Finance Manager

American University; Dubai; On-site; AED 350,000 - 450,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Dubai is seeking a Finance Manager to oversee financial operations and ensure fiscal health. The ideal candidate has a Master’s degree, CPA/CFA certification, and at least 10 years of experience, with 5 in a leadership role. Responsibilities include developing financial strategies, managing budgets, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Strong proficiency in financial software and bilingual (English/Arabic) skills are essential. This role offers a competitive salary and a dynamic work environment.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in financial management with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Experience in the higher education sector preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement financial strategies aligned with the university’s mission.
• Provide leadership in financial planning and investment management.
• Advise the executive team on financial performance and risks.
• Ensure compliance with financial, legal, and regulatory standards.

Skills

Bilingual (English and Arabic)

Leadership

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Financial regulations knowledge

Education

Master’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field

CPA, CFA, or equivalent professional certification

Tools

Financial software

Enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems

Job description

Overview

The American University in the Emirates is looking for a Finance Manager who will serve as the strategic leader overseeing all financial operations of the university. This role ensures the university's fiscal health by developing financial strategies, managing budgets, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. The Finance Manager will work closely with senior leadership to support the university's mission and long‑term goals.

Qualifications & Experience

• Master’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field.
• CPA, CFA, or equivalent professional certification is highly preferred.
• Must be bilingual (speaks English and Arabic fluently)
• Preferably has proven experience in higher education.

Skills / Training / Knowledge

• Strong knowledge of financial regulations, accounting principles, and reporting standards.
• Exceptional analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making skills.
• Excellent leadership and team‑management abilities.
• Proficiency in financial software and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to present complex financial information clearly.

Experience

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive financial management experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Experience in the higher education sector or a large, complex organization is an advantage.

Job Description

• Develop and implement financial strategies aligned with the university’s mission and strategic goals.
• Provide leadership in financial planning, forecasting, and investment management.
• Advise the executive team on financial performance, risks, and opportunities.
• Oversee the preparation and management of the annual operating and capital budgets.
• Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting, including monthly, quarterly, and annual reports.
• Monitor financial performance and provide actionable insights to senior leadership.
• Ensure compliance with all financial, legal, and regulatory standards.
• Implement internal controls to safeguard university assets and minimize financial risks.
• Liaise with external auditors, ensuring successful audits and resolving any findings.
• Supervise and develop the finance team, fostering a culture of accountability and excellence.
• Oversee accounts payable/receivable, payroll, and procurement processes.
• Optimize financial systems and processes to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
• Collaborate with academic and administrative departments to align financial planning with institutional priorities.
• Build and maintain relationships with external stakeholders, including donors, government agencies, and financial institutions.

About American University in the Emirates (AUE)

The American University in the Emirates (AUE) invites applications from well‑qualified candidates for a range of faculty and administrative positions. AUE is located in Dubai International Academic City. AUE is not just a place of learning but a hub of innovation and growth, where your expertise and aspirations find a welcoming environment.

At AUE, we believe "Nothing is Impossible is the Pathway to Success". AUE comprises seven dynamic colleges: College of Law, College of Education, College of Design, College of Business Administration, College of Media and Mass Communication, College of Engineering and Technology, and College of Security and Strategic Studies. Each college boasts unique strengths and prestigious accreditations, reflecting our commitment to providing a world‑class education.

The American University in the Emirates is accredited by SACSCOC (the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges) to award baccalaureate and master’s degrees. Degree‑granting institutions also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels.

The American University in the Emirates is officially licensed to operate as a higher education institution and all its programs are accredited by CAA (the Commission for Academic Accreditation), Ministry of Education, United Arab Emirates.

The College of Business Administration is a proud member of AACSB (The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business), and its degree programs are accredited by AACSB as of 2022. The Bachelor of Computer Science in the College of Engineering and Technology is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET. The National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) has granted the Bachelor of Science in Fashion Design, Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design, Bachelor of Science in Interior Design, and Bachelor of Science in Animation in the College of Design, the designation of Substantial Equivalency with accredited programs in the United States.