Director of Finance

Sommet Education; United Arab Emirates; On-site; AED 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in hospitality education is seeking a Director of Finance to lead financial operations in Abu Dhabi. This pivotal role involves overseeing financial planning, reporting, and budgeting while collaborating with school leadership and the broader finance team. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in financial management, a strong accounting background, and the ability to thrive in an international environment. Join a forward-thinking institution that values innovation and commitment to excellence, and contribute to shaping the future of hospitality education.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in financial planning and analysis with a solid accounting background.
• Experience in international environments and managerial roles is essential.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all financial affairs, including reporting, budgeting, and planning.
• Supervise student accounting, billing, and collections processes.

Skills

Financial Planning

Budgeting

Cost Analysis

Accounting

Analytical Skills

Communication Skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Economics

Bachelor's degree in Finance

Bachelor's degree in Accounting

Tools

Excel

PowerPoint

Job description

Director of Finance

Position: Permanent contract / Location: Abu Dhabi

Les Roches Global Hospitality Education, ranked in the top 3 for Employer Reputation of Hospitality & Leisure Management graduates by QS World University Ranking, is part of the Sommet Education Group. Founded in 1954, Les Roches is a Swiss-model private institution offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in hospitality, tourism, and event management. With campuses in Crans-Montana (Switzerland), Marbella (Spain), and Abu Dhabi (UAE), we prepare entrepreneurial and innovative graduates.

Our values include Development, Distinctiveness, Joint Commitment, Openness, and Sense of Service.

Role Overview

The Director of Finance oversees all financial affairs at Les Roches Abu Dhabi and its partnerships, including:

• Statutory and management reporting
• Internal controls, budgeting, and business planning
• Financial planning and analysis
• Support for school budget owners
• Cost analysis and expense alignment recommendations
• Student accounting (billing and collections)
• Financial systems implementation and configuration
• Collaboration with the CFO of Sommet

Key Responsibilities

Financial Planning and Analysis & School Support

• Develop and execute financial development plans with school leadership
• Maintain and update enrollment and revenue models
• Forecast and report enrollment and actuals
• Coordinate with the Sommet finance team for compliance and reporting
• Analyze variances and produce financial reports
• Support capital requests and approvals
• Assist in budgeting, forecasting, and long-range planning
• Implement and maintain internal controls
• Manage department budgets and payroll

Student Accounting (Billing & Collection)

• Supervise billing, scholarships, collections, and refunds
• Report on scholarships and discounts with recommendations
• Maintain relationships with parents and sponsors regarding financial matters
• Coordinate with Student Services for accurate billing information
• Prepare reports on collection status and aging
• Manage fee registration processes and SIS system functionalities

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in economics, finance, or accounting
• At least 10 years in financial planning, analysis, or operations
• Solid accounting background
• Experience in international environments and managerial roles

Knowledge & Skills

• Understanding of the education sector is a plus
• Fluent in English
• Strong financial, accounting, and analytical skills
• Knowledge of IFRS standards
• Effective communication and organizational skills
• Proficiency in Excel and PowerPoint
• Ability to build relationships and work ethically

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