Finance Manager

Cruise Academy; Dubai; On-site; USD 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in maritime training is seeking a Finance Manager to oversee all financial operations onboard. This role is vital for ensuring accuracy, compliance, and efficiency in financial transactions while maintaining exceptional guest service standards. The Finance Manager will lead a team of finance specialists, collaborate with key departments, and drive financial integrity to support operational success. If you're passionate about maritime finance and enjoy working in a dynamic environment, this opportunity offers a unique chance to make a significant impact in the cruise industry.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in financial management within hospitality or cruise industry.
• Strong knowledge of financial audits and cash flow management.

Responsibilities

• Oversee financial operations onboard, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Manage guest and crew financial transactions, resolving discrepancies.

Skills

Financial Management

Accounting

Cash Flow Management

Financial Audits

Leadership

Problem-Solving

Communication

Education

Degree in Finance or Accounting

Tools

Property Management System (PMS)

Point of Sale (POS)

Job description

At Cruise Academy, we don’t just teach it - we’ve lived it. Founded in 2017 by seafarers for seafarers, we specialize in maritime training and shipboard recruitment for the global cruise industry.

We tell it like it is - the good, the bad, and the downright exhausting. No sugarcoating, no sales pitch - just real, honest insights from those who’ve been there. Because you deserve to know exactly what to expect before stepping onboard.

We are MLC Certified and proudly audited and approved by the UK Maritime & Coastguard Agency, ensuring the highest standards in training, recruitment, and compliance.

If you're serious about a career at sea, we’ll get you there - the right way.

Position Summary

The Finance Manager oversees all financial operations onboard, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and efficiency in financial transactions. This role is responsible for managing cash flow, auditing financial records, and ensuring adherence to company policies while maintaining the highest levels of guest service and operational excellence. The Finance Manager leads a team of finance specialists, collaborates with key onboard departments, and drives financial integrity to support the overall success of the operation.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the ship’s cash accounts, payment processing, and reconciliation of transactions, ensuring adherence to financial policies.
• Prepare bank deposits, process pay-ins and payouts, and audit all financial transactions for accuracy and compliance.
• Ensure strict adherence to internal financial controls and company policies regarding cash handling and financial reporting.

Guest & Crew Financial Transactions

• Manage guest and crew ATMs, ensuring credit card settlements and transactions are processed accurately each voyage.
• Investigate and resolve cash variances promptly, following standard financial procedures.
• Conduct daily audits of financial systems, including Property Management System (PMS) and Point of Sale (POS) records.
• Audit business partner charges, track excessive transactions or voids, and balance accounts related to group bookings, weddings, and celebration packages.
• Lead regular training sessions for the finance team on cash handling policies, financial systems, and compliance.
• Provide coaching, performance feedback, and career development opportunities to enhance team effectiveness.
• Ensure exceptional financial service standards by handling guest financial concerns with professionalism and accuracy.
• Take ownership of guest account discrepancies and financial inquiries, ensuring positive resolutions in line with company policies.

Cash Flow & Financial Monitoring

• Oversee daily balancing of cash and credit card transactions, ensuring financial integrity.
• Monitor prepaid gifts, services, house accounts, and reconcile cash flow documentation to maintain accurate records.
• Verify and audit exception reports, ensuring full compliance with financial policies.
• Maintain accurate tax applications, VAT reporting, and all required financial documentation.
• Work closely with onboard leadership, including the Guest Services Manager and shoreside financial teams, to optimize financial processes.
• Provide insights and feedback to enhance the onboard financial experience and improve overall operational efficiency.

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

Finance & Accounting Expertise

• Proven experience in financial management, accounting, or a similar leadership role within the hospitality or cruise industry.
• Strong knowledge of financial audits, cash flow management, inventory control, and financial software.

Leadership & Team Management

• Excellent ability to lead, train, and motivate a finance team to achieve operational efficiency.
• Strong communication skills to collaborate with senior management, external partners, and guests.

Operational & Problem-Solving Skills

• Detail-oriented, with a commitment to accuracy, compliance, and financial reporting standards.
• Strong problem-solving skills to address financial discrepancies and optimize financial workflows.

Contract

• 6: 2 Rotation (Rolling contracts of 6 months onboard the ship followed by 2 months of vacation).