Finance Manager

Our client is a well-established consultancy operating across large-scale projects within the built environment sector. The organisation has a strong reputation for delivering complex projects and is continuing to expand its operations across the UAE, creating an opportunity for a commercially minded finance leader to join the business.

• Lead the overall finance function and ensure the financial stability and growth of the business
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in line with applicable accounting standards and regulatory requirements
• Develop and maintain reporting frameworks that support business analysis, forecasting, and executive decision-making
• Monitor financial performance, profitability, utilisation, and operating margins across projects and business units
• Produce detailed project cost analysis, variance reports, and performance dashboards for senior management
• Deliver financial insights and recommendations to support strategic and commercial decisions
• Lead the annual budgeting process and long-term financial forecasting activities
• Partner with operational leaders to ensure budgets accurately reflect project plans and resource requirements
• Maintain rolling forecasts by incorporating project delays, variations, and business risks
• Oversee project accounting including revenue recognition, work-in-progress tracking, and profitability analysis
• Manage progress billings, retention balances, variations, and claims in line with contractual requirements
• Implement robust project cost centre accounting and reporting structures
• Manage cash flow, liquidity, working capital, and treasury functions
• Oversee collections and support the resolution of outstanding receivables
• Manage supplier payments, payroll-related financial obligations, and banking relationships
• Ensure compliance with UAE VAT, corporate tax, labour regulations, and statutory requirements
• Develop and maintain effective internal controls to safeguard company assets and financial information
• Lead external audits and ensure timely completion of statutory reporting obligations
• Assess financial risks related to projects, contracts, and operational activities and implement mitigation strategies
• Provide financial input into strategic initiatives, investments, partnerships, and growth opportunities
• Conduct financial modelling, scenario planning, and investment appraisals
• Support workforce planning through close collaboration with HR on manpower budgets and employee costs
• Mentor, develop, and lead a team of two finance professionals
• Build and maintain relationships with banks, auditors, regulators, clients, and other stakeholders
• Represent the finance function in senior leadership discussions and business planning activities

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related discipline
• Professional qualification is mandatory: CA, CMA, ACCA, or CPA
• Minimum 10 years of finance experience with at least 5 years in a leadership role
• Minimum 5 years of experience within a construction, engineering consultancy, or project-based environment would be highly preferred
• Strong knowledge of financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning
• Proven experience in UAE VAT, corporate tax, and regulatory compliance
• Experience managing audits, treasury activities, and internal controls
• Strong understanding of project accounting and contract-based financial management
• Proficiency with accounting and ERP systems
• Ability to work on-site in Abu Dhabi five days per week
• Experience leading and developing finance teams