With more than three decades of expertise spanning global tax strategy, financial planning, and corporate governance, Siva Sellathurai has built a distinguished career at the intersection of leadership, technical proficiency, and strategic foresight. His professional philosophy, “Clarity in complexity leads to meaningful change,” underscores a lifelong commitment to bringing transparency to financial operations and elevating enterprise value through sound, ethical leadership.
Siva began his professional journey after earning a B.S. in Accounting from Central Connecticut State University and an M.S. in Taxation from the University of New Haven. His early immersion into the world of finance provided him with the foundational skills that would later become pillars of a career marked by excellence and advancement. He soon earned his CPA credentials (exam passed, not licensed), affirming his deep understanding of accounting principles and setting the stage for a series of increasingly complex and influential roles.
From his earliest days at Stanley Black & Decker, where he contributed as a tax specialist, Siva was drawn to the intricacies of compliance and strategic tax planning. His career trajectory moved steadily upward through critical roles at major corporations such as General Electric and EMC Corporation. At GE, he demonstrated early leadership potential by managing diverse tax operations across several business units, focusing on tax planning and audit resolution. This period instilled in him a global mindset and sharpened his capabilities in managing multi-jurisdictional challenges.
A defining chapter unfolded when Siva assumed leadership of international tax functions at Campbell Soup Company. There, he directed cross-border tax initiatives, overseeing income tax accounting for a $8 billion CPG giant. His work encompassed international restructuring and compliance, further expanding his domain expertise and refining his skill in navigating complex regulatory landscapes. Siva’s contributions were not limited to internal efficiencies; he also played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s broader fiscal strategies with a keen eye toward sustainable financial health.
His appointment as Vice President of Tax at Office Depot marked a watershed moment in his career. Tasked with revamping a global tax function for a publicly traded $11 billion enterprise, Siva implemented strategic transformations that significantly reduced tax liabilities and operational inefficiencies. Under his guidance, the company executed an Intellectual Property migration strategy and secured advanced pricing agreements, leading to $8–$10 million in annual savings. Perhaps most notably, he was instrumental in the successful tax planning and due diligence behind the Office Depot–Office Max merger, showcasing his capacity to manage high-stakes, high-impact corporate transactions.
At First Data Corporation, Siva rose to the role of Senior Vice President of Global Tax, leading a team of 40 professionals across continents. There, he oversaw tax responsibilities during a critical IPO phase, designing communications, disclosures, and tax strategies that aligned with the company’s financial goals and regulatory obligations. His restructuring efforts not only mitigated a SOX-related material weakness but also optimized departmental efficiency, reducing costs while elevating output. His contributions underscored his dual strength in technical execution and leadership development.
In 2018, Siva launched V2S LLC, a consulting venture focused on helping companies restructure tax departments, implement SOX 404 controls, and prepare for IPOs and post-bankruptcy emergence. As a self-employed consultant, he provided strategic advisory services to C-suite leaders and boards, reaffirming his value as a trusted expert in navigating transitional phases with precision and insight. His approach combined technical mastery with a consultative lens that empowered organizations to build resilient, compliant financial frameworks.
Most recently, Siva has brought his expertise to the U.S. Department of the Treasury as a Senior Revenue Agent within the IRS. In this role, he focuses on large business and international audits, especially those dealing with the complexities of post-TCJA regulations. His work reflects a full-circle moment—applying private-sector acumen to public service and ensuring corporate accountability at the highest level. It also demonstrates his unwavering dedication to improving financial systems for the greater good.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Siva has consistently contributed to thought leadership within his field. He has spoken at national accounting forums and through the Tax Executives Institute (TEI), sharing insights on compliance frameworks, risk mitigation, and regulatory trends. His collaborative style and willingness to mentor upcoming professionals have solidified his reputation as a values-driven leader committed to continuous learning and knowledge dissemination.
Beyond the boardroom, Siva is passionate about golf and global travel—interests that reflect his appreciation for balance, exploration, and cultural diversity. Fluent in Tamil and experienced across Europe, Asia, Latin America, and Oceania, he brings a uniquely global perspective to every engagement. Whether addressing a board committee or guiding a corporation through a merger, Siva leads with authenticity, analytical rigor, and a profound respect for ethical stewardship.
Character:
Siva is guided by integrity and humility, consistently prioritizing ethical practices and long-term value creation over short-term gains. His career reflects a commitment to doing what is right, even in the face of complexity or resistance.
Knowledge:
With 35 years of financial leadership across global enterprises, Siva offers unmatched insight into tax strategy, compliance, and fiscal transformation. He remains deeply engaged in industry developments, continuously evolving his expertise to meet modern challenges.
Strategic:
Siva’s ability to lead organizations through IPOs, M&A transactions, and post-crisis recoveries speaks to his exceptional strategic acumen. He bridges operational detail with visionary planning, enabling companies to thrive in dynamic markets.
Communication:
Whether presenting to audit committees or mentoring future finance leaders, Siva communicates with clarity, conviction, and a collaborative spirit. His ability to translate complex financial issues into actionable insights sets him apart as a true executive partner.
