Senior Accountant for Schools

International Community Schools; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Abu Dhabi seeks an experienced Senior Accountant to oversee accounting operations for multiple branches. The successful candidate will manage financial reporting, ensure compliance with UAE regulations, and provide strategic financial insights. Strong leadership and a background in the education sector are essential for this role. Competitive salary and benefits offered.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits package

Collaborative and supportive work environment

Opportunity to lead accounting operations for prestigious schools

Qualifications

• 7–10 years of accounting experience, including 3 years in a managerial role.
• Experience in private schools or educational institutions is highly preferred.
• Strong knowledge of UAE accounting standards and VAT regulations.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage full accounting operations for all branches.
• Prepare timely financial statements and reports.
• Ensure compliance with UAE financial regulations.

Skills

Leadership skills

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field

CPA / ACCA certification (preferred)

Tools

Accounting software

MS Office (Excel, Word, Outlook)

Job description

Job Description

Job Title

Senior Accountant – Head Office

Location

Abu Dhabi, UAE

Company

International Community Schools

About Us

International Community Schools (ICS) is a leading group of private schools in Abu Dhabi, UAE, with six branches—three offering the American curriculum and three offering the British curriculum. We are committed to delivering quality education and fostering excellence across all our schools.

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced Senior Accountant to oversee the accounting and finance functions of all six branches from our Head Office. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in accounting within the education sector and will be responsible for managing the accounts department, ensuring compliance, and providing strategic financial insights.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Manage and oversee the full accounting operations for all six branches, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and general ledger.
• Prepare accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and reports.
• Monitor and ensure compliance with UAE financial regulations and school policies.
• Supervise, mentor, and coordinate the accounts teams across all branches.
• Implement and maintain internal controls and accounting policies to safeguard school assets.
• Manage budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow planning for all branches.
• Coordinate with auditors during internal and external audits.
• Provide financial analysis and advice to support strategic decision-making at the Head Office level.
• Ensure timely submission of VAT, Zakat, and other statutory filings.
• Assist in the development of financial procedures and process improvements.
• Analyze income, expenditure, and operational costs to provide insights for branch-wise financial performance.
• Provide detailed financial reports to support decision-making by senior management.
• Lead the preparation of annual budgets and periodic forecasts for all branches.
• Support strategic planning by forecasting cash flow requirements and capital expenditures.

Skills and Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (Professional certification such as CPA / ACCA is preferred).
• Minimum 7–10 years of accounting experience, with at least 3 years in a managerial role.
• Proven experience working in private schools or educational institutions is highly preferred.
• Strong knowledge of UAE accounting standards, VAT regulations, and compliance requirements.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and leadership skills.
• Proficient in accounting software and MS Office (Excel, Word, Outlook).
• Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and the ability to meet deadlines.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Benefits

• Opportunity to lead accounting operations for a prestigious group of international schools.
• Collaborative and supportive work environment.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.