Group Finance and Accounting Manager

About the RoleWe are seeking an experienced and strategic Group Finance Manager to lead the finance function for a diversified retail group in the UAE. This is a leadership role responsible for overseeing all aspects of finance, accounting, budgeting, reporting, taxation, treasury, and compliance across multiple business entities.The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in multi-entity accounting, retail finance, cost management, and financial planning, with the ability to lead a high-performing finance team while partnering with senior leadership to support business growth and profitability.Key ResponsibilitiesLead and manage the Group Finance department, providing direction, mentorship, and performance management to the finance team.Oversee the financial operations of multiple legal entities, ensuring accurate consolidation and timely financial reporting.Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in compliance with IFRS and UAE regulatory requirements.Drive budgeting, forecasting, and long-term financial planning across all business units.Develop and implement robust financial controls, policies, and procedures to safeguard company assets.Monitor cash flow, treasury operations, working capital, and banking relationships.Lead cost management initiatives by identifying cost-saving opportunities, improving operational efficiencies, and monitoring expenditure across the Group.Analyze financial performance, profitability, and key business drivers, providing actionable insights to senior management.Oversee inventory accounting, stock valuation, and cost control in collaboration with operations and supply chain teams.Ensure compliance with UAE Corporate Tax, VAT regulations, statutory requirements, and external audit processes.Manage relationships with external auditors, tax consultants, banks, and regulatory authorities.Review and approve payments, reconciliations, journal entries, and financial transactions.Support strategic business decisions through financial modelling, investment analysis, and feasibility studies.Ensure ERP systems and finance processes are optimized to improve reporting accuracy and operational efficiency.Present financial reports and business performance updates to executive management.QualificationsBachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related discipline.Professional qualification such as CA, ACCA, CPA, or CMA is highly preferred.MBA in Finance is an added advantage.ExperienceMinimum 10–15 years of progressive finance and accounting experience.At least 5 years in a senior leadership role managing the complete finance function.Proven experience handling finance for multiple legal entities within a retail or consumer-focused organization.Strong background in cost management, budgeting, financial planning, and business partnering.Experience leading finance teams in a fast-paced, multi-company environment.Technical SkillsStrong knowledge of IFRS, UAE Corporate Tax, VAT, and financial compliance.Expertise in financial reporting, consolidations, budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management.Experience with ERP systems such as Microsoft Dynamics 365, SAP, Oracle, or similar.Advanced Microsoft Excel and financial modelling skills.Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.Key CompetenciesStrategic LeadershipFinancial Planning & AnalysisMulti-Entity Financial ManagementCost Management & Profitability ImprovementBusiness AcumenRisk Management & Internal ControlsTeam Leadership & People DevelopmentStakeholder ManagementExcellent Communication & Presentation SkillsHigh Integrity and Attention to Detail