Job Description

With a 65-year legacy of excellence and a global reputation as one of the largest and most awarded private education providers, GEMS Education integrates cutting-edge advancements through its extensive networks and high-level partnerships. Join the GEMS School of Research and Innovation, where significant investments in AI, robotics, and state-of-the-art facilities drive exceptional student outcomes in academics and well-being. As a leader in educational innovation, we offer a forward-thinking environment focused on personalised learning, holistic development, and the opportunity to shape the future of education.
At GEMS School of Research and Innovation, we provide a seamless educational journey from Pre-Prep + Prep to Sixth Form, enhanced by cutting-edge technology and a forward-thinking curriculum. In the Pre-Prep + Prep stages, we prioritise personalized learning through gamification and advanced technologies, alongside a strong emphasis on science, computing, reading, writing, and the arts. Our facilities include an innovation lab, specialist IT equipment, and programs in sports such as gymnastics, martial arts, basketball, and cricket. Emerging technologies like robotics, AI, machine learning, and VR/AR are integrated to enhance learning, including advanced Arabic provision.
In Secondary and Sixth Form, students benefit from tailored pathways with a wide range of GCSEs, A-levels in subjects like sciences, business, and fine arts, supported by university-linked lectures and industry placements. Advanced tools such as Web3/blockchain, drones, autonomous vehicles, and esports labs prepare students for future careers. Sixth Form further bridges school, university, and industry through global partnerships and cutting-edge technology, ensuring students excel academically while acquiring real-world skills.
GEMS School of Research and Innovation is seeking a highly capable and strategic Finance Manager to lead the financial operations at school. As Finance Manager, you will oversee all aspects of the school's financial management, reporting directly to the Principal & CEO and working closely with the Finance Business Partner and the GEMS central Finance team. This role requires a strong financial leader who can balance operational rigour with forward-thinking planning, ensuring compliance, value creation, and effective resource use across the school.
Skills
Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and reporting cycles for the school, ensuring they align with SRI's strategic priorities.
• Provide clear, data-driven financial insights that support SRI's transdisciplinary, tech-enabled curriculum and innovation-driven operations.
• Ensure robust financial controls, compliance with tax and regulatory frameworks, and audit readiness in line with GEMS policies and UAE standards.
• Oversee the full scope of school finance, including payroll, accounts receivable/payable, VAT reporting, fixed assets, and ledger integrity.
• Manage the effective use of financial systems, digital tools, and ERP platforms--leveraging technology to improve efficiency, forecasting accuracy, and user experience.
• Collaborate across departments to ensure that budgeting supports SRI's Centres of Excellence, digitally connected learning spaces, and integrated project-based approaches.
• Monitor MIS and variance reports, ensuring transparency and timely decision-making at all levels of school leadership.
• Champion operational scalability and resource alignment as SRI grows as a model of innovation and inquiry in the region.
• Maintain strong internal and external stakeholder relationships while supporting a high-performing, future-ready finance function.

Qualifications:

• Qualified Chartered Accountant (intermediate) or First-Class B.Com/M.Com/MBA with 7-10 years of relevant experience.
• Demonstrated ability to manage the full finance function of a medium-sized organisation (ideally above AED 100M turnover).
• Strong understanding of IFRS, UAE tax and VAT regulations.
• Proficient in financial ERP systems and Microsoft Office tools.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with a range of stakeholders.
• Strong organisational abilities, attention to detail, and the capacity to manage multiple tasks simultaneously. Proven ability to meet targets and work independently to support admissions objectives.
• Interpersonal Skills: A friendly and approachable manner, with a commitment to providing excellent customer service.

GEMS Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all of its students and staff. A UK-enhanced DBS or equivalent police check is a pre-requisite for all appointments.