VP Finance

About RUA RUA is a forward-thinking institution for cross-cultural arts education and creative innovation in the Middle East that fosters bold ideas that inspire progress and transform society by cultivating industry and academic collaboration and rethinking creative education, all while creating a space for global ideas to flourish in a culturally inspiring environment. • Our Vision • To be an inspiring beacon of knowledge for future generations, integrating culture and arts, empowering students to discover passions and develop talents while fostering creativity and cultural exchange. • Our Mission • To cultivate an innovative educational environment in culture and arts, delivering cutting-edge programs that foster cultural and artistic engagement, enriching both the Saudi and global communities. • Our Aspirations • The leading cultural university across the Middle East and North Africa. • Ranked among top 50 universities worldwide specializing in cultural education. • A global hub for cultural education and knowledge exchange. Key Responsibilities: General Responsibilities -Provide visibility into the financial metrics and status of the University to the President and Board of Trustees and implement the Board’s decisions through the establishment of policies, procedures, and guidelines. -Represent the University to external stakeholders (auditors, regulatory authorities, donors etc.) Strategic Responsibilities -Advise the President and Board of Trustees on all fiscal matters, and serve as the steward for all financial decisions of the University -Ensure financial sustainability and well-being of the University and Academies by exercising control over University budgets and program fee structures, providing timely reporting, monitoring cash flow, safeguarding all financial assets of the University and preventing institutional risk and liability -Establish strong fiscal processes and policies that ensure long-term economic sustainability of the University and promote a culture of responsible fiscal operations Operational Responsibilities -Lead the annual operating and capital budget/planning processes, financial risk assessment, financial reporting and analysis, accounting operations, and service delivery for the Finance Department -Direct creation and management of financial systems/procedures, payroll processing, general accounting, interim and year-end closing, working capital management, and annual report finalisation and sign-off -Ensure the accuracy of all fiscal activities including accounting, budgeting, procurement, tax, legal, compliance and financial reporting -Establish a strong controllership and accounting function to ensure timely accounts receivable, accurate payroll/expense operations, proactive investment management and coordination with auditors and other external stakeholders -Set up and maintain digital finance information systems catering to all functions within the Finance Office -Build a robust procurement function, that delivers maximum value to all purchases made by the University -Establish strong processes to ensure legal, statutory, regulatory and tax compliance Skills Requirements: - Proven ability in setting up robust systems and processes in large organisations -Strong experience in managing financial assets and external stakeholders -Proven excellence in organisational management and providing strategic direction -Experience in building and mentoring a high-performing team -Proven ability to develop a strong, long-term financial strategy in line with the vision and mission -Track record of increasing efficiencies, enhancing fiscal sustainability through varied means and generating cost savings Qualifications - 20+ years of experience in a senior finance leadership role, with preferably 10+ years in a reputed institute of higher education -Extensive knowledge and exposure to various sub-functions of finance such as controllership, legal, accounting, fundraising, non-profit etc. -Bachelor’s degree in accounting or financial management. Master’s degree is highly preferred -Strong know-how of systems and tools such as Microsoft Suite, SAP, Finacle etc. Why joining RUA: RUA represents a platform for discovery, a space where talent is nurtured, and a gateway for Saudi art and culture to the world. We welcome you to join us on this exceptional journey. Together, we will shape the ambitious cultural future of the Kingdom and inspire the world. As the first of its kind in the MENA region, RUA serves as a center of creativity, knowledge, and innovation, contributing to shaping the future of Saudi Arabia’s cultural ecosystem and creative economy, driving the growth of Saudi Arabia’s cultural sector in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030. Show more Show less