Senior Accountant for Schools

Job Title: Senior Accountant – Head OfficeLocation: Abu Dhabi, UAECompany: International Community SchoolsAbout Us:International Community Schools (ICS) is a leading group of private schools in Abu Dhabi, UAE, with six branches—three offering the American curriculum and three offering the British curriculum. We are committed to delivering quality education and fostering excellence across all our schools.Job Summary:We are seeking an experienced Senior Accountant to oversee the accounting and finance functions of all six branches from our Head Office. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in accounting within the education sector and will be responsible for managing the accounts department, ensuring compliance, and providing strategic financial insights.Roles and Responsibilities: Manage and oversee the full accounting operations for all six branches, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and general ledger. Prepare accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and reports. Monitor and ensure compliance with UAE financial regulations and school policies. Supervise, mentor, and coordinate the accounts teams across all branches. Implement and maintain internal controls and accounting policies to safeguard school assets. Manage budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow planning for all branches. Coordinate with auditors during internal and external audits. Provide financial analysis and advice to support strategic decision-making at the Head Office level. Ensure timely submission of VAT, Zakat, and other statutory filings. Assist in the development of financial procedures and process improvements. Analyze income, expenditure, and operational costs to provide insights for branch-wise financial performance. Provide detailed financial reports to support decision-making by senior management. Lead the preparation of annual budgets and periodic forecasts for all branches. Support strategic planning by forecasting cash flow requirements and capital expenditures. RequirementsSkills and Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (Professional certification such as CPA/ACCA is preferred). Minimum 7–10 years of accounting experience, with at least 3 years in a managerial role. Proven experience working in private schools or educational institutions is highly preferred. Strong knowledge of UAE accounting standards, VAT regulations, and compliance requirements. Excellent analytical, organizational, and leadership skills. Proficient in accounting software and MS Office (Excel, Word, Outlook). Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and the ability to meet deadlines. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. BenefitsWhy Join Us: Opportunity to lead accounting operations for a prestigious group of international schools. Collaborative and supportive work environment. Competitive salary and benefits package.