CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER (UAE NATIONALS ONLY)May 5, 2025

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

Job summary

A higher education institution in Sharjah is seeking a Chief Financial Officer to lead financial strategy and oversee budgeting processes. The role requires a bachelor's degree in finance, substantial experience in finance management, and knowledge of UAE regulations. Successful candidates will ensure financial health and regulatory compliance while leading finance operations. An attractive benefits package is offered, including health insurance and transportation allowance.

Benefits

Health insurance

Housing allowance

Transportation allowance

Children’s school fee support

Qualifications

• Minimum of 9 years' experience in finance management.
• 4+ years in a leadership role within education.
• Experience in UAE's financial practices and regulations.

Responsibilities

• Lead annual budgeting process and forecasting.
• Establish Finance and Procurement divisions.
• Communicate with government and auditors.

Skills

Financial planning

Leadership

Analytical skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Finance or Accounting

Master’s degree or professional qualifications (CPA, ACCA, CMA)

Tools

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

Job description

Job Title: Chief Financial Officer (UAE Nationals Only)

Reporting Relationship: Director of Administration & Operations

Location: Global Studies University, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

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

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, strategy goals, and regulatory frameworks. The position will also be responsible for all dealings with the Government and the University’s Board of Trustees for all 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 the Government Finance Department to ensure compliance with their requirements and provisions 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 organization
• 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
  

Academic Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s degree in Finance or Accounting
• Master’s degree or professional qualifications in accounting (CPA, ACCA or CMA)
  

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

• A cover letter outlining your suitability for the role
• A detailed CV/resumé
• 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 additional compensation are commensurate with degree and experience. The benefits package includes health insurance, housing and transportation allowances, and children’s school fee support, subject to coordination of benefits.
• Global Studies University 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.
• We anticipate a high number of applications and will do our best to respond to any queries. Please note that only shortlisted applicants will be contacted in the first instance.