Chief Financial Officer

Global Studies University; Sharjah; On-site; AED 300,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

Global Studies University in Sharjah, UAE is seeking a Chief Financial Officer to lead finance and procurement operations. This pivotal role involves managing budgets, establishing policies, and ensuring compliance, while collaborating with stakeholders to maintain financial health. Ideal candidates will possess substantial experience in academic contexts and strong leadership abilities.

Benefits

Health Insurance

Housing

Transportation Allowance

Children’s School Fees Allowance

Qualifications

• Minimum 9 years’ experience as a finance manager.
• 4 years in a leadership role within a university or similar organization.
• Experience working in the UAE regulatory environment is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead annual budgeting process, including forecasting and planning.
• Establish finance and procurement divisions and ensure compliance.
• Provide financial reports and guidance on long-term financial planning.

Skills

Financial Acumen

Leadership

Analytical Skills

Communication

Interpersonal Skills

Education

Minimum 9 years’ experience in finance management

Experience in a higher education institution

Tools

ERP Systems

Job description

Reporting Relationship : Director of Administration and Operations

Expected Starting Date : For immediate hire

Job Status : Full time

Application Deadline : The position is open until filled

About Us

Located in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, and following the successful launch of The Africa Institute in 2018, Global Studies University was established in 2023 as a non-profit institution for higher education by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al-Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. Read more .

Position Summary

The Global Studies University, Sharjah, UAE, is seeking an experienced and strategic Chief Financial Officer to lead and oversee the Finance and Procurement division. This senior leadership role will be responsible for developing and managing the departmental budget, establishing and operationalizing the Finance and Procurement divisions, and ensuring compliant and effective management of funds from grants, donations, and sponsorships. The role will also be responsible for setting up the different positions with the Finance Unit.

The ideal candidate will combine financial acumen with strong leadership and planning skills and possess a thorough understanding of the budgeting, accounting and procurement functions within academic institutions. The ideal candidate will play a critical role in guiding the organization’s financial health, stability and sustainability, while aligning operations with institutional and strategic goals as well regulatory frameworks. The position will also be responsible for all dealings with the Government and the University’s Board of Trustees for all the finance related matters.

Key Responsibilities

• Budgeting and Financial Planning :

Lead the annual budgeting process, including forecasting, planning, and reporting

Monitor and control departmental expenditures in alignment with institutional and project budgets

Provide regular financial reports to senior leadership and stakeholders

Advise on long-term financial planning and sustainability

Finance and Procurement Management :

Establish and operationalize the Finance and Procurement divisions within the organization

Develop finance and procurement policies, procedures, and best practices in line with university and national and international regulations and accounting policies

Oversee finance and procurement activities to ensure compliance with regulations, transparency, efficiency, and value for money

Ensure vendor compliance and contract management standards are met

Communication with Government, Auditors and Senior Management :

Communication with Government Finance Department to ensure compliance with their requirements and provision of any information or reports required

Work with internal, external and government auditors on annual reports or special audit assignments

Prepare financial reports and financial presentations for senior management and Board of Trustees

Provide regular reports to management and department heads related to budgets and the financial health of the organisation

Leadership and Strategic Oversight :

Provide leadership and direction to the finance and procurement teams

Ensure compliance with relevant financial regulations, audit standards, and institutional policies

Collaborate with other units, university leadership, and external partners

Implement financial systems, technologies, and process improvements

Professional Experience

Minimum of 9 years’ experience as a finance manager of a finance department with at least 4 years in a leadership role within a university, higher education institution, or similar organization

Experience working in the UAE’s regulatory environment and financial practices is preferred

Proven experience in developing and managing budgets, financial reporting, and compliance in an academic or large organizational setting

Demonstrated experience in budgeting, financial planning, and procurement management

Strong knowledge of financial regulations, grant compliance, and procurement practices.

Proven leadership and team management abilities

Excellent analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills

Familiarity with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, or similar) and financial reporting tools

Competencies and Skills

Excellent knowledge of English and Arabic

Experience in financial matters in educational institutions

Experience working with international donors or government-funded projects

Understanding of academic or non-profit funding environments

High level of integrity and professionalism

Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships at all levels of the organization

Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and dynamic environment

Strategic thinker with a proactive and solutions-oriented approach

How to Apply

To apply, please submit the following documents :

Cover letter outlining your suitability for the role

Contact information for three professional references

Send your application via email to [e-mail] and include the position title in the subject line.

Salary and further compensation commensurate with degree and experience. Benefits package includes health insurance, housing, and transportation, children’s school fees allowances subject to coordination of benefits.

The Africa Institute (GSU) is committed to fair employment practices and encourages women and men of all national, ethnic, and religious backgrounds to apply and join our expanding team. UAE nationals are encouraged to apply.

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