Head of Finance

Job Description

Head of Finance – Events

About the Role

This is a hands-on leadership position suited to a finance professional who has led a finance department for at least 5 years. We are looking for someone with a generalist finance background who is comfortable overseeing all aspects of the finance function, rather than someone whose experience has been limited to a highly specialised role within a large corporate environment.

A key responsibility during this contract will be leading the external audit, ensuring timely financial close across multiple entities, meeting statutory deadlines, and maintaining strong financial governance. The successful candidate should also be confident managing tax compliance independently.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all day-to-day finance operations, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, purchasing, expense management, reconciliations, approvals, and cash flow.
• Prepare accurate monthly management accounts, variance analysis, and financial reports for senior leadership.
• Develop budgets, forecasts, and financial models to support strategic decision-making.
• Oversee treasury activities, banking relationships, and liquidity management.
• Ensure compliance with UAE tax regulations and statutory reporting requirements.
• Manage the annual external audit process and regulatory filings.
• Strengthen internal controls and continuously improve finance systems and processes.
• Partner with HR, IT, Legal, and other departments to support business operations.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing finance team.

Requirements

• ACA, ACCA, CPA, or equivalent accounting qualification.
• 7+ years of progressive finance experience, including at least 5 years leading a finance function.
• Experience managing multi-entity and multi-jurisdiction finance operations.
• Strong knowledge of budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and statutory compliance.
• Excellent understanding of UAE tax and accounting regulations.
• Proven leadership, analytical, and organisational skills.
• Ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on operational delivery.