Financial Controller

About the role

The Financial Controller will partner with the Board and senior management to drive financial performance across the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar and future markets. This leadership position oversees the full accounting function, ensures statutory compliance, and provides actionable insights to support short‑ and long‑term strategy.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the end‑to‑end accounting process, including GL, AP, AR, fixed assets, inventory, payroll, inter‑company and banking.
• Own the annual budgeting, forecasting and financial planning cycle for sales, margin, OPEX, CAPEX and working capital.
• Analyse financial results, gross margin, operating costs and cash conversion; present trend reports to senior leadership and the Board.
• Coach and develop the finance team, fostering a culture of accuracy and continuous improvement.
• Manage cash‑flow, bank reconciliations and working‑capital discipline.
• Ensure full statutory compliance, including VAT, and maintain robust internal controls.
• Develop inventory reporting mechanisms and monitor ageing stock, best sellers and slow movers.
• Maintain relationships with external auditors, tax advisors, banks and other financial stakeholders.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance or Accounting; CA or equivalent qualification preferred.
• 8‑12 years of progressive finance/accounting experience, with at least 4‑5 years in a Finance Controller role.
• Strong analytical and financial modelling abilities, turning data into business insights.
• Proven experience in premium retail or FMCG environments.
• Deep understanding of retail P&L, inventory management, gross margin, store economics and working capital.

Required skills

• ERP systems
• Advanced Excel
• Financial reporting tools
• Financial modelling