Manager - Financial Control

This role is focused on maintaining the accuracy, compliance, and integrity of Sundry General Ledgers (GLs) and Internal Accounts from a financial reporting perspective. The incumbent will conduct monthly variance analyses, manage escalation and exception processes, and critically review Sundry Accounts to minimize financial risks. Additionally, the role involves overseeing key financial and internal control functions, including the preparation and management of Group-level Non-Performing Loan (NPL) classified advances, provisions, and IFRS 9 Expected Credit Loss (ECL) calculations.

Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct periodic reviews of Sundry GLs and Internal Accounts to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance with accounting standards and internal policies.
- Review and submit periodic Sundry Account reports, providing detailed insights, variance explanations, and recommendations for improvement.
- Perform comprehensive monthly variance analysis for Sundry GLs and Internal Accounts, promptly identifying deviations from expected performance.
- Critically review, maintain, and manage exception reporting of MB Group Sundry Accounts in the Oracle system, specifically for UAE branches, while coordinating with subsidiary companies and overseas branches to minimize financial risk or loss.
- Oversee financial and internal control functions such as monitoring monthly reverse balances, abnormal balances, mismatch balances, GL subsidiary differences, and business purpose codes. Manage month-end closing activities, including preparation and submission of post-closing adjustments.
- Assist in monitoring charge-off and write-off accounts in accordance with bank policies, coordinating with relevant business units and reporting on recoveries of written-off accounts.
- Ensure timely reconciliation and clearance of outstanding entries in Nostro Mirror accounts for UAE operations.
- Manage access review functions for various systems and processes within the financial reporting unit.
- Define, update, and maintain Service Level Agreements (SLA), Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), and Application Process and Procedure Manuals (APPM) in alignment with bank policies.
- Handle exception management in accordance with the Governance Framework.
- Collaborate extensively with MB UAE branches, head office departments, subsidiaries, overseas branches, internal and external auditors, and other bank units to ensure smooth financial operations and compliance.

Problem Solving and Decision Making:
- Analyze large volumes of financial data to identify patterns and isolate root causes of discrepancies or anomalies in Sundry GLs and Internal Accounts.
- Evaluate various solutions to resolve account discrepancies or control issues, balancing short-term fixes with long-term risk mitigation strategies.
- Apply root cause analysis techniques to address mismatches, abnormal balances, and other financial control challenges.
- Manage high-pressure situations such as audit queries or reporting deadlines with composure and efficiency.
- Make informed decisions that prioritize accuracy and timeliness to minimize financial risks.
- Work collaboratively with internal teams (operations, risk, compliance) and external auditors to resolve data discrepancies and conflicts.

Required Qualifications:
- Chartered Accountant (CA), ACCA, CPA, or an equivalent professional qualification is mandatory.
- Minimum of 6 to 7 years of experience in financial reporting, accounting, or internal controls, preferably within the banking or financial services sector.
- Proven expertise in managing General Ledger accounts, variance analysis, and financial controls within a large organization.

Technical Skills:
- Strong knowledge of IFRS and regulatory reporting standards relevant to the banking industry.
- Expertise in financial analysis, reconciliations, and exception management.
- Proficiency in core banking systems, accounting software, and advanced Microsoft Excel functionalities.
- Familiarity with internal controls over financial reporting (ICFR) frameworks.

This position demands a detail-oriented professional capable of working under pressure while maintaining high standards of accuracy and compliance. The role offers an opportunity to contribute significantly to the financial integrity and risk management of a leading banking institution.