Assistant Accountant

Location: Dubai, UAE

Industry: Retail & FMCG Distribution

Employment Type: Full-Time

About the Company

The Little Birdy Group is a fast-growing UAE-based distribution business representing a portfolio of leading international brands across multiple retail channels.

With a strong market presence and ambitious growth plans across the GCC, we are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Junior Accountant to join our finance team in Dubai.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to develop their accounting career within a fast-paced retail and FMCG distribution environment.

Role Overview

The Junior Accountant will support the finance team with day-to-day accounting activities, reconciliations, accounts payable and receivable, inventory accounting, and month-end reporting.

The ideal candidate will be organised, analytical and confident working with numbers, with some previous accounting experience preferably within retail, FMCG or distribution.

The role will work closely with the wider finance, sales, supply chain and operations teams and offers significant opportunity for learning and development.

Key ResponsibilitiesFinancial Accounting & Reporting

Support the day-to-day accounting cycle including GL, AP and AR
Assist with bank reconciliations and payment reconciliations
Support month-end closing and preparation of management accounts
Maintain accurate accounting records and supporting documentation
Prepare balance sheet reconciliations and schedules
Assist with posting journals, accruals and prepayments
Ensure transactions are accurately recorded within the accounting system

Accounts Receivable & Credit Control

Monitor customer accounts and outstanding receivables
Follow up with customers regarding overdue payments
Maintain accurate customer statements and ageing reports
Assist with credit control and ensure customer payment terms are monitored
Support reconciliation of customer deductions, credit notes and payments

Accounts Payable & Supplier Management

Process and review supplier invoices
Reconcile supplier statements
Assist with preparation of supplier payment schedules
Ensure supplier payments are processed accurately and on time
Investigate invoice discrepancies and liaise with suppliers where required

Retail & FMCG Accounting

Assist with inventory and stock reconciliations
Support landed cost calculations and allocations
Assist with gross margin and product profitability analysis
Support the accounting of promotions, rebates and supplier agreements
Assist with reconciliation of freight, customs, clearance and other landed costs
Work with the supply chain team to investigate stock and costing discrepancies

Compliance & Controls

Assist with UAE VAT reporting and reconciliations
Maintain accurate documentation for audit and compliance purposes
Support the annual external audit process
Follow internal accounting controls and company procedures
Assist with improving finance processes and reporting

Business Support

Assist with cash flow reporting and forecasting
Support budgeting and financial analysis
Prepare ad hoc financial reports as required
Work closely with sales, supply chain and operations teams to resolve accounting queries
Provide general support to the Finance Manager and wider finance team

RequirementsMandatory Requirements

Minimum 2 years of accounting experience
Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Commerce or a related field
Good understanding of basic accounting principles
Experience with accounts payable, accounts receivable and bank reconciliations
Strong Excel skills
High level of accuracy and attention to detail
Strong organisational and time-management skills
Fluent written and spoken English

Preferred

Experience within retail, FMCG or distribution
Experience working with inventory-based businesses
Knowledge of UAE VAT regulations
Experience with Xero or another accounting/ERP system
ACCA, CMA, CPA or similar qualification in progress would be advantageous
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Comfortable working in a fast-paced, growing business
Proactive attitude and willingness to learn