HIMANSHU LODHA

Preparing and filing VAT returns for group companies on a monthly and quarterly basis and guiding the team on regular updates in VAT rules and regulations. Preparation for the tax audits conducted by the FTA. Guiding the team on a regular basis for maintaining proper documentation for VAT purposes. Advising the management on VAT implications before engaging into contracts or transactions. Actively engaging in trade financing, handling import & export LC, and negotiating margins with all major banks, including Habib & ENBD. Developing risk management and mitigation strategies by analyzing the corporate contracts and binding the parties involved to performance obligation and compliance with the terms. Identifying alternate investment opportunities and strategically managing the investment portfolio. Conducting tax planning and corporate restructuring for upcoming corporate tax obligations, while keeping the team regularly updated on relevant corporate tax developments. Actively engaging in group and standalone audits. Leading finance operations in subsidiaries set up in Brazil, Netherlands, Turkey, and Argentina. Analyzing variances in actual expenses and budgeted expenses of various branches to ensure financial efficiency and effectiveness.

Engaged in decision-making activities for investment of the funds generated from the core operations into the market. Calculated, reconciled, and monitored the proper availment of input credit for GST and ensured compliances monthly. Led projects as the Project Head for system-driven settlements between various insurance companies. Engaged and communicated with the external auditor on a regular basis for the sole as well as consolidated audit of the group financial statements. Participated in system development through automation. Prepared reconciliations for brokerage payments and balance settlements, ensuring regulatory compliances. Reviewed transactions to ensure that internal controls at each step were effective and efficient.

Accounted for and finalized books of US-based clients using various QuickBooks versions. Reconciled bank accounts and client books to ensure accuracy and compliance. Conducted payroll reconciliation through Payroll Returns, ADP, Paycheck, Accountant World, and Sure Payroll, ensuring accuracy in employee compensation. Analyzed tax liabilities and optimized tax planning strategies to minimize tax exposure for the clients Responded to departmental notices and inquiries related to tax matters, maintaining compliance with tax authorities. Provided insights and recommendations to management based on financial analysis to drive business growth and profitability. Monitored changes in accounting standards and regulations to ensure timely adaptation and compliance. Implemented internal controls and processes to safeguard assets and maintain integrity in financial reporting.

Registered and filed returns for various organizations under VAT/GST, ensuring compliance with tax laws and regulations. Provided expert advice to businesses on transaction mapping and contract modifications post- VAT/GST registration to optimize tax efficiency. Offered guidance to clients on transitional provisions of GST and its implications, helping them navigate tax changes effectively. Conducted physical verification of investments and fixed assets to ensure accuracy and integrity of financial records. Reviewed various processes to identify key areas for operational improvement, optimizing efficiency and reducing costs. Participated in the review and finalization of Balance Sheets and Profit and Loss accounts, ensuring accuracy and compliance with accounting standards. Scrutinized and reconciled statutory dues such as TDS, Service Tax, and Sales Tax, ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements. Drafted audit reports in accordance with applicable statutes, facilitating compliance with audit requirements. Conducted ledger scrutiny to verify the accuracy and completeness of financial transactions. Reviewed previous year tax audit reports to identify areas for improvement and ensure compliance with tax regulations. Maintained positive relationships with clients, addressing their financial queries and providing timely assistance on tax-related matters.