Management Accountant

Purpose of Role The Management Accountant will provide high quality financial support across the Dubai campus, ensuring accurate financial reporting, monthly variance analysis, compliance with University policies, and adherence to local regulatory requirements. The role also provides specialist support in transfer pricing administration, research accounting, and audit coordination, contributing to strong financial governance and informed decision making. Job Title: Management Accountant Grade: 6

Location

Dubai Campus FTE and Working Pattern: 1, Fulltime 35 hours per week Reports to: Financial Controller Purpose of Role The Management Accountant will provide high quality financial support across the Dubai campus, ensuring accurate financial reporting, monthly variance analysis, compliance with University policies, and adherence to local regulatory requirements. The role also provides specialist support in transfer pricing administration, research accounting, and audit coordination, contributing to strong financial governance and informed decision making. Key Responsibilities Management Accounting & Reporting Prepare monthly management accounts for the Dubai campus, including detailed monthly variance analysis and explanation of key movements. Maintain accurate balance sheet reconciliations and ensure compliance with University financial regulations. Support cashflow forecasting and working capital analysis. Transfer Pricing Administration & Accounting Oversee the financial administration of transfer pricing arrangements between Dubai campus and the global Heriot Watt group. Ensure transfer pricing entries are accurately recorded, reconciled, and documented in line with global tax requirements. Maintain supporting schedules, agreements, and policy documentation for auditors and tax advisors. Monitor intercompany transactions and ensure timely settlement of balances. Collaborate with the UK finance team to ensure alignment with group policy and tax compliance. Research Grants & Project Accounting Provide financial administration and support for research grants and funded projects hosted in Dubai. Set up project codes, budgets, and financial tracking mechanisms. Ensure compliance with funder terms and conditions, including allowable costs and reporting formats. Prepare periodic financial reports for principal investigators (PIs) and research services. Support project audits and ensure timely closure of completed projects. Internal & External Audit Coordination Act as key point of contact for campus-level internal and external audit requests. Prepare audit schedules, reconciliations, analysis, and supporting documentation. Ensure financial processes and controls adhere to University governance and audit recommendations. Implement corrective actions and improvements arising from audit findings. Support statutory reporting and year end requirements in collaboration with the UK finance team. Compliance, Controls & Governance Ensure adherence to UAE VAT regulations, corporate compliance requirements, and Heriot Watt financial policies. Strengthen internal controls, conduct regular process reviews, and support risk mitigation measures. Maintain documentation for policy, procedure, and compliance requirements (e.g., procurement, asset management, approvals). Business Partnering & Stakeholder Support Provide proactive financial guidance to academic and professional services staff. Support senior leadership through analysis and insight to inform decision making. Deliver training and financial awareness sessions to non finance colleagues. Respond to financial queries from auditors, regulators, tax consultants, suppliers, and internal stakeholders. Systems & Process Improvement Support effective use of the University s finance systems. Identify and implement process improvements, automation, and efficiencies. Ensure data accuracy, system integrity, and adherence to best practice financial workflows.

Desired Candidate Profile

Qualifications & Experience Essential Part qualified or qualified accountant (CIMA, ACCA, ICAEW, CPA or equivalent). Demonstrated experience in management accounting and financial analysis. Strong understanding of financial controls, audit processes, and compliance. Proficiency in ERP finance systems and advanced Excel skills. Experience in intercompany accounting and reconciliations. Desirable Experience in higher education or not for profit sector. Prior involvement in transfer pricing processes. Exposure to research/grant accounting. Familiarity with UAE VAT and local compliance requirements. Key Competencies Analytical thinking and problem solving High attention to detail Strong communication and stakeholder engagement Ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines Proactive, solutions focused mindset Ethical judgement and integrity