Financial Controller

As a Financial Controller To be responsible for ensuring the absolute integrity, accuracy, and timeliness of the University’s financial operations. Reporting directly to the Director of Finance, the role provides strategic oversight across all core finance functions, including Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Treasury, General Ledger, Tax, and Financial Planning and Analysis.

• Identify process gaps and inefficiencies across sections, coordinating corrective actions with Heads of Sections to ensure smooth interdepartmental workflows with IT, Procurement, and FMPD.
• Support the Director of Finance in achieving departmental KPIs by gathering data, preparing progress reports, and implementing approved action plans.

• Assist in developing and updating fiscal management policies and procedures, ensuring full alignment with IFRS, UAE regulations, and industry best practices.
• Conduct periodic awareness and training sessions for staff to ensure consistent application of UoS financial policies and procedures.

• Monitor monthly and annual closing activities, leading the preparation of the trial balance, year-end schedules, and annual financial statements.
• Ensure full compliance with UAE Tax laws (VAT and Corporate Tax) by reviewing filings, reconciliations, and supporting documentation.

• Review and approve payment batches, AP invoices, and authorize high-value journal vouchers exceeding AED 1 million.
• Engage with internal profit-generating units (e.g., Medical Clinics, Research Centers) to review their revenue processes and internal controls.

• Drive digital transformation by supporting ERP (Oracle Fusion) enhancements and automation initiatives in collaboration with IT and external consultants.
• Provide consultative assistance to Deans, Directors, and other university entities regarding the interpretation of budget information and financial policies.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills and the ability to prepare professional documents, in both Arabic and English.
• Excellent working knowledge of personal computer applications with an emphasis on MS Office applications such as Excel, Word, and Teams.
• Hands‑on experience with Oracle Fusion ERP and advanced data visualization tools like Power BI.
• Ability to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of financial operations across GL, Fixed Assets, and Tax.
• Expert‑level understanding of UAE financial laws and international accounting standards to mitigate institutional risk.
• Proficiency in high‑level financial modelling, budget monitoring, and performance analysis.
• Capability to lead diverse finance sections and coordinate with external units like IT, Procurement, and Academic Departments.
• High attention to detail in reviewing high‑value transactions and complex reconciliations.
• Proactive identification of gaps in internal controls and the ability to implement corrective governance actions.
• Minimum bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a relevant discipline.
• A professional qualification as a chartered accountant or qualified member of an accountancy body (e.g. CPA, CMA, ACCA, CIMA, ICAS, etc.).
• An MBA or a master’s degree in Finance will add an advantage.
• 10-12 years of UAE experience in a similar role, preferably in higher education institutions.