Lead Accountant

The Lead Accountant will oversee and lead the financial management of business operations, ensuring accurate reporting, compliance, and process efficiency. This role requires strong analytical and accounting skills to drive robust financial performance, with an emphasis on compliance with IFRS and UAE tax regulations. Experience in logistics, shipping, or supply chain sectors will be an advantage.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Accounting, Reporting & Compliance

• Manage daily accounting operations, including general ledger maintenance, journal entries, accruals, and reconciliations.

• Ensure compliance with IFRS, UAE tax regulations, and company policies.

• Oversee monthly, quarterly, and annual financial closings and prepare financial statements.

• Develop and maintain internal controls to ensure accuracy and transparency.

• Coordinate with auditors, regulators, and tax authorities as required.

• Review and finalize statutory filings for relevant entities.

Financial Analysis & Ratio Analysis

• Conduct financial ratio analysis (profitability, liquidity, efficiency, leverage, etc.) to assess performance.

• Prepare management reports with actionable insights to support decision-making.

• Perform profitability analysis by service line, customer, and region.

• Support pricing and cost optimization initiatives.

Treasury & Cash Flow Management

• Monitor and manage cash flows across multiple locations and entities.

• Forecast cash requirements and ensure liquidity.

• Optimize working capital by managing credit terms with customers and suppliers.

• Negotiate favourable terms with banks and financial institutions.

Process Improvement & Systems

• Streamline accounting processes for greater efficiency.

• Support ERP and financial system enhancements (SAP B1 or equivalent).

• Ensure timely and compliant financial reporting.

• Mentor and train junior finance team members on policies and practices.

Requirements

Qualifications:

• 68 years of finance/accounting experience, with at least 23 years in a supervisory role.

• CA Inter / MBA (Finance) / M.Com or equivalent qualification.

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong knowledge of IFRS and UAE accounting/tax regulations.

• Expertise in financial ratio analysis and analytical reporting.

• Hands-on experience with ERP systems (preferably SAP B1).

• Excellent attention to detail and problem-solving skills.

• Strong communication, negotiation, and leadership skills.

• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.