Chief Accountant

Job Summary

Waves Investment and Properties LLC is seeking an experienced Chief Accountant to lead the day-to-day accounting function and ensure accurate financial reporting across the company's investment and property-related operations. The role is responsible for maintaining the integrity of the general ledger, overseeing AP/AR and bank reconciliations, managing month-end and year-end closing, ensuring UAE VAT compliance, and supporting external audits. The Chief Accountant will also support process improvements and strengthen internal controls within the finance function.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Accounting & Reporting

·       Oversee the integrity and accuracy of the general ledger and ensure proper classification of transactions.

·       Lead month-end, quarter-end, and year-end closing processes; ensure timely and accurate financial statements.

·       Prepare management reports, reconciliations, and analytical schedules to support decision-making.

·       Ensure adherence to accounting standards and company accounting policies.

Accounts Payable & Accounts Receivable Oversight

·       Oversee invoice processing, approvals, and vendor payments in accordance with the delegated authority matrix.

·       Ensure timely and accurate billing/invoicing, receipt allocation, and monitoring of receivables aging.

·       Support collections and ensure prompt resolution of vendor/customer account discrepancies.

Banking, Treasury & Cash Flow

·       Review and approve bank reconciliations; ensure timely resolution of reconciling items.

·       Support cash flow planning, payment prioritization, and treasury-related reporting.

·       Maintain controls over petty cash and cash handling procedures.

UAE VAT & Compliance

·       Ensure correct VAT treatment for invoices and expenses in line with UAE regulations.

·       Prepare/review VAT returns, supporting schedules, and documentation; ensure timely submission and payment.

·       Maintain VAT records for audit readiness and respond to tax-related queries as needed.

Property & Investment Accounting (as applicable)

·       Oversee accounting for rental income, service charges, maintenance costs, and capital expenditure.

·       Maintain fixed asset register, capitalization policies, and depreciation schedules.

·       Support investment-related accounting entries, schedules, and reconciliations.

Audit & Internal Controls

·       Coordinate with external auditors and prepare audit schedules, confirmations, and supporting documentation.

·       Support implementation of internal controls and assist with internal audit requests and findings resolution.

·       Identify process improvement opportunities and implement accounting best practices to increase efficiency and accuracy.

Team Leadership & Collaboration

·       Supervise and mentor accounting team members; allocate tasks and ensure consistent quality of outputs.

·       Coordinate with operations, procurement, property management, and other stakeholders for accurate financial processing.

·       Support system improvements and ensure proper use of accounting/ERP systems.

Qualifications & Experience

·       Bachelor's degree in accounting, Finance, or a related field.

·       6–10 years of progressive accounting experience, including supervision/leadership responsibilities.

·       UAE experience is strongly preferred; experience in real estate/property management, construction, or investments is an advantage.

·       Strong understanding and hands-on experience with UAE VAT compliance.

Professional Certifications (Preferred)

·       ACCA / CPA / CA / CMA or equivalent.

Skills & Competencies

·       Strong knowledge of accounting principles, financial reporting, and month-end closing processes.

·       Proficiency in MS Excel and accounting/ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Dynamics, Tally, Zoho).

·       Solid understanding of UAE VAT requirements and documentation standards.

·       Excellent attention to detail, organization, and problem-solving skills.

·       Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines, especially during closing and audit periods.

·       Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.

·       High integrity and ability to maintain confidentiality.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

·       Accuracy and timeliness of monthly financial closing and reporting

·       Quality and completeness of reconciliations and supporting schedules

·       VAT compliance accuracy and on-time filing

·       Reduction in outstanding reconciling items and audit findings

·       Team performance, task turnaround time, and stakeholder feedback

Working Conditions

·       Office-based role in Dubai with potential occasional visits to company sites/properties as required.

·       May require additional hours during month-end, year-end, and audit periods.

Compensation & Benefits

[To be discussed; competitive package aligned with UAE market standards]