The Role

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Client Accounting Finance Controller to lead and manage the accounting teams who support the Property Management function across the Middle East. This role will be responsible for delivering high-quality client accounting services, financial reporting, and compliance with local regulations. The successful candidate will be a key part of the regional Property Management leadership team and play a vital role in supporting the operational goals of the property management division.

The role will report to the regional Finance Director with a dotted line into the Regional Head of Property Management. It will be based from the Dubai office, overseeing the teams in Sharjah, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Bahrain and Oman.

The function of the role is to manage the client accounting team and ensure that processes and controls are in place and consistent across the Middle East. The role will be responsible to ensure smooth transition and maximise implementation of the new PM system. This role will look work with all head of client accounting teams to improve efficiencies and quality of client deliverables.

Savills is a globally recognised real estate brand and offers the opportunity for growth and development. We are looking for a motivated and professional individual with an interest in benefiting from the support and experience the brand can offer.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and Team Management:

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of client accountants located across various offices in the Middle East.
• Ensure efficient resource allocation, task management, and performance tracking for the regional team.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration, and accountability within the team to improve quality of service, efficiency and profitability
• Development and ownership of internal budgeting for relevant team resources

Client Accounting Services:

• Oversee the delivery of accurate and timely financial reporting for a portfolio of commercial and residential properties.
• Ensure are client SLA and KPIs are met, across various client portfolios
• Manage service charge reconciliations, rent collection, and accounts payable/receivable functions.
• Monitor debt management to ensure maximum Savills income
• Work closely with property managers to ensure the financial aspects of the property portfolio are effectively managed and meet client expectations.

Financial Reporting and Compliance:

• Ensure that all financial reporting is completed in compliance with local regulations and company policies.
• Lead the regional accounting team in completing monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements for internal and external clients.
• Coordinate internal and external audits, ensuring all documentation and reporting is accurate and readily available.
• Stay updated with local accounting standards, tax laws, and regulations across the Middle East region and implement suitable procedures to ensure accurate and timely submissions.

Build strong relationships with internal and external auditors, ensuring that that queries are attended to and recommendations adopted promptly

Client Relationship Management:

• Act as the primary point of contact for all client accounting matters within the region, providing proactive and high-quality service.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including clients, property managers, and corporate leadership.

Operational Efficiency:

• Drive efficiencies through process-change and adoption of technology
• Oversee implementation, adoption and continued evolution of new PM System (Yardi) from a client accounting perspective, ensuring consistent usage across the ME business
• Play a proactive role in the design and implementation of client accounting software and systems, ensuring the integrity of client data at all times
• Consider relevance of resource sharing across the ME business

Skills, Knowledge and Experience

Education and Experience:

• Applicants must be a qualified Accountant (CA/ACCA/CPA/CIMA)
• Minimum 8 years’ experience working in a similar function, preferably in the GCC/MEA region, with at least 3 years in a managerial post
• Good knowledge of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and International Accounting Standards
• Proven track record of managing large portfolios of commercial and/or residential properties.

Skills and Competencies:

• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent strategic planning and organizational abilities.
• In-depth knowledge of property management best practices and relevant regulations.
• Strong commercial acumen and experience with budget management.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple priorities.
• A high level of accuracy and attention to detail
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Applications such as Word, Excel and Outlook and accounting software
• Proficient user in PM related systems and software (experience using Yardi highly preferred)

Other Requirements:

• Willingness to travel within the region as required.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.