Gorka Echevarria. (board member at Tax Executives Institute)

• Date: 01 March 2024

When Gorka Echevarria made the move to Lexmark in 2018, he realized an exciting opportunity to oversee the entire indirect tax function of the corporation. "The prospect of steering a significant transformation within the department, including the enhancement of tools and processes, was particularly appealing," he says.

As the global VAT director at Lexmark, Echevarria spearheads the formulation and implementation of a robust global indirect tax strategy. This involves ensuring meticulous compliance with myriad international tax regulations, encompassing value-added tax (VAT), goods and services tax (GST), and other pertinent levies. "My focus extends beyond mere compliance--I actively work to minimize risks, optimize operational efficiency, and provide strategic counsel to our executive leadership," he says.

"Collaboration is at the heart of my role, as I engage closely with internal stakeholders, including finance, legal, and supply chain teams," he explains. "This approach ensures that our indirect tax strategies align seamlessly with broader business objectives, contributing to a cohesive and integrated financial management framework."

Recognizing the dynamic nature of indirect taxation, Echevarria champions Lexmark's adoption of streamlined processes and cutting-edge technology in its tax functions. This adoption not only ensures reporting accuracy but also alleviates...