Chief Accounting Officer

Peergrowth; Dubai; On-site; AED 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading pharmaceutical manufacturer based in Dubai is seeking a highly skilled Chief Accountant to manage all accounting functions. The ideal applicant will have minimum 10 years of accounting experience, including leadership in the pharmaceutical industry. Responsibilities include managing financial reports, auditing, and collaborating with various departments. This role offers the chance to lead a team and influence strategic financial decisions.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive accounting experience.
• 5+ years in a leadership role in the pharmaceutical or manufacturing industry.
• Strong understanding of cost accounting and inventory control.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day accounting operations.
• Ensure timely and accurate month-end and year-end reporting.
• Prepare financial statements in compliance with IFRS or local GAAP.

Skills

Financial management

Regulatory compliance

Cost accounting

Leadership

Communication

Analytical skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field

CPA, CA, CMA or equivalent qualification

Tools

ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle)

Job description

We are seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Chief Accountant to oversee the entire accounting function of our pharmaceutical manufacturing operations. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in financial management, regulatory compliance, and cost accounting specific to the manufacturing sector. This role requires a strong leader capable of guiding a team, streamlining financial processes, and supporting strategic business decisions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee day-to-day accounting operations including general ledger, accounts payable/receivable, payroll, inventory, and fixed assets.
• Ensure timely and accurate month-end and year-end financial closing and reporting.
• Prepare financial statements in compliance with IFRS or local GAAP standards.
• Monitor and analyze manufacturing costs, variances, and profitability to support pricing and budgeting strategies.
• Lead annual budgeting and quarterly forecasting processes in collaboration with departmental heads.
• Manage statutory audits, internal audits, and ensure compliance with tax regulations and government reporting requirements.
• Maintain strong internal controls and financial discipline across the organization.
• Supervise and mentor a team of junior accountants, providing training and performance evaluations.
• Coordinate with procurement, production, and quality teams to align financial planning with operational needs.
• Liaise with external stakeholders such as auditors, banks, and regulatory authorities.
• Contribute to financial risk assessment, investment analysis, and strategic planning.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• CPA, CA, CMA or equivalent professional qualification is highly desirable.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive accounting experience, including 5+ years in a leadership role.
• Experience in the pharmaceutical or manufacturing industry is mandatory.
• Strong understanding of cost accounting, inventory control, and production finance.
• In-depth knowledge of ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, or similar).
• High level of integrity and dependability with a strong sense of urgency and results-orientation.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and analytical skills.