Finance Operations Manager Jobs in Abu Dhabi, UAE | Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi
Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi is hiring a Finance Operations Manager to oversee financial operations including AP, AR, Fixed Assets, Treasury, VAT, and Payroll.
About Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi
Premier Higher Education InstitutionSorbonne University Abu Dhabi is a higher education institution that attracts the best students from the UAE and around the world. Established in 2006 as a result of an agreement between the Sorbonne University in Paris and the Government of Abu Dhabi, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi has benefited from its unique associations with two globally renowned academic institutions; Sorbonne University and Paris Descartes University ensuring that degrees offered are to the highest international standards and identical to those obtained in Paris.
Our students benefit from 760 years of academic excellence and learn on a state-of-the-art campus on Al-Reem Island in Abu Dhabi. Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi is a place of cultural exchange where teachers and students are constantly on the move and a sought-after destination for academic and cultural events. Both our undergraduate and postgraduate programmes are specially designed to train students for international careers that match the demands of global employment markets.
Job Overview
Job Summary
Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi is seeking a Finance Operations Manager to oversee the financial operations under the direction of the Finance Head of Department. This role involves supervising the operation accounting section to ensure optimization of operations and services in terms of efficiency and effectiveness. The successful candidate will implement and manage adequate systems, software, and controls to optimize core functions including Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Fixed Asset Management, Treasury/Cash Management, VAT, and Payroll Processing.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Operations & Controls
- Ensure robust financial systems, controls, and processes are in place across all accounting functions.
- Support monthly and year-end closing activities, ensuring timely reconciliation of all University accounts.
- Foster positive relationships with vendors, customers, and students by addressing concerns and resolving issues.
- Act as a key liaison between the Finance Department and other University departments.
- Support digital transformation initiatives by enhancing financial systems, processes, and tools.
- Review and update internal controls, accounting policies, and financial procedures.
- Supervise and develop direct reports through ongoing coaching, feedback, and performance management.
- Coordinate with internal, external, and other auditors.
Accounts Receivable, Accounts Payable & Student Data
- Monitor accounts receivable activities including student and corporate accounts.
- Oversee the preparation and review of Accounts Receivable ageing reports.
- Review receivable statements and maintain records of doubtful debts and write-offs.
- Oversee the day-to-day management of accounts payable activities.
Fixed Assets, Payroll, Treasury & VAT
- Maintain and monitor the Fixed Assets Register, ensuring accurate recording and depreciation.
- Review and approve asset additions, disposals, retirements, and adjustments.
- Review monthly payroll following HR processing and ensure timely and accurate payment.
- Support the development and maintenance of effective banking relationships.
- Support the review and submission of monthly VAT returns to the Department of Finance and FTA.
- Ensure compliance with applicable accounting standards, tax regulations, and local financial legislation.
Qualifications & Requirements
The ideal candidate for this Finance Operations Manager vacancy in Abu Dhabi must meet the following criteria:
Mandatory Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Accountancy or other related specializations
- Professional Accounting qualification from internationally recognized body: ACCA, CPA, or CA
- 6-8 years of Accounting and Finance experience, preferably in the Higher Education sector
Job-Specific Skills
- Strong financial acumen with expertise in IPSAS, taxation, financial reporting, budgeting, and forecasting
- Proven ability to lead and develop high-performing finance and accounting teams
- Demonstrated experience in managing and optimizing financial systems and ERP platforms (ADERP, Oracle, Banner, CRM)
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with ability to interpret complex financial data
- Thorough understanding of regulatory compliance, internal controls, and audit management
- Expertise in process improvement, automation, and operational efficiency initiatives
- Excellent stakeholder management, communication, and presentation skills
- Strong planning, organizational, and attention-to-detail skills
How to Write a Strong CV for This Role
- 1Highlight your professional accounting qualification (ACCA, CPA, or CA) prominently and your 6-8 years of finance experience.
- 2Detail your experience with financial systems and ERP platforms including ADERP, Oracle, Banner, or similar.
- 3Include keywords like "Finance Operations Manager", "Accounts Payable", "Accounts Receivable", "VAT", and "Abu Dhabi" for ATS.
- 4Emphasise your experience in the Higher Education sector and knowledge of IPSAS, taxation, and regulatory compliance.
- 5Keep it to 1–2 clean pages — recruiters scan in 30 seconds.
- 6Send your CV as a PDF to preserve formatting on every device.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for this Finance Operations Manager position?
Apply online through the official Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi careers portal at https://iaaibv.fa.ocs.oraclecloud29.com/hcmUI/CandidateExperience/en/sites/CX_3001/job/1872.
What is the most important requirement for this role?
The most critical requirements are a professional accounting qualification (ACCA, CPA, or CA) and 6-8 years of finance experience, preferably in the Higher Education sector.
What qualification is required for this job?
Candidates must hold a Bachelor's degree in Accountancy and a professional accounting qualification from an internationally recognized body such as ACCA, CPA, or CA.
What is the salary for this position?
The salary is competitive and will be discussed during the interview process based on experience and qualifications.
When is the joining date?
This is an immediate joining position. Candidates must be available to start as soon as possible.
