Head of Accounts and Finance

About the role

The Head of Accounts and Finance will lead the finance function of an airline, ensuring accurate reporting, effective cost management and compliance with international standards. This senior position reports to the CFO and plays a key role in strategic financial planning and aviation‑related transactions.

Key responsibilities

• Lead day‑to‑day operations of the Accounts & Finance department.
• Prepare monthly, quarterly and annual financial statements on time.
• Oversee general ledger, AP, AR, payroll and fixed‑asset accounting.
• Monitor airline operating costs such as fuel, airport charges, navigation fees, ground handling, maintenance and lease payments.
• Develop annual budgets, forecasts and cash‑flow projections; analyse variances.
• Manage treasury activities, banking relationships and cash‑flow requirements.
• Ensure timely reconciliation of bank, vendor and customer accounts.
• Supervise revenue accounting, ticket‑sales reconciliation, BSP settlements and other aviation‑specific transactions.
• Oversee aircraft lease obligations and covenant compliance.
• Ensure compliance with IFRS, company policies and regulatory requirements.
• Coordinate internal and external audits and implement recommendations.
• Handle tax compliance, statutory filings and liaison with tax authorities.
• Develop and maintain financial controls, policies and procedures.
• Support the CFO in financial planning, business analysis and strategic decisions.
• Assist in aircraft acquisition, lease evaluation, financing and due‑diligence.
• Prepare management reports, dashboards, KPIs and performance presentations.
• Lead, mentor and develop the finance team.
• Support ERP implementation, automation and continuous improvement projects.

Required profile

• ACCA qualified (membership completed) – mandatory.
• 7–10 years progressive experience in Accounts & Finance.
• 3–5 years experience in aviation, airline, airport, aircraft leasing or related services.
• Strong knowledge of airline accounting, revenue accounting, lease accounting, budgeting, treasury management and financial reporting.
• Sound understanding of IFRS and aviation industry financial practices.
• Proven ability to work in a fast‑paced airline environment and meet strict reporting deadlines.

Required skills

• ACCA qualification.
• Proficiency with ERP systems.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
• Experience with financial reporting tools.
• Knowledge of IFRS standards.