Senior Accountant

International Community Schools; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

An established educational institution in Abu Dhabi is seeking a Senior Accountant to join their finance team. This pivotal role involves overseeing financial reporting, ensuring compliance with accounting standards, and managing month-end and year-end closings. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in accounting, particularly within the education sector, and will be responsible for preparing financial statements, conducting financial analysis, and supervising junior staff. Join a collaborative and growth-oriented environment that values academic excellence and innovation, while offering opportunities for professional development and a competitive salary package.

Benefits

Professional development opportunities

Collaborative work environment

Competitive salary and benefits package

Qualifications

• 5+ years in accounting with experience in a senior role.
• Strong understanding of GAAP and IFRS standards.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily accounting operations for all school branches.
• Prepare accurate financial reports and maintain general ledger.
• Supervise and mentor junior accounting staff.

Skills

Accounting

Financial Analysis

Leadership

Budgeting

Financial Reporting

Data Analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance

CPA or other professional certification

Tools

Accounting Software

Microsoft Office

MS Excel

Job description

International Community Schools (ICS) is a well-established group of private schools in Abu Dhabi, UAE, dedicated to delivering high-quality education across six branches. We are committed to academic excellence, innovation, and strong community values. As we continue to grow, we are looking for a Senior Accountant to join our central finance team to oversee financial reporting, ensuring compliance with accounting standards, and managing the month-end and year-end closings. The role requires preparing financial statements, conducting financial analysis, and supervising junior staff. This includes budgeting, forecasting, audits, and government filings, while ensuring the accuracy of financial data. Strong leadership and proficiency in accounting software are key to the position. Previous experience working in a school or education sector is required.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage and oversee daily accounting operations for all school branches.
• Prepare accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports.
• Maintain general ledger and ensure timely reconciliations.
• Assist in the development and management of annual budgets.
• Monitor and analyze financial performance and provide recommendations.
• Ensure compliance with UAE financial regulations and internal policies.
• Coordinate with external auditors and support audit processes.
• Supervise and mentor junior accounting staff.
• Liaise with banks, suppliers, and regulatory bodies as needed.
• Contribute to financial forecasting, budgeting and long-term financial planning.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field. A CPA or other professional certification is often preferred.
• 5+ years in accounting, with at least 2-3 years in a senior or supervisory role. Must have previous experience working in a school or education sector.
• Proficiency in accounting software and Microsoft Office, especially MS Excel.
• Strong understanding of GAAP, IFRS, and financial reporting.
• Experience managing or mentoring junior accounting staff.
• High accuracy in financial reporting and data analysis.

Why Join ICS?

• Be part of a respected educational institution with a strong reputation.
• Collaborative and growth-oriented work environment.
• Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.

Benefits according to UAE law.