Senior Accountant

Senior AccountantLocation: Dubai, UAEIndustry: Retail & FMCG DistributionEmployment Type: Full-TimeAbout the CompanyThe Little Birdy Group are a fast-growing UAE-based distribution business representing a portfolio of leading international brands across multiple retail channels. With a strong market presence and ambitious growth plans across the GCC, we are seeking an experienced and commercially minded Senior Accountant to join and lead our finance team in Dubai.Role OverviewThe Senior Accountant will be responsible for overseeing day-to-day accounting operations, financial reporting, compliance, and working capital management across the business. The ideal candidate will have strong experience within UAE retail and FMCG distribution environments, with a deep understanding of inventory accounting, trade receivables, rebate structures, supplier management, VAT, and financial controls.This role requires a hands-on professional who can operate both strategically and operationally in a fast-paced distribution business, with strong communication skills.Key ResponsibilitiesFinancial Accounting & ReportingManage the full accounting cycle including GL, AP, AR, bank reconciliations, and month-end closePrepare monthly management accounts and financial reportsEnsure timely and accurate financial reporting in line with IFRSMaintain accurate balance sheet schedules and reconciliationsRetail & FMCG AccountingOversee inventory accounting, stock reconciliations, landed cost allocations, and margin analysisManage foreign exchange buying to ensure FX leakage is mitigatedMonitor working capital performanceManage receivables, collections, supplier payments to ensure they are settled on timeManage credit control to ensure customers in line with their commercial termsManage accounting for any promotions, rebates, trade spend, and supplier agreementsAnalyse product and channel profitability Compliance & ControlsEnsure compliance with UAE VAT regulations and corporate policiesCoordinate with auditors during annual auditsStrengthen internal controls and financial processesSupport implementation and optimisation of ERP/accounting systemsBusiness SupportAdvise senior management with regards to corporation tax requirementsAssist management with budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow planningProvide financial insights to support commercial and operational decisionsWork closely with sales, supply chain, and operations teamsRequirementsMandatory RequirementsMinimum 5 years of accounting experienceMust hold a recognised professional accounting qualification:CA / ACCA / CPA / CMA or equivalentExperience within retail and FMCG Distribution environmentsStrong knowledge of IFRS and UAE VAT regulationsExperience managing inventory-heavy businessesAdvanced Excel and ERP system experiencePreferredStrong communication skills, written and verbal in EnglishExperience in multi-brand distribution businessesExperience managing or mentoring junior finance staffExperience with Xero (our accounting software), SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics, or similar ERP systemsStrong analytical and commercial finance skills