Job Description

Roles & Responsibilities

Department: Finance Reporting to : Head of Finance Collaborates with: Senior Accounts Officer, HR, Admissions, Procurement, Academic and non-Academic Operations.

The Senior Accountant ensures the accuracy and integrity of ISL Qatar s financial data, strengthening internal controls and supporting informed decision-making across the school. As part of a values-driven, service-oriented environment, the Senior Accountant contributes to reliable financial operations and efficient workflows aligned with ISL Qatar s strategic priorities. This role requires a disciplined, analytical professional who upholds high standards of financial stewardship, confidentiality, and compliance. The Senior Accountant works effectively in a multicultural context, communicates clearly with non-finance colleagues, and drives continuous improvement by identifying efficiencies and advancing financial practices that enhance the school s operational performance.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Reporting and Compliance

• Produce accurate monthly and annual financial statements and supporting schedules to inform leadership decisions.
• Maintain and reconcile the general ledger, ensuring data integrity and timeliness.
• Execute month-end and year-end closing processes with accuracy and consistency.
• Ensure compliance with school policies, IFRS, and Qatari regulations.
• Deliver financial analysis and insights that advance strategic initiatives and schoolwide planning
• Process monthly payroll for WPS and non-WPS staff with accuracy, confidentiality, and full compliance with Qatari Labour Law.
• Verify all payroll inputs, including allowances, deductions, overtime, leave, and contract changes.
• Reconcile payroll records with HR and Finance data to ensure integrity and consistency.
• Submit WPS files in accordance with statutory timelines and banking requirements.
• Resolve payroll-related queries promptly and professionally for both academic and non-academic staff.
• Maintain secure and up-to-date payroll documentation for audit readiness.

Audit and External Reporting

• Prepare documentation for internal and external audits
• Support auditors throughout the audit cycle and follow up on required actions
• Support tax filings and compliance submissions in coordination with the Business Manager

Transaction Processing (AP, AR, GL)

• Support AR processes in collaboration with the Business Manager
• Support AP processing during absence periods and peak workflow
• Enter invoices, journals, and financial transactions accurately
• Verify documentation and ensure adherence to internal control standards

Budget Support and Financial Analysis

• Prepare monthly variance reports and highlight discrepancies
• Recommend corrective actions based on financial findings
• Provide financial insights that support leadership and departmental decision-making
• Contribute to designated strategic initiatives requiring financial input

Internal Controls and Process Improvement

• Strengthen control mechanisms to safeguard assets and protect data integrity
• Recommend workflow enhancements and contribute to SOP updates
• Ensure documentation and processes align with audit and compliance expectation

Cross-Team Collaboration

• Provide timely financial support to Admissions, HR, Procurement, Operations, and academic teams
• Respond to stakeholder inquiries with clarity, accuracy, and professionalism
• Contribute to the goals, efficiency, and service culture of the finance team

Desired Candidate Profile

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance (CPA/ACCA preferred)

5 7 years of progressive accounting experience, ideally in an international school or service-driven organization

Strong experience with audits, GL oversight, AR/AP, and month-end/year-end cycles

Knowledge of IFRS and internal control frameworks

Experience with ERP/accounting systems; advanced Excel skills

Knowledge of Qatari tax regulations (advantage)

Arabic and English bilingual proficiency

Knowledge, Skills and Attributes

• Alignment with ISL Qatar values: Belonging, Integrity, Grit, Kindness
• Strong technical foundation in accounting and financial reporting
• High accuracy and attention to detail, and disciplined follow-through
• Strong analytical, organizational and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to communicate financial information clearly with non-finance stakeholders
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, multicultural environment
• Commitment to confidentiality, data integrity, and ethical conduct
• Willingness to learn and adapt to Qatari regulatory requirements