Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Job Summary
International Community Schools (ICS) is a leading educational group in Abu Dhabi operating 6 branches and delivering high-quality British and American curricula. As part of our continued growth and commitment to excellence we are seeking a dynamic and strategic Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to lead the finance function across the organization. This senior leadership role will be instrumental in shaping financial strategy enhancing operational efficiency ensuring regulatory compliance and supporting executive decision-making to drive sustainable growth across all ICS branches.
International Community Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to satisfactory references and the receipt of police clearance. We strongly encourage UAE Nationals to apply.
Role Summary
The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) will oversee the entire finance and accounts function across all ICS branches ensuring strong financial governance compliance with UAE regulations and alignment with organizational objectives. The role requires a strategic leader who can drive financial planning optimize resources and provide high-level insights to support business growth and operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage the finance and accounts function across all ICS branches
- Develop and implement financial strategies budgets and forecasts aligned with organizational goals
- Ensure compliance with UAE financial regulations tax laws and audit requirements
- Oversee financial reporting ensuring accuracy transparency and timely delivery to senior leadership
- Manage cash flow cost control and financial risk effectively
- Establish and strengthen internal controls policies and financial procedures
- Lead annual audits liaise with external auditors and ensure regulatory compliance
- Provide strategic financial insights and recommendations to the CEO and senior leadership team
- Optimize and enhance ERP and financial systems to improve efficiency and reporting
- Lead mentor and develop a high-performing finance team across multiple branches
Requirements
Key Skills & Requirements
- Proven experience as a CFO Finance Director or Senior Financial Leader
- Strong expertise in financial planning budgeting forecasting and analysis
- In-depth knowledge of UAE financial regulations and compliance frameworks
- Experience in multi-entity or multi-branch operations
- Strong leadership and team management capabilities
- Excellent analytical problem-solving and decision-making skills
- Experience with ERP systems and financial reporting tools
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
Educational & Professional Qualifications
- Bachelors degree in Finance Accounting or related field
- Professional certification such as CPA ACCA CFA or equivalent (preferred)
- Minimum 510 years of progressive finance experience with at least 2-3 years in a senior leadership role
- Experience in the education sector is an added advantage
Benefits
Why Join ICS
- Be part of a well-established and growing education group in Abu Dhabi
- Opportunity to work in a strategic leadership role with direct impact on organizational growth
- Collaborative and professional working environment
- Exposure to multi-branch operations and advanced ERP systems
- Opportunity to contribute to innovation and continuous improvement