Overview Lead the financial evaluation and business partnering agenda for India BU Innovation projects by providing robust financial analysis, business case development, profitability assessments, and decision support throughout the innovation stage-gate process. Partner closely with Commercial, Marketing, FP&A, Sales, Supply Chain, R&D, and Project teams to influence business decisions, challenge assumptions, identify risks and opportunities, and ensure delivery of value-accretive innovation initiatives. Drive governance excellence, financial accuracy, and continuous process improvements while serving as the key Finance representative for innovation projects and business reviews. Responsibilities • Lead financial evaluation and business case development for innovation projects across stage-gate milestones. • Build and maintain Innovation P&Ls, profitability models, and investment assessments. • Partner with Marketing, Commercial, Sales, Supply Chain, R&D, and FP&A teams to validate assumptions and drive decisions. • Provide financial recommendations for Hopper, Gate 1, Gate 2, and leadership governance reviews.Identify risks, opportunities, and value-enhancing actions to improve project economics. • Prepare and present financial insights, business cases, and approval materials to leadership teams. • Support AOP & Forecast in Volume/Value submissions. • Execute COPA month-end analysis and provide performance variance commentary. • Ensure data accuracy, governance compliance, and alignment across innovation systems and reports. • Drive process improvements, automation, and standardization within Innovation Finance Qualifications • 7-8 years of experience preferred in FP&A role in a manufacturing company, FMCG preferred • Bachelor’s/Master’s Degree in commerce/business administration with a high level of Finance & Accounting Experience. CA/ICWAI/MBA/CPA Finance is preferred • Sound knowledge of Financial systems (SAP, MS Office and Other financial reporting systems) • Strong understanding of business processes related to Supply Chain & Commercial • Strong technical knowledge and experience of both Management reporting and planning processes • Exceptional communication skills. Proficiency in the English language