Chief Accountant

Company Description

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Chief Accountant is responsible for leading the accounting operations of the company, ensuring accurate financial reporting, statutory compliance, and effective internal controls. This role oversees the full spectrum of accounting functions, including general ledger management, accounts receivable/payable, cost accounting, tax compliance, audit coordination, and month-end closing activities. The Chief Accountant plays a critical role in supporting management with timely, accurate financial data to enable strategic decision-making.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Accounting & Reporting

• Oversee all accounting activities including GL, AP, AR, bank reconciliation, and fixed assets.
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in compliance with IFRS.
• Ensure timely month-end and year-end closing activities.
• Review and approve journal entries, account reconciliations, and supporting schedules.
• Maintain accuracy and integrity of financial data across ERP systems.

Budgeting & Cost Control

• Assist in preparation of annual budgets, forecasts, and variance analysis.
• Monitor expenses, enforce cost controls, and provide insights to management.
• Support operational departments with cost allocation and financial analysis.

Compliance & Audit

• Ensure compliance with UAE VAT laws, corporate tax regulations, and financial policies.
• Liaise with external auditors, internal auditors, and regulatory authorities.
• Prepare audit schedules and resolve audit queries promptly.

Cash Flow Management

• Monitor daily cash flow, banking transactions, and working capital.
• Coordinate with banks for LC, LG, TR facilities.
• Support treasury functions and optimize cash utilization.

Internal Controls & Process Improvements

• Develop, implement, and monitor internal financial controls.
• Improve accounting processes to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
• Ensure compliance with company policies and JAFZA/Free Zone rules.

Team Leadership

• Supervise, mentor, and develop the accounting team.
• Allocate tasks, conduct performance reviews, and ensure skill development.
• Foster a culture of accuracy, responsibility, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications & Skills

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting / Finance.
• Professional certification preferred: CPA, ACCA, CMA.

Experience

• 7–12 years of progressive accounting experience.
• Minimum 3–5 years in a supervisory or senior accounting role.
• Experience in trading, manufacturing, or petrochemical industry (preferred).
• Experience with UAE VAT, Corporate Tax, and Free Zone compliance is mandatory.

Technical Skills

• Strong knowledge of IFRS.
• Proficiency in ERP systems (SAP/Oracle/Tally/Zoho or similar).
• Advanced MS Excel skills (pivot tables, VLOOKUP, financial modelling).

Behavioral Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Excellent communication and leadership ability.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines.
• Strong integrity and confidentiality.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Accuracy and timeliness of monthly closing.
• Compliance with tax and audit requirements.
• Reduction in outstanding payables/receivables.
• Improvement of internal controls and process gaps.
• Team performance and development.

Location: Dubai, UAE

Employment Type: Full-Time

Department: Finance & Accounts

Reports To: CFO / Finance Manager

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Application Deadline: 26/11/2025
Expected Start Date: 15/12/2025