordinate global/international tax reporting and computations (as applicable), including Subpart F income and related data requirements for group reporting. * Perform complex tax research and analysis; interpret tax policy, procedures, and law to ensure compliance. * Lead and partner on tax projects (including audits) and provide responses and inputs for reviews and assessments. * Manage complex domestic and international tax matters, including Transfer Pricing, APA, and MAP engagements, as relevant. * Identify tax efficiencies and support structuring of business operations in a tax-optimal manner. * Engage with local/country tax authorities to respond to and resolve complex issues; maintain effective working relationships. * Support the shaping of tax legislation and positions through engagement with local/country tax authorities, where required. * Lead, develop, and manage a team of tax professionals; lead by example and foster a collaborative culture. ## Key Skills & Capabilities * In-depth knowledge of Indian taxation, including direct tax, indirect tax, and international tax. * Strong capability in managing complex tax litigations/controversies, including drafting and advocacy support before authorities. * Hands-on experience with complex domestic and international tax matters, including Transfer Pricing, APA, and MAP. * Strong compliance orientation with understanding of tax administration processes, reconciliations, and governance. * Comfort with ERP systems and digital tools; leverages modern tools such as AI and bots to improve efficiency and compliance. * Strong stakeholder management with the ability to build credibility with tax authorities and maintain a strong network with the tax lawyer fraternity. * High communication, collaboration, and networking skills. ## Qualifications & Experience * 15+ years of relevant experience in taxation, with demonstrated ability to manage the tax function independently at a country level. * CA with a Law degree (Lawyer) preferred. * Preferred background: Big 4 and/or leading tax law firms, with strong exposure to complex tax litigation and controversy management. * Proven experience leading country-level tax responsibilities and managing a team of tax professionals. * Demonstrated experience handling complex tax controversies/litigations and defending audits, including preparation of responses, submissions, and positions. * Experience partnering with business teams to deliver strategic tax planning, compliance, and advisory support.