About ZEISS:
ZEISS is an internationally leading technology enterprise operating in the fields of optics and optoelectronics. For its customers, ZEISS develops, produces and distributes highly innovative solutions for industrial metrology and quality assurance, microscopy solutions for the life sciences and materials research, and medical technology solutions for diagnostics and treatment in ophthalmology and microsurgery.
With around 43,000 employees, ZEISS is active globally in almost 50 countries with around 30 production sites, 60 sales and service companies and 27 research and development facilities. Founded in 1846 in Jena, the company is headquartered in Oberkochen, Germany.
ZEISS in India is headquartered in Bengaluru and present in the fields of Industrial Quality Solutions, Research Microscopy Solutions, Medical Technology, Vision Care and Sports & Cine Optics. ZEISS India has 3 production facilities, R&D center, Global IT services and about 40 Sales & Service offices in almost all Tier I and Tier II cities in India. With 2200+ employees and continued investments over 25 years in India, ZEISS’ success story in India is continuing at a rapid pace.
Job Summary:
The Head of Controlling will be responsible for leading the financial controlling/controllership function at Carl Zeiss India. This role will involve overseeing commercial finance, business partnering, budgeting, forecasting, financial digitization & transformation, and financial reporting processes. The individual will work closely with senior management to provide insights and recommendations that drive business performance, demonstrate customer centricity, and ensure alignment with the company’s strategic objectives.
Key Responsibilities:
Financial Budgeting:
- Lead the preparation of annual budgets, quarterly forecasts, and long-term financial plans for all strategic business units within ZEISS India supported by a team.
- Analyze financial performance against budgets and forecasts, identifying variances and providing actionable insights to management on pricing, costs, FX and product mix.
- Develop and maintain financial models to support strategic decision-making as well as drive new business initiatives/pilots.
- Collaborate with business units to understand key drivers of financial performance and incorporate them into financial planning processes.
Business Partnering:
- Act as a trusted advisor to the commercial leadership team, providing financial guidance and support in decision-making.
- Foster strong relationships with key stakeholders across the organization, including sales, marketing, operations, and R&D.
- Support the CFO and executive team in strategic planning, performance management, and business development initiatives.
Commercial Strategy & Support:
- Collaborate with business leaders to develop and execute commercial strategies that drive revenue growth and profitability.
- Provide financial insights and analysis to support decision-making in areas such as pricing, product mix, and market expansion.
- Lead the financial evaluation of new business opportunities, including partnerships, investments, and mergers & acquisitions.
- Analyze product margins and profitability by customer, product line, and geography, and make recommendations for improvement.
- Work with the sales and marketing teams to develop pricing models for new products and services.
Financial Reporting:
- Drive timely and accurate financial reporting, including monthly, quarterly, and annual reports ably supported by the team.
- Prepare consolidated financial statements and management reports in compliance with corporate guidelines and statutory requirements.
- Oversee the preparation of financial reports for the Board of Directors and senior management.
- Ensure compliance with IFRS, local GAAP, and other relevant accounting standards.
Cost Control & Optimization:
- Monitor and control operational expenses, ensuring cost efficiency across the organization.
- Identify opportunities for cost savings and efficiency improvements, and lead initiatives to implement them.
- Work with procurement and other departments to optimize purchasing processes and manage supplier relationships.
Team Leadership & Development:
- Lead, mentor, and develop the controlling team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional growth.
- Set performance goals and conduct regular performance reviews, providing feedback and coaching to team members.
- Ensure the controlling function is adequately resourced and equipped with the necessary tools and skills to deliver high-quality results.
Key Requirements:
Educational Qualifications:
- Chartered Accountant (CA) or MBA in Finance or similar Post-graduate qualification from a reputed institution.
- Experience in working with data analytics and visualization tools (such a PowerBI).
Experience:
- 10-15 years of experience in financial controlling/controllership and/or commercial finance with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
- Experience in a multinational company and/or start-ups, preferably in the manufacturing, technology, or healthcare sectors.
- Proven track record of managing high-visibility, complex financial processes and delivering high-quality results.
Skills & Competencies:
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex financial data and provide actionable insights.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate with senior management.
- In-depth knowledge of financial reporting standards (IFRS, GAAP) and regulatory requirements.
- Proficiency in financial planning and analysis tools, ERP systems (e.g., SAP, S4/HANA), and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Strong leadership and team management skills, with a focus on developing high-performing teams.
- High level of integrity, with a commitment to ethical business practices and compliance.
Personal Attributes:
- Strategic thinker with a proactive and hands-on approach.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with a high degree of flexibility and adaptability.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy, with a focus on delivering quality work.
- Ability to figure things out with high energy & positive attitude towards diverse teams.
Why Join Carl Zeiss India:
- Opportunity to work with a global leader in the optics and optoelectronics industry.
- Collaborative and inclusive work environment with a focus on innovation and continuous learning.
- Competitive compensation package and benefits, including opportunities for career development and growth.