Roles & Responsibilities of a Finance & Accounts Head in a Startup (India)1. Financial Planning & Strategy
Develop and implement financial strategies aligned with business goals.
Create financial forecasts, budgeting, and financial models.
Ensure financial sustainability and cost optimization.
2. Accounting & Compliance
Maintain accurate financial records and manage bookkeeping.
Oversee tax filings (GST, TDS, Income Tax, etc.) and regulatory compliance (MCA, RBI, FEMA if applicable).
Ensure adherence to accounting standards (Ind AS/IFRS).
3. Fundraising & Investor Relations
Support fundraising efforts (venture capital, debt financing, government grants).
Prepare financial reports and pitch decks for investors.
Manage investor relations and due diligence processes.
4. Cash Flow & Expense Management
Monitor cash flow and working capital requirements.
Optimize expenses, vendor payments, and cost control measures.
Establish policies for procurement, expense approvals, and financial discipline.
5. Risk Management & Compliance
Identify and mitigate financial risks.
Ensure internal controls and financial governance.
Comply with statutory and legal financial regulations.
6. Payroll & Employee Benefits
Oversee payroll processing and statutory deductions (EPF, ESI, gratuity).
Design and implement employee stock options (ESOPs) if applicable.
7. Technology & Automation
Implement and oversee financial software (Tally, Zoho Books, QuickBooks, ERP).
Optimize financial processes using technology.
8. Coordination with Stakeholders
Work closely with the CEO, investors, banks, and auditors.
Support decision-making with data-driven insights.
Liaise with legal, HR, and procurement teams for financial matters.
Qualifications & Skills RequiredEducation
CA (Chartered Accountant)
- Preferred
CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst)
- Added advantage
MBA (Finance) from a reputed institute
- Preferred for startups
CMA (Cost & Management Accountant)
- For cost control-focused roles
Experience
5-10 years in finance/accounting, preferably in a startup or fast-growing company.
Experience in fundraising, investor relations, and financial modeling is a plus.