Financial Accountant – Dubai Finance Function Lead

About the role

Our client, a century‑old international organisation, is establishing a new finance function in Dubai as part of its relocation of European operations. This standalone Financial Accountant role will lead the local finance set‑up, providing critical reporting, analysis and commercial insight for a fast‑growing business.

Key responsibilities

• Manage day‑to‑day accounting activities for the Dubai entity, including journal entries, accruals, pre‑payments and reconciliations.
• Lead month‑end and year‑end closing processes, prepare statutory financial statements and balance‑sheet reconciliations.
• Produce management reports, variance analysis and profitability insights.
• Support budgeting, forecasting and financial planning, developing models to aid decision‑making.
• Monitor cash flow, working capital, receivables and payables.
• Establish local finance policies, procedures and internal controls.
• Coordinate the transition of finance operations from Europe, liaising with headquarters, auditors, tax advisers and banks.
• Ensure compliance with local statutory, tax, audit and regulatory requirements.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance or related field.
• Professional qualification (ACCA, ACA, CPA, CMA or CIMA) strongly preferred.
• Proven experience in financial accounting, management reporting and analysis, preferably in a small or standalone finance team.
• Strong knowledge of IFRS and financial reporting standards.

Required skills

• Advanced Microsoft Excel and financial modelling.
• Experience with ERP and financial accounting systems.
• Understanding of cash‑flow, working‑capital and internal controls.
• Ability to design and implement finance processes independently.