Strategic Finance Leader for a Global School

Cognita Asia Holdings Pte Ltd

Kuwait

On-site

KWD 25,000 - 40,000

Full time

6 days ago

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Job summary

Dasman Bilingual School in Kuwait is seeking a Senior Finance Manager to safeguard financial integrity and guide long‑term sustainability. Reporting to the CEO, you will lead budgeting, controls, and governance across the school, ensuring compliance with Kuwait Ministry regulations and external audits.

This role requires strategic partnership with senior leaders to align financial planning with educational excellence.

Qualifications

Proven leadership experience and professional track record in managing finance teams.
At least five years’ experience in regional leadership, preferably in Kuwait.
Demonstrated efficiency of execution, flexibility and adaptability.
Collaborative approach, with a strong service mentality.
Excellent leadership and mentoring skills; ability to motivate and coach teams to peak performance.
Effective communicator with strong written, verbal and presentation skills (Arabic & English).
Bachelor’s degree in finance or accounting with a CA/CPA.

Responsibilities

Act as a trusted advisor to the CEO / Superintendent, providing financial insight that supports long‑term strategic objectives and sustainable growth.
Contribute as an active member of the school’s senior leadership team, shaping decisions that balance educational excellence with financial stewardship.
Promote an “infinite game” mindset—ensuring decisions prioritize long‑term health, reputation, and viability of the school.
Build strong relationships with academic and operational leaders to align financial planning with the school’s mission and future vision.
Lead the annual budgeting process, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities and realistic operational assumptions.
Establish and enforce robust budgetary controls across all departments, including clear accountability, approval frameworks, and variance thresholds.
Monitor budget performance through regular variance analysis, proactively identifying risks and implementing corrective actions.
Oversee accurate and timely preparation of monthly management accounts and annual financial statements.
Ensure full compliance with Kuwait Ministry of Education regulations and reporting requirements.
Act as the primary liaison with external auditors, ensuring efficient audit processes and timely resolution of findings.
Maintain strong internal controls, financial policies, and governance frameworks.
Oversee core finance operations including accounts payable, receivable, payroll, and procurement.
Identify financial and operational risks, particularly in relation to budget overruns, revenue assumptions, and cost pressures.