Head of Finance; UAE Nationals

Head of Finance (UAE Nationals Only)

Job Title:

Head of Finance (UAE Nationals Only)

Reporting Relationship:
Director of Administration & Operations

Location:

Global Studies University, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

Expected Starting Date:
For immediate hire

Job Status:
Full-time

Final date to receive applications:
The position is open until filled

Located in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, and following the successful launch of The Africa Institute in 2018, Global Studies University was established in 2023 as a non-profit institution for higher education by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al-Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. Read more.

Global Studies University, Sharjah, UAE, is seeking an experienced and strategic Chief Financial Officer to lead and oversee the Finance and Procurement division. The role will develop and manage the departmental budget, establish and operationalize the Finance and Procurement divisions, and ensure compliant and effective management of funds from grants, donations, and sponsor ships. The role will set up positions within the Finance Unit, guide the organization’s financial health, stability, and sustainability, align operations with institutional strategy goals, and coordinate with the Government and the University’s Board of Trustees for finance-related matters.

• Budgeting and Financial Planning:
  • Lead the annual budgeting process, including forecasting, planning, and reporting
  • Monitor and control departmental expenditures in alignment with institutional and project budgets
  • Provide regular financial reports to senior leadership and stakeholders
  • Advise on long-term financial planning and sustainability
• Finance and Procurement Management:
  • Establish and operationalize the Finance and Procurement divisions within the organization
  • Develop finance and procurement policies, procedures, and best practices in line with university, national, and international regulations and accounting policies
  • Oversee finance and procurement activities to ensure compliance with regulations, transparency, efficiency, and value for money
  • Ensure vendor compliance and contract management standards are met
• Communication with Government, Auditors, and Senior Management:
  • Communicate with the Government Finance Department to ensure compliance and provide required information or reports
  • Work with internal, external, and government auditors on annual reports or special audit assignments
  • Prepare financial reports and presentations for senior management and Board of Trustees
  • Provide regular reports to management and department heads related to budgets and financial health
• Leadership and Strategic Oversight:
  • Provide leadership and direction to the finance and procurement teams
  • Ensure compliance with relevant financial regulations, audit standards, and institutional policies
  • Collaborate with other units, university leadership, and external partners
  • Implement financial systems, technologies, and process improvements

• A Bachelor’s degree in Finance or Accounting
• Master’s degree or professional qualifications in accounting (CPA, ACCA or CMA)

• Minimum of 9 years’ experience as a finance manager of a finance department with at least 4 years in a leadership role within a university, higher education institution, or similar organization
• Experience working in the UAE’s regulatory environment and financial practices is preferred
• Proven experience in developing and managing budgets, financial reporting, and compliance in an academic or large organizational setting
• Demonstrated experience in budgeting, financial planning, and procurement management
• Strong knowledge of financial regulations, grant compliance, and procurement practices
• Proven leadership and team management abilities
• Excellent analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Familiarity with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, or similar) and financial reporting tools

• Excellent knowledge of English and Arabic
• Experience in financial matters in educational institutions
• Experience working with international donors or government-funded projects
• U…