Finance Manager

Role overview

CESED-Centro de Estudios sobre Seguridad y Drogas is looking for a part-time Finance Manager in Abu Dhabi. The position combines on-site work with the option to handle agreed tasks from home, offering a hybrid working setup.

What you will handle

In this role, you will take ownership of the organization’s daily finance activities. That includes overseeing accounts payable and receivable, keeping the general ledger accurate and up to date, and preparing monthly as well as quarterly financial statements.

You will also help shape and monitor budgets, contribute to grant and project accounting, and ensure that financial processes remain aligned with internal policies and applicable regulations. In addition, you will work with internal teams and outside parties such as auditors and funding partners to support reporting, financial planning, and risk oversight.

The role further involves identifying opportunities to improve finance processes, putting stronger controls in place, and turning financial data into practical insights that support leadership decisions.

Qualifications and background

The ideal candidate should have a solid grounding in accounting and financial management, with hands-on experience in budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting. Experience in grant- or project-based accounting, cost monitoring, and compliance work within research or nonprofit settings will be especially valuable.

You should be comfortable using accounting platforms and spreadsheet tools such as Excel, and capable of working within digital finance systems. A good understanding of financial regulations, internal controls, and audit procedures is also important.

Strong analytical and numerical ability, careful attention to detail, and a problem-solving mindset are essential. The role requires confident written and spoken English; knowledge of additional languages would be an advantage.

Applicants must be able to work both independently and with others in a hybrid environment while balancing several priorities and deadlines. A bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related discipline is required, and a professional qualification such as CPA, ACCA, or CMA would be a plus. Experience in an academic, research, NGO, or policy-oriented environment is preferred.