Financial Controller

The University of Sharjah is committed to providing a world-class educational experience that prepares lifelong learners and leaders with integrated knowledge and skills. We are passionate about building a collaborative and sustainable environment that cultivates twenty-first-century skills and fosters pioneering research and scholarship. We seek to serve the current and future needs of our local community and beyond by offering innovative academic and professional programs.

Since its foundation in 1997, the University has successfully become one of the top Universities in the UAE and has managed to make its mark in the educational and research industry worldwide united by six core values: Integrity and Ethics, Dedication, Inclusiveness, Excellence with limitless Drive, Accountability and Transparency, and Innovation and Creativity.

The University of Sharjah believes in the crucial role of scientific research in the development of the modern United Arab Emirates. Since its establishment, the university has put research at the top of its list of priorities. Part of the university's strategy is to promote research among faculty members in all colleges, with the aim of attracting outstanding faculty with impressive research accomplishments.

The University of Sharjah's Rankings

251-300 in Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023

Among the top 200 universities globally (176-200) in The World University Rankings 2023 by Subjects

Among the best #121 universities in Asia In News Best Global Universities Rankings 2022/2023

=89th in The Young University Rankings in 2022

#61 The Emerging Economies University Rankings in 2022

Among the top 10 best Arab universities The Arab University Rankings 2022

About the Role:

As a Financial Controller To be responsible for ensuring the absolute integrity, accuracy, and timeliness of the University's financial operations. Reporting directly to the Director of Finance, the role provides strategic oversight across all core finance functions, including Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Treasury, General Ledger, Tax, and Financial Planning and Analysis.

Key Duties & Responsibilities:

Strategic Financial Oversight & Section Coordination

1. Identify process gaps and inefficiencies across sections, coordinating corrective actions with Heads of Sections to ensure smooth interdepartmental workflows with IT, Procurement, and FMPD.

2. Support the Director of Finance in achieving departmental KPIs by gathering data, preparing progress reports, and implementing approved action plans.

Governance, Policy Compliance & Risk Management

3. Assist in developing and updating fiscal management policies and procedures, ensuring full alignment with IFRS, UAE regulations, and industry best practices.

4. Conduct periodic awareness and training sessions for staff to ensure consistent application of UoS financial policies and procedures.

Financial Reporting, Audit & Tax Compliance

5. Monitor monthly and annual closing activities, leading the preparation of the trial balance, year-end schedules, and annual financial statements.

6. Ensure full compliance with UAE Tax laws (VAT and Corporate Tax) by reviewing filings, reconciliations, and supporting documentation.

Operational Control & Transactional Review

7. Review and approve payment batches, AP invoices, and authorize high-value journal vouchers exceeding AED 1 million.

8. Engage with internal profit-generating units (e.g., Medical Clinics, Research Centers) to review their revenue processes and internal controls.

Process Improvement & Stakeholder Relations

9. Drive digital transformation by supporting ERP (Oracle Fusion) enhancements and automation initiatives in collaboration with IT and external consultants.

10. Provide consultative assistance to Deans, Directors, and other university entities regarding the interpretation of budget information and financial policies.

Job Requirements:

? Excellent oral and written communication skills and the ability to prepare professional documents, in both Arabic and English.

? Excellent working knowledge of personal computer applications with an emphasis on MS Office applications such as Excel, Word, and Teams.

? Hands-on experience with Oracle Fusion ERP and advanced data visualization tools like Power BI.

? Ability to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of financial operations across GL, Fixed Assets, and Tax.

? Expert-level understanding of UAE financial laws and international accounting standards to mitigate institutional risk.

? Proficiency in high-level financial modelling, budget monitoring, and performance analysis.

? Capability to lead diverse finance sections and coordinate with external units like IT, Procurement, and Academic Departments.

? High attention to detail in reviewing high-value transactions and complex reconciliations.

? Proactive identification of gaps in internal controls and the ability to implement corrective governance actions.

? Minimum bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a relevant discipline.

? A professional qualification as a chartered accountant or qualified member of an accountancy body (e.g. CPA, CMA, ACCA, CIMA, ICAS, etc.).

? An MBA or a master's degree in Finance will add an advantage.

? 10-12 years of UAE experience in a similar role, preferably in higher education institutions.

Closing Date: 08/Feb/2026