Finance & Accounting Expert

Finance & Accounting Expert Location: Abu Dhabi Nationality: UAE Nationals only About Iris Executives Iris Executives is a leading Emiratisation and Executive Search specialist, supporting government and semi-government entities across the UAE since 2010. We partner confidentially with organisations on critical national roles, ensuring the highest standards of professionalism, discretion, and long-term impact. Role Overview Iris Executives is supporting a leading federal government entity in the appointment of a Finance & Accounting Expert within its Finance Department. This role plays a critical part in ensuring strong financial governance, compliance, and control across local government operations and international offices. The successful candidate will bring hands-on Ministry of Finance or federal government finance experience, with a deep understanding of public sector financial frameworks and cross-border financial oversight. This is a senior, hands-on finance role, ideal for an experienced UAE National professional who understands how government finance works in practice — not just in theory. Key Responsibilities Oversee budgeting, financial reporting, and expenditure tracking for international offices, ensuring accuracy and transparency. Lead the preparation of local government financial statements and budgets in line with public sector accounting standards (such as IPSAS). Ensure financial operations across international locations comply with federal policies, Ministry of Finance requirements, and host-country regulations. Design, implement, and maintain robust internal control frameworks across local and international operations. Prepare finance functions for audits and reviews by internal and external oversight bodies. Manage cash flow, treasury operations, and disbursements, ensuring funds are utilised correctly and efficiently. Provide guidance, oversight, and technical support to finance staff locally and in international offices. Identify opportunities to optimise processes and improve operational efficiency within finance operations. Ideal Candidate Profile UAE National. Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline (required). Master’s degree in Public Finance, International Finance, or Business (preferred). Professional certification: CPA, ACCA, or CGMA (minimum one required). Minimum 10 years’ experience in finance or accounting roles. At least 3 years in a senior or supervisory finance position, preferably within a federal government or Ministry of Finance environment. Proven experience preparing financial statements, budgets, and regulatory reports. Strong, practical understanding of government finance and public financial management. Key Skills & Expertise Deep knowledge of public sector financial management, including IFRS, GAAP, and regulatory compliance. Strong understanding of federal financial policies and Ministry of Finance frameworks. Experience with government ERP / FMIS systems. Budget analysis, policy interpretation, and financial modelling capabilities. Ability to work confidently with international stakeholders and cross-cultural teams.