Senior Accountant

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

Person Profile

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.

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, multi‑cultural environment
• Commitment to confidentiality, data integrity, and ethical conduct
• Willingness to learn and adapt to Qatari regulatory requirements

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 expectations.

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.