Job Description

De Montfort University (DMU) Dubai

is seeking a detail-oriented and analytical

Assistant Finance Business Partner

to join our Finance and Procurement team. This role is key in supporting the Head of Finance and wider stakeholders by providing clear, accurate financial analysis, advice, and business partnering to facilitate strategic decision-making across the University.
The successful candidate will have strong financial modelling skills, excellent communication abilities, and a proactive approach to supporting both senior leadership and non-financial colleagues.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Business Partnering

Support the preparation of monthly management accounts and financial forecasts. Provide financial advice and guidance to budget holders in a clear and accessible manner. Lead and support the annual budgeting process and forecasting exercises. Champion strong financial performance and build financial awareness among non-finance stakeholders.

Month-End and Year-End Oversight

Coordinate month-end and year-end close processes to ensure timely reporting. Ensure management accounts are completed and submitted within agreed timelines. Supervise Finance Officers and align their objectives with wider departmental priorities.

Financial Modelling & Data Integrity

Develop, maintain, and analyse complex financial models to support key business decisions. Ensure accuracy and integrity of financial data within university systems (SAP). Investigate variances and escalate financial risks or issues to senior management when required.

Team Leadership & Process Improvement

Provide oversight and mentoring to Finance Officers. Promote best practices and identify process improvement opportunities. Deputise for the Head of Finance and escalate key items to the Deputy Director of Financial Management when required. Collaborate cross-functionally to deliver high-impact initiatives across the University.

Qualifications & Experience

CCAB-recognised accountancy qualification (e.g., ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA)

- Required*

Minimum 5 years of relevant experience

in financial management or accounting roles, with at least 3 years in a business partnering or analytical role - Required*
Proven experience in developing and maintaining financial models - Required*
Demonstrated experience of using ERP systems (preferably SAP) - Required*
Previous experience in higher education or the public sector - Desirable*
Strong IT proficiency, particularly in

Microsoft Excel

(pivot tables, VLOOKUP, formula writing) - Required*
Experience supervising finance staff and coordinating workload priorities - Desirable*
Clear communication skills and ability to explain financial data to non-finance stakeholders - Required*
Strong organisational skills, time management, and attention to detail - Required*

Why Join DMU Dubai?

At

De Montfort University Dubai

, we foster a collaborative and supportive environment. You will have the opportunity to work with dynamic teams, influence strategic decisions, and contribute to the financial health of a growing international university. This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys problem-solving, cross-departmental collaboration, and helping others understand the value of sound financial management.
If you are driven, proactive, and looking to make a real impact--

we'd love to hear from you

.