Chief Financial Officer, Middle East

Responsibilities

• Serve as senior finance leader and trusted advisor to regional CEOs and leadership
• Lead regional finance function; manage day-to-day accounting, reporting and controls across UAE and Saudi operations
• Own budgeting, rolling forecasts, FP&A and management reporting
• Drive cashflow, working capital and collections strategies; manage banking and FX exposure
• Support client pricing, contract structuring and commercial negotiations
• Ensure timely financial reporting in accordance with US GAAP and local FRS; manage audits
• Oversee taxation, compliance and coordinate with regional tax teams
• Identify margin issues, propose remediation and enable profitable client outcomes
• Build and coach a high-performing finance team (7–8 staff; 2–3 direct reports)

Requirements

• Accounting degree
• Professional qualification
• 15+ years
• Managerial experience
• US GAAP
• FP&A
• Cashflow management
• Tax compliance
• Client finance
• Commercial acumen
• Stakeholder relations
• Strong leadership

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in multi-market Middle East operations (UAE/Saudi)
• Background in agency, professional services or client-facing finance
• Proven record negotiating with procurement and clients
• Experience implementing finance systems and controls
• Excellent communication and business partnering skills

About the Company

Edelman is a global communications firm partnering with businesses and organisations to evolve, promote and protect brands and reputations. The firm employs thousands across more than 60 offices worldwide and includes specialty companies such as Edelman Data & Intelligence (DxI) and United Entertainment Group. Edelman emphasizes high standards of reporting, integrity and collaborative leadership.