Senior Accountant Arabic Speaker-Retail

Job Summary

The Senior Accountant is responsible for managing financial reporting, month-end closing, budgeting support, and compliance within the retail operations. The role ensures accuracy of financial records, monitors operational financial performance across retail stores, and maintains compliance with UAE tax regulations and IFRS standards. The position also supports management with financial analysis, cash flow monitoring, and internal control processes.

Key ResponsibilitiesFinancial Reporting & Month-End Closing

• Prepare and review monthly Profit & Loss statements, Balance Sheet, and financial analysis reports.
• Perform month-end closing activities ensuring timely and accurate financial records.
• Conduct variance analysis (Budget vs Actual) and present financial insights to management.
• Review accounting entries from Head Office, PRO, and retail store operations to ensure accuracy and compliance with accounting policies.

Budgeting & Financial Planning

• Assist in the preparation of annual budgets and financial forecasts.
• Monitor budget utilization and cost performance across retail operations.
• Provide financial projections and analytical support for management decision-making.

Cash Flow & Banking

• Prepare daily and weekly bank cash flow forecasts.
• Monitor bank balances and liquidity requirements to ensure operational funding.
• Coordinate with management on fund transfers, cash requirements, and banking activities.

Compliance & Regulatory

• Prepare and submit VAT returns in compliance with UAE tax regulations.
• Manage financial provisions including:
• Bad debt provisions
• Inventory provisions
• Ensure compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) including IFRS 16 lease accounting.

Lease & Contract Accounting

• Prepare and maintain IFRS 16 lease schedules and related accounting entries.
• Monitor lease liabilities, right-of-use assets, and lease payments in accordance with accounting standards.

Retail Operational Finance

• Review store-level financial transactions including sales, operational expenses, and cost allocations.
• Monitor inventory costs and cost of sales for retail brands.
• Process and review royalty invoices and credit notes related to franchise or brand agreements.
• Manage operational costs such as fuel expenses, storage invoices, and service-related expenses.

Payroll & Management Expenses

• Record and monitor payroll accruals and management remuneration.
• Ensure payroll accounting entries are accurate and recorded in a timely manner.

Internal Controls & Audit Support

• Conduct surprise cash counts and ensure proper cash handling procedures across retail stores.
• Support internal control processes within finance operations.
• Prepare documentation and schedules for internal and external audits.

Financial Transactions & Corporate Activities

• Handle dividend accounting and profit distribution entries.
• Manage partner/shareholder financial transactions where applicable.

Cross-Functional Coordination

• Collaborate with operations, HR, and store teams to ensure accurate financial reporting.
• Liaise with banks, auditors, and senior management on financial matters.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• Professional certification such as ACCA, CPA, CMA, or CA is preferred.

Experience

• 5–8 years of accounting experience, preferably within the retail or FMCG industry.
• Experience handling multi-store retail financial operations is an advantage.

Key Skills

• Strong knowledge of IFRS and UAE VAT regulations
• Retail finance and inventory accounting expertise
• Financial analysis and budgeting skills
• Advanced proficiency in ERP systems and Microsoft Excel
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and reporting skills

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From AED8,500.00 per month

Application Question(s):

• Do you have experience preparing monthly financial statements (P&L and Balance Sheet)?
• What ERP systems have you worked with (SAP, Oracle, Dynamics, Tally, etc.)?

Work Location: In person