Head of Finance (UAE Nationals Only)May 5, 2025

Head of Finance (UAE Nationals Only)Job Title: Head of Finance (UAE Nationals Only)Reporting Relationship: Director of Administration & OperationsLocation: Global Studies University, Sharjah, United Arab EmiratesExpected Starting Date: For immediate hireJob Status: Full-timeApplication Deadline: The position is open until filledAbout UsLocated 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.Position SummaryGlobal 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 sponsorships. 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.Key ResponsibilitiesBudgeting and Financial Planning:Lead the annual budgeting process, including forecasting, planning, and reportingMonitor and control departmental expenditures in alignment with institutional and project budgetsProvide regular financial reports to senior leadership and stakeholdersAdvise on long-term financial planning and sustainabilityFinance 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 metCommunication with Government, Auditors, and Senior Management:Communicate with the Government Finance Department to ensure compliance and provide required information or reportsWork with internal, external, and government auditors on annual reports or special audit assignmentsPrepare financial reports and presentations for senior management and Board of TrusteesProvide regular reports to management and department heads related to budgets and financial healthLeadership and Strategic Oversight:Provide leadership and direction to the finance and procurement teamsEnsure compliance with relevant financial regulations, audit standards, and institutional policiesCollaborate with other units, university leadership, and external partnersImplement financial systems, technologies, and process improvementsAcademic QualificationsA Bachelor’s degree in Finance or AccountingMaster’s degree or professional qualifications in accounting (CPA, ACCA or CMA)Professional ExperienceMinimum 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 organizationExperience working in the UAE’s regulatory environment and financial practices is preferredProven experience in developing and managing budgets, financial reporting, and compliance in an academic or large organizational settingDemonstrated experience in budgeting, financial planning, and procurement managementStrong knowledge of financial regulations, grant compliance, and procurement practicesProven leadership and team management abilitiesExcellent analytical, communication, and interpersonal skillsFamiliarity with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, or similar) and financial reporting toolsCompetencies and SkillsExcellent knowledge of English and ArabicExperience in financial matters in educational institutionsExperience working with international donors or government-funded projectsUnderstanding of academic or non-profit funding environmentsHigh level of integrity and professionalismStrong interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships at all levels of the organizationAbility to work effectively in a fast-paced and dynamic environmentStrategic thinker with a proactive and solutions-oriented approachHow to ApplyTo Apply, Please Submit The Following Documents:A cover letter outlining your suitability for the roleA detailed CV/resuméContact information for three professional referencesSend your application via email to careers@gsu.ac.ae and include the position title in the subject line.Salary and BenefitsSalary and additional compensation are commensurate with degree and experience. The benefits package includes health insurance, housing and transportation allowances, and children’s school fee sup