Chief Accountant

Chief Accountant

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced Chief Accountant to lead and oversee the organization’s accounting operations and ensure the accuracy, integrity, and timely reporting of financial information. The role will be responsible for managing the accounting team, maintaining effective financial controls, ensuring compliance with applicable accounting standards and regulatory requirements, and supporting management with meaningful financial analysis.

The successful candidate will play a key role in financial reporting, month-end and year-end closing, audit coordination, budgeting, forecasting, and continuous improvement of accounting processes and controls.

Key Responsibilities

Accounting Operations & Financial Control

• Lead and manage the day-to-day activities of the accounting department.
• Ensure financial transactions are accurately recorded and maintained in accordance with applicable accounting standards, company policies, and regulatory requirements.
• Establish, review, and improve accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls.
• Ensure appropriate financial controls are in place to protect company assets and reduce financial and operational risks.
• Monitor accounting processes and identify opportunities to improve efficiency, accuracy, and compliance.

Financial Reporting & Analysis

• Prepare, review, and analyze periodic financial reports and statements, including balance sheets, profit and loss statements, and cash flow reports.
• Ensure financial information is complete, accurate, and submitted within established reporting deadlines.
• Provide financial analysis, including variance analysis, trend analysis, and performance indicators, to support management decision-making.
• Monitor financial performance and identify potential risks, cost-saving opportunities, revenue improvement areas, and operational efficiencies.
• Provide financial insights and recommendations to senior management and relevant stakeholders.

Month-End & Year-End Closing

• Manage and coordinate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial closing activities.
• Review account reconciliations, accruals, provisions, adjustments, and other closing entries to ensure accuracy and completeness.
• Ensure financial records are properly maintained and reconciled.
• Coordinate with relevant departments to obtain the information required for timely financial reporting.

Team Leadership & Development

• Supervise, guide, and support accounting staff to ensure efficient and accurate completion of assigned responsibilities.
• Participate in the recruitment, training, development, and performance evaluation of accounting team members.
• Promote a professional, collaborative, and high-performing working environment.
• Provide coaching and technical guidance to strengthen the knowledge and capabilities of the accounting team.
• Allocate responsibilities and monitor workloads to ensure deadlines and departmental objectives are achieved.

Audit, Tax & Regulatory Compliance

• Coordinate with external auditors and support the timely completion of financial audits and reviews.
• Prepare and provide required financial records, schedules, and supporting documentation for audit purposes.
• Liaise with tax authorities, regulatory bodies, and other external stakeholders when required.
• Monitor changes in accounting standards, financial regulations, and reporting requirements.
• Ensure accounting practices remain compliant with relevant laws, regulations, and professional standards.

Stakeholder Management & Business Support

• Work closely with department heads, business leaders, and other internal stakeholders to provide financial guidance and support.
• Assist management with budgeting, forecasting, financial planning, and performance monitoring activities.
• Support strategic and operational decision-making by providing accurate financial information and analysis.
• Maintain effective communication with internal and external stakeholders on accounting and financial matters.

Systems, Process Improvement & Compliance

• Utilize accounting software and ERP systems to manage financial transactions, maintain records, and generate financial reports.
• Support improvements in financial systems, reporting processes, and accounting workflows.
• Promote the effective use of technology and automation to enhance accounting efficiency and accuracy.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, internal controls, and applicable financial procedures.
• Support the implementation of Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) initiatives and Integrated Management System (IMS) requirements.
• Participate in relevant safety awareness activities and contribute to incident reporting and resolution when required.

Candidate Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Commerce, or a related discipline.
• Professional accounting qualifications such as CPA, ACCA, CMA, CA, or equivalent will be an advantage.
• Minimum 8 years of overall professional experience, including at least 5 years of relevant accounting or financial management experience.
• Previous GCC experience of approximately 2 years will be an advantage.
• Strong knowledge of accounting principles, financial reporting standards, and regulatory compliance requirements.
• Proven experience in preparing and reviewing financial statements and managing month-end and year-end closing processes.
• Experience in budgeting, forecasting, financial analysis, and variance reporting.
• Strong leadership and people management skills with the ability to supervise and develop an accounting team.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities with strong attention to detail.
• Proficiency in accounting software and ERP systems, preferably SAP.
• Strong Microsoft Excel and financial reporting skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple priorities, and meet strict reporting deadlines.