Finance Manager UAE

About Uplift

Uplift is a dynamic agency specializing in global talent search, covering EMEA, LATAM, USA, and APAC. With successful placements in 52 countries, we combine speed and cutting-edge technology to source top executive and mid-senior talent across various functions. Our innovative approach integrates global networks, AI, and advanced recruitment tools. Beyond recruitment, we engage with our audience through our podcast, newsletter, and webinars, ensuring we stay at the forefront of talent acquisition and global HR trends.

About Our Client

Backed by a strong market presence, our client is committed to strategic expansion, bringing exciting opportunities in the F&B retail space.

Position Overview

The finance manager position will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of financial accounting, control, and reporting, as well as ensuring accuracy, compliance, and efficiency in the company's financial operations for UAE and Group consolidation.

This position requires strong leadership skills, communication skills, attention to detail, and a comprehensive understanding of accounting principles ideally to the food and beverage sector. Someone who is unafraid to challenge the status quo and challenge where necessary.

Responsibilities

Financial Reporting:

• Prepare and present timely and accurate financial statements and reports post month end close including analysis where relevant against budget/forecasts.
• Review Balance sheet schedules monthly with HOF and quarterly reviews with CFO.
• Provide accurate flash reporting with aid of team and business to HOF and CFO before each month close for all markets and ensure minimal variances.

Financial Management:

• Oversee the day-to-day financial operations, general ledger maintenance, master data management and Purchase order processes.
• Manage the month end process to ensure the deadlines set by HOF are met.
• Manage and ensure the accuracy of financial transactions via journal entries reviews, Intercompany transactions, HR, Petty cash related entries, RSC/QCC allocations and reconciliations.
• Perform variance analysis on month close numbers vs forecast and budget.
• Co-ordinate with Marketing team and ensure all expenses and accruals are booked.
• Support HR to ensure correct allocation of heads in restaurants as per budget.
• Posting of all Inter-Group transfers and cheque payments.

PPE Reporting:

• CAPEX/ CWIP management and reconciliation to ensure assets are correctly capitalised and recorded.
• Analyse and report on actual CAPEX spend on projects vs forecast.
• Assist stakeholders in building internal benchmarks and making assumptions on potential new projects.
• Oversee analysis on costing for CAPEX projects to ensure they are in line with expectations.
• Business partner with project team.
• Ability to track actual spend vs forecast and highlight any risks to management on potential overspend.
• Assist with cash flow management on CAPEX projects to ensure greater visibility of future outflows.

Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable Oversight:

• Supervise and lead the Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable teams.
• Ensure accurate and timely processing of invoices, payments, receivables, and collections with minimal escalations.
• Maintaining AP and AR days.
• Collaborate with teams to resolve issues related to billing, payments, and discrepancies.
• Develop process / strategies / technological advancements to improve efficiency & accuracy in both AP & AR.

Audit, Tax and Compliance:

• Facilitate and manage external audits, working closely with auditors to provide necessary documentation and address audit inquiries.
• Implement improvements based on audit recommendations to enhance financial controls.
• Ensure compliance with local and international accounting standards, tax regulations, and industry-specific requirements.
• Preparation of quarterly VAT return working and filing VAT Returns for UAE.
• Prepare annual Corporate Tax returns in line with all authority regulations.
• Calculating Royalty Payments to Franchisor, preparing accruals and managing requirements.
• Ensuring deadlines are met for all submission so there are no fines and penalties.

Projects and Process Improvement:

• Identify opportunities for process optimization and automation within the accounting function to improve efficiency and accuracy as well as streamlining of operations.
• Management of all projects linked to the automation of processes and ensure they are completed as per expected timelines.
• Implement best practices in financial management and stay abreast of industry trends.
• Documentation for key processes and continuous review and updating to ensure compliance.

Team Leadership and Development:

• Lead and mentor the finance team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, professional development and encompassing the CFO’s vision.
• Encourage and advocate for strong team relationships between the entire Finance Team to ensure smooth running of Finance operations.
• Collaborate and effectively communicate with cross-functional teams to enhance overall organizational effectiveness.

Candidate Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Accountancy, Business, Commerce, or Economics.
• Recognized professional finance qualification (e.g., CA, ACMA, ACCA).
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite; strong IT literacy.
• Solid experience in financial analysis, budgeting, forecasting, and reporting.
• In-depth knowledge of Accounts Payable (AP) and Accounts Receivable (AR) processes.
• Business acumen and understanding of the Food & Beverage sector.
• Proven ability to set priorities and adapt to dynamic, fast-paced environments.
• Strong leadership capabilities with a proactive mindset.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with keen attention to detail.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Effective time management with the ability to meet and manage tight deadlines.
• Demonstrated adaptability and openness to change.
• Collaborative team player with strong team-working skills.
• Experience in system implementation and process development.
• Background in start-up environments is highly valued.
• Proficiency in accounting software and advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
• Familiarity with ERP systems is a strong advantage.

Uplift’s Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

At Uplift, we are committed to fair and equal experience for all employees and applicants, supporting the principles of Equal Opportunity Employment. We value the diverse talents and perspectives of individuals from all backgrounds, including minorities, women, and people with disabilities. We focus on creating opportunities for growth and advancement based on each person’s qualifications and performance.