Head of Finance

The Head of Finance will lead the finance function of UAE-regulated payments entity. This is a hands-on and strategic role with approximately 70% focus on financial control, reporting, and compliance, and 30% focus on investment, fundraising, and investor readiness.

Responsibilities

Financial Control, Regulatory Reporting & Governance (70%)

• Oversee and execute financial operations of the UAE-regulated entity, including month-end close, reconciliations, and statutory accounts.
• Ensure full compliance with CBUAE, IFRS, VAT, ESR, AML, and audit requirements, acting as the primary finance contact with regulators.
• Prepare accurate and timely management reports, financial statements, and board packs with detailed commentary.
• Manage annual statutory audits and regulatory reviews, ensuring timely submissions and minimal findings.
• Implement and monitor robust internal controls (segregation of duties, approvals, reconciliations).
• Manage treasury and liquidity, including cash flow forecasting, intercompany flows, and funding requirements.
• Drive ERP/NetSuite adoption for automation, compliance, and accurate reporting.
• Build and mentor a local finance team while remaining actively involved in detailed execution.

Investment & Fundraising (30%)

• Support the Global CFO on equity and debt fundraising initiatives.
• Prepare financial models, valuation analyses, pitch decks, and due diligence packs.
• Engage with investors, banks, and advisors, representing the UAE entity during fundraising.
• Contribute to capital allocation strategy and investment validation for new initiatives.
• Strengthen investor relations through transparent reporting and communication.

Requirements

• Chartered Accountant (CA/ACCA/CPA) or MBA Finance.
• 12–15 years of finance experience, starting in Big 4 (audit/advisory) with subsequent fintech/payments exposure.
• Strong knowledge of UAE regulatory frameworks (CBUAE, IFRS, VAT, ESR).
• Proven hands-on experience in fundraising, investor relations, or M&A.
• Deep expertise in financial reporting, controls, and compliance.
• ERP/NetSuite experience strongly preferred.
• Ability to operate effectively at both detailed execution and strategic levels.
• Experience working in Start Up Environment Preferred