Job Description
Function / Position: Head of Accounts
Reporting Line: Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Functional Team Size: 6 Direct Reports
Role Purpose
The Head of Accounting leads end-to-end accounting and financial operations, ensuring the highest standards of accuracy, transparency, and regulatory compliance. This role oversees core accounting functions including Accounts Receivable, Accounts Payable, General Ledger, and month-end closures, while supporting cost control, inventory valuation, and export-related financial documentation.
The ideal candidate will be a seasoned finance professional with experience operating in complex, multinational environments. Background within the Oil & Gas sector (downstream experience preferred) or the broader Energy industry is highly desirable. Candidates with audit firm experience and a strong understanding of IFRS and manufacturing operations will be considered a strong value add.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Operations Management
- Lead and manage day-to-day accounting operations to ensure accurate, timely, and compliant financial reporting.
- Implement and maintain strong internal controls and accounting standards in line with IFRS and local GAAP.
- Ensure effective functioning of financial systems supporting sales, production, procurement, and logistics.
- Manage bank reconciliations and coordinate with treasury to monitor cash flow, maintain liquidity, and optimize working capital.
Accounts Receivable (AR) Management
- Oversee customer billing, collections, and receipt postings across export markets.
- Ensure accuracy of export sales invoices, certificates of origin, and customs-related financial documentation.
- Analyze AR aging reports, track overdue balances, and lead collection efforts to meet targeted DSO levels.
- Collaborate with Export Sales and Logistics teams to resolve billing or documentation discrepancies.
Accounts Payable (AP) Management
- Manage the full AP cycle, including invoice verification, approvals, and timely payments.
- Ensure compliance of vendor transactions (local and international) with procurement, tax, and customs policies.
- Review supplier contracts and payment terms to support cash flow efficiency.
- Maintain accurate accounting of imports, freight, and customs duties related to raw materials and packaging.
Monthly, Quarterly & Year-End Financial Closing
- Lead monthly, quarterly, and year-end closing activities, ensuring timely reconciliation and accurate accruals.
- Prepare and review management reports including P&L, balance sheet, variance analysis, and cost reports.
- Ensure accurate recording of intercompany transactions, forex adjustments, and provisions.
- Support consolidation and group reporting in line with corporate timelines.
Cost Accounting & Inventory Control
- Oversee product costing, BOM validation, and variance analysis for manufacturing operations.
- Review inventory valuation and ensure accurate accounting of raw materials, WIP, and finished goods.
- Partner with Supply Chain and Operations teams to monitor cost efficiency, yield, and wastage.
Audit, Compliance & Governance
- Liaise with internal and external auditors to ensure audit readiness and clean audit outcomes.
- Ensure timely compliance with tax filings, VAT returns, customs regulations, and statutory reporting.
- Maintain and enhance internal financial policies aligned with corporate governance standards.
Team Leadership & Development
- Lead, mentor, and develop the accounting team to drive high performance and accuracy.
- Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and cross-functional collaboration.
- Drive process automation and digitization to improve efficiency and reporting quality.
Scope of Action
- Geographical: UAE – Responsible for accounting, financial reporting, and treasury functions across the business and its allied entities.
- Technical: Strategic accounting leadership, financial analysis, compliance, systems development, and audit management.
- Temporal: End-to-end financial management from planning and execution to reporting and team supervision.
Key Deliverables
- Accurate monthly financial closures completed within corporate deadlines.
- Improved AR performance with DSO targets achieved.
- Timely AP processing within agreed vendor credit terms.