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]