Chief Accountant - Dubai, United Arab Emirates - The First Group

Description

Overview

About The First Collection:
The First Collection represents a new era of urban lifestyle resorts, delivering a unique blend of hospitality across Dubai's vibrant landscape. Known for merging modern sophistication with authentic Dubai charm, The First Collection is where exceptional service meets innovative design. Each hotel in the portfolio offers bespoke experiences, including exclusive access to Soluna Restaurants & Beach Club on the Palm Jumeirah for both dining and beachside relaxation, as well as serene city escapes that reflect Dubai's dynamic energy. As part of The First Group, a leader in award-winning hospitality and real estate developers in Dubai, The First Collection is more than a hotel brand—it's an immersive journey into the heart of Dubai.

About The First Collection Marina:
Nestled in Dubai Marina, The First Collection Marina provides a chic urban escape with stunning views and premium facilities with 493 guest rooms and suites. Guests can relax in the rooftop pool, rejuvenate at the spa, and enjoy exclusive access to Soluna Restaurants & Beach Club on the Palm Jumeirah, encompassing both dining and beach club experiences. Ideal for travellers seeking a relaxed yet lively stay, this hotel captures the spirit of Dubai Marina.

About The First Group Hospitality

The First Group Hospitality is a Dubai-headquartered, full-service hospitality management company specialising in hotel operations, asset management, and F&B strategy. With a team of industry veterans and a proven track record, the company delivers tailored solutions that enhance efficiency, optimise revenue, and maximise asset value for investors and hotel owners. As a trusted third-party hotel management provider, The First Group Hospitality partners with leading global brands to drive operational excellence and long-term profitability, thanks to expertise spanning property performance optimisation, cost management, and guest experience enhancement. Beyond management, The First Group Hospitality develops and operates a dynamic portfolio of upscale hotels, residences, and award-winning restaurants, creating high-value hospitality assets that stand out in the market.

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Job Description

The Chief Accountant is responsible for managing and overseeing all hotel accounting functions to ensure accurate, timely, and compliant financial reporting. This role leads and supervises the finance team, manages day-to-day accounting operations, ensures compliance with corporate policies and UAE accounting standards, and provides strategic financial analysis to support operational efficiency, effective cost control, and revenue optimization.

Financial Operations & Accounting

• Oversee the accurate recording and processing of all financial transactions in accordance with hotel policies and procedures.

• Review and authorize all journal vouchers prior to posting.

• Ensure all balance sheet accounts are accurately reconciled, reviewed, and signed off by the 15th of each month.

• Verify the accuracy of guest ledger, deposit ledger, and city ledger balances.

• Control and reconcile house fund receipts and general ledger balances.

• Monitor unclaimed wages and salaries and ensure timely follow-up.

• Maintain and update insurance registers, prepaid expenses, deferred charges, and deferred income schedules.

• Verify daily banking transactions and complete timely bank reconciliations.

• Assist the Cluster Financial Controller with month-end Profit & Loss reporting, forecasting, and annual budgeting.

Internal Controls & Compliance

• Establish and maintain effective internal controls and audit procedures to safeguard hotel assets and revenues.

• Ensure compliance with UAE laws, tax regulations, and corporate accounting policies.

• Oversee the month-end closing process and ensure timely submission of financial reports.

• Ensure all hotel licenses, permits, and insurance policies are valid, renewed on time, and properly recorded.

Communication & Collaboration

• Maintain effective communication with all finance team members and other departments.

• Participate actively in Hotel Management, Heads of Department, and departmental meetings.

• Provide timely updates to the Cluster Financial Controller and General Manager on financial issues, irregularities, and operational risks.

• Coordinate with internal and external auditors, ensuring complete documentation and resolution of audit findings.

Operational Responsibilities

• Ensure smooth and efficient operation of the finance department through effective organization and administration.

• Maintain a professional, clean, and well-organized work environment.

• Demonstrate flexibility in working hours to support uninterrupted hotel operations.

People Management & Additional Responsibilities

• Prepare departmental expense budgets and monitor performance against approved budgets.

• Ensure payroll processing, leave management, public holidays, and lieu days are accurately handled and submitted on time.

• Mentor, train, and develop finance team members to enhance performance and career growth.

• Ensure all direct reports have clear, actionable personal development plans aligned with departmental objectives.

Desired Skill & Expertise

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• Sound knowledge of hotel applications-SUN; Opera; Micros; FMC is mandatory
• Advance MS skills (specifically MS Excel)
• Professional accounting certification such as CA, ACCA, CPA, or CMA is preferred.
• Minimum 5–7 years of progressive accounting experience, preferably within the hospitality or hotel industry.
• Prior experience in a Chief Accountant or senior accounting role in a hotel environment is highly desirable.
• Strong experience with month-end closing, budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.
• Strong knowledge of UAE accounting standards, tax regulations, and internal control practices.
• Hands-on experience with hotel accounting systems and ERP platforms.