The Centre for Law and Policy Research (CLPR) is a not-for-profit trust based in Bengaluru, dedicated to making the Constitution work for everyone through law and policy research, social and governance interventions, and strategic impact litigation. Our primary focus is on addressing discrimination at the intersections of caste, gender, disability, and other minority groups. To learn more, visit clpr.org.in.
About the Position:
CLPR is seeking an experienced Senior Accountant to lead its finance and accounting function. Reporting to the Director of Operations, the Senior Accountant will be the primary point of contact for all matters related to billing, taxation, regulatory compliance, and accounting procedures across the organisation. This is a leadership role requiring both technical accounting expertise and the ability to manage and mentor junior accounts staff.
Responsibilities will include:
1. Financial Management & Reporting
- Manage day-to-day accounting operations, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, and general ledger maintenance.
- Prepare and review balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow reports on a regular basis.
- Develop, implement, and improve accounting policies, processes, and internal controls.
- Manage organisational and project-level budgets; track and reconcile expenses against income.
- Maintain accurate financial records in both electronic and physical formats.
- Meet regularly with project teams to track expenses and plan purchases.
2. Taxation & Regulatory Compliance
- Ensure timely and accurate filing of GST returns, TDS, income tax for trusts, and FCRA statements.
- Maintain FCRA-segregated accounts and ensure proper recording and reporting of foreign contribution utilisation.
- Liaise with tax consultants, external auditors, and government authorities as required.
- Monitor and stay current with changes in tax laws and FCRA regulations.
3. Audits
- Plan, coordinate, and support internal audits and audits conducted with funding partners and statutory auditors.
- Ensure audit readiness through well-organised, accurate, and up-to-date documentation at all times.
- Identify audit findings and implement corrective measures as needed.
4. Team & Stakeholder Management
- Supervise, mentor, and provide day-to-day direction to junior accounts staff.
- Collaborate with the HR and Operations teams on payroll processing and related finance functions.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for billing, tax, and accounting queries from internal teams and external stakeholders.
Required Skills
- Strong command of Indian accounting principles, GST, TDS, and FCRA compliance.
- Proficiency in accounting software such as Tally, QuickBooks, or equivalent.
- Advanced MS Excel skills including pivot tables, VLOOKUP, and financial modelling.
- Experience planning and conducting financial audits and preparing fiscal reports.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to accurate documentation and record keeping.
- Ability to lead and coordinate a small team and build capacity in junior staff.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with diverse stakeholders.
- High degree of integrity, confidentiality, and professional ethics.
Education & Experience
Essential
- Bachelor’s degree in Commerce, Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline.
- CA, CMA, or equivalent professional qualification strongly preferred.
- Minimum 5–7 years of progressive accounting experience, with at least 2 years in a senior or supervisory role.
- Prior experience in an NGO, trust, or not-for-profit organisation highly desirable.
- Hands-on experience with FCRA accounting and reporting.
Desirable
- Master’s degree or postgraduate diploma in Finance or Business Administration.
- Experience with international donors, grant management, or project-based accounting.
Remuneration
Commensurate with qualifications and experience
How to Apply
Interested candidates should send their application to careers.clpr@clpr.org.in with the subject line:
“Application for Senior Accountant – [Your Name]”
Attach:
- Updated CV
- Cover letter (500–800 words)
- Two professional references (name, designation, organisation, and contact details)
For queries about the role or the organisation, write to vineeth.krishna@clpr.org.in
CLPR is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages persons from SC/ST backgrounds, minority religions, LGBTQIA+ persons, and persons with disabilities to apply.
This is a full-time opportunity based out of Bengaluru.