Job Description

De Montfort University Dubai

is seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented

Senior Finance Officer

to join our Finance team. This role plays a vital part in ensuring the university's financial operations--particularly in accounts payable, cash flow management, fixed asset accounting, and tax compliance--are efficient, accurate, and aligned with regulatory standards.
You will work closely with the Head of Finance and the Assistant Finance Manager to manage daily transactions, oversee payment processes, maintain accurate records, and support external audits and reporting. The ideal candidate will bring a strong understanding of financial systems, a proactive approach to fraud risk mitigation, and the ability to lead improvements in systems and processes.

Key Responsibilities:

Accounts Payable & Payment Management

Ensure timely, accurate payment of supplier invoices, student transactions, and staff expenses. Oversee SAP entries, vendor creation, and online banking processes with fraud controls. Maintain a full audit trail for payments and ensure compliance with university policies. Reconcile bank statements, process petty cash claims, and support corporate card management.

Cash Flow & Financial Reporting

Support preparation of rolling cash flow forecasts. Monitor daily cash positions to ensure sufficient funds for obligations. Assist in month-end/year-end financial close activities and ensure accurate ledger postings. Prepare prepayment schedules and manage accruals and expenditure reports.

Fixed Assets & Capital Projects

Maintain and reconcile the Fixed Asset Register. Ensure correct categorisation of capital expenditure and depreciation entries. Support project cost tracking, WIP accounting, and asset capitalization.

VAT & Tax Compliance

Assist with VAT classification, reporting, and return submissions in line with UAE FTA regulations. Maintain documentation for audit and regulatory reviews. Support corporate tax filings and annual audits.

Candidate Requirements:

Qualifications:

Fully or part-qualified with a recognised accountancy body (e.g., ACCA). Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, or related discipline.

Experience:

5 to 7 years of relevant working experience. Proven experience leading accounts payable and finance operations. Strong knowledge of UAE VAT, audit processes, and month-end/year-end closures. Experience with SAP or other ERP systems. Proficient in Microsoft Excel (PivotTables, VLOOKUP, etc.). Experience in higher education is an advantage.

Skills & Attributes:

Excellent attention to detail, analytical thinking, and decision-making ability. Strong understanding of fraud risks and financial controls. Confident communicator with both financial and non-financial stakeholders. Flexible team player with a proactive, solution-oriented mindset.

Why Join DMU Dubai?

DMU Dubai is committed to providing an inclusive and dynamic environment that supports personal and professional growth. Join a forward-thinking institution where your contributions make a real impact on student success and university operations.

If you feel that your profile matches the above job description, we encourage you to apply. We will be carefully reviewing all applications to identify candidates who align with the role requirements and the values of DMU Dubai.