Director of Finance and Operations

About The Role

We are seeking an exceptional Director of Finance to lead the financial operations of a landmark infrastructure and energy project in the UAE. This leadership role requires stewardship of the overall financial strategy, governance, funding arrangements, and commercial outcomes associated with one of the region's largest infrastructure developments. The successful candidate will serve as the primary financial advisor to executive leadership, including the Executive Managing Director, Board of Directors, and Shareholders. This position plays a crucial role from the construction phase through ongoing operations to ensure long-term financial success.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and direct the financial strategy, including budgeting, forecasting, and long-term financial planning.
• Provide strategic financial advice and insights to senior management, the Board, and Shareholders.
• Manage all project finance activities, covering lender relations, debt drawdowns, compliance with financial covenants, and shareholder funding obligations.
• Oversee treasury functions, encompassing cash flow management, liquidity, debt servicing, banking partnerships, and foreign exchange risk management.
• Ensure timely and accurate financial reporting in compliance with IFRS standards, including IFRIC 12 related to service concession arrangements.
• Lead budgeting, forecasting, financial modeling, and performance analysis to facilitate informed decision-making.
• Provide commercial financial support on concession, EPC, and O&M contracts, managing change orders, claims, and contract amendments.
• Supervise construction finance, capital expenditure tracking, milestone payments, and cost-to-complete reporting.
• Lead financial risk management, encompassing funding, liquidity, insurance, taxation, and governance.
• Coordinate external and lender audits, regulatory submissions, and ensure compliance with Corporate Tax and VAT obligations.
• Design and enforce robust financial control frameworks, governance policies, and internal procedures.
• Lead and mentor the finance team, promoting a high-performance culture and streamlining finance operations.

Qualifications and Experience

• A Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field is required; an MBA is beneficial.
• Possession of a professional accounting certification such as CA, CPA, or ACCA is mandatory.
• At least 15 years of progressively responsible experience in finance, including a minimum of 5 years in senior leadership roles.
• Proven track record in project finance within large-scale infrastructure, utilities, power, renewable energy, or Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects.
• Strong expertise in project financing structures, treasury management, financial modeling, and corporate governance processes.
• Comprehensive knowledge of IFRS accounting standards including IFRIC 12 service concession accounting.
• Familiarity with UAE Corporate Tax and VAT regulations is essential.
• Demonstrated experience in managing complex lender relationships and financing agreements.
• Ability to effectively present financial information to executive leadership, Boards, and Shareholders.
• Strong commercial acumen with the capability to influence key strategic business decisions.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

Additional Information

Preference will be given to candidates able to commence work immediately or within 30 days of offer acceptance. Applicants must be eligible and willing to work within the United Arab Emirates. Please submit a detailed resume and ensure contact information is included. Applications will be reviewed within seven working days, after which selected candidates will be contacted for further discussions and next steps.