CIGNA

Accounting Operations Director , GCC

Hyderabad, India Full time

Accounting Operations Lead –Director
 

Position Summary:

Evernorth is seeking a dynamic and visionary individual to lead and develop our emerging Accounting team at our Global Capability Center (GCC) location in Hyderabad. This pivotal role offers a unique opportunity to shape and develop a high-performing team from the ground up in a fast-growing, innovative environment. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional leadership skills, a passion for driving change, and a commitment to fostering a culture of continuous growth and development. The individual will lead and oversee accounting operations for the GCC location, ensuring timeliness, accuracy, and compliance with global accounting policies and regulatory requirements. This role drives process excellence, supports business growth, and ensures timely financial close and reporting.

The responsibilities for this role include, but are not limited to:

Summary of Key Responsibilities:

  • Team Building and Leadership: Lead the recruitment, training, and development of a talented accounting team. Foster an environment where team members can achieve their full potential and deliver exceptional results.
  • Change Management: Lead change initiatives to enhance team performance, operational efficiency, and adaptability. Foster a culture of innovation and adaptability.
  • Emerging Development Opportunities: Proactively identify and leverage emerging opportunities to enhance team capabilities and service offerings. Stay abreast of industry trends and best practices to ensure the team remains at the forefront of the accounting field.
  • Technical Expertise: Apply a deep understanding of US Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and statutory insurance accounting. Ensure compliance with relevant policies and standards.
  • Continuous Learning: Champion a growth mindset and encourage continuous learning and professional development within the team. Stay updated on the latest developments in accounting practices and technologies.
  • Operational Oversight: Oversee the day-to-day operations of the accounting team, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and timely delivery of services. Establish and maintain robust internal controls and processes.

Risk & Controls:

  • Ensure effective execution and documentation of accounting controls owned by GCC accounting functions.
  • Enhance internal controls to mitigate risks and ensure compliance with company policies, SOX and NAIC Model Audit Rule (if applicable).

Process Excellence:

  • Facilitate documentation of tasks, process workflows and foundational artifacts necessary to ensure effective process management and execution.
  • Drive continuous improvement, leveraging automation and technology to optimize accounting processes.
  • Collaborate with Global Finance teams as well as other partners to streamline workflows and standardize processes.

Business Partnership:

  • Cultivate strong and productive engagement with US based accounting team as well as GPO accounting partners based in India.
  • Provide accounting insights to support strategic initiatives and decision-making.

Competencies / Skills:

  • Leadership: Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and guide a team toward achieving common goals.
  • Analytical Thinking: Ability to analyze complex financial data and provide insightful recommendations.
  • Problem-Solving: Proactive approach to identifying and resolving issues efficiently and effectively.
  • Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and concisely.
  • Adaptability: Flexibility to adapt to new challenges and changing environments.
  • Technical Proficiency: Proficient in accounting software and tools, with a strong understanding of accounting operations, financial reporting, and internal controls.
  • Attention to Detail: High level of accuracy and attention to detail in all aspects of work.
  • Collaboration: Strong team player with the ability to work collaboratively with colleagues across different functions and locations. Demonstrated ability to navigate and influence within a highly matrixed organization.
  • Business Partnership Mindset: Ability to influence, challenge constructively, and build consensus.
  • Time Management: Strong time management skills, with the ability to prioritize and deliver on multiple deadlines.

Qualifications/Skills :

  • Post Graduate/ master’s degree in finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related field (MBA/CA/ICWA/CFA/CPA preferred).
  • 18 to 20 years of progressive financial accounting experience, including at least 6 years in a leadership capacity.
  • Proven leadership experience within accounting & finance functions.
  • Expertise in US GAAP and statutory insurance accounting.
  • Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
  • Ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and adapt to evolving priorities.
  • Ability to foster collaboration, value other perspectives, gain support and buy-in.
  • Demonstrated ability to drive change and foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
  • Strong understanding of US GAAP, with experience and understanding of NAIC insurance/reinsurance accounting preferred but not required.
  • Experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, NetSuite) and reporting tools (e.g., Hyperion, Oracle EPM).

About Evernorth Health Services

Evernorth Health Services, a division of The Cigna Group, creates pharmacy, care and benefit solutions to improve health and increase vitality. We relentlessly innovate to make the prediction, prevention and treatment of illness and disease more accessible to millions of people. Join us in driving growth and improving lives.