Accounts manager-Freight forwarding

Job Title: Accounts Manager – Dubai Operations

Location: Chennai, India Business: Freight Forwarding & Customs Clearance Reporting To: Finance Head / Management

Job Summary

We are looking for an experienced Accounts Manager to manage the end-to-end accounting, compliance, and financial reporting for our Dubai (UAE) freight forwarding and customs clearance operations, while being based in Chennai. The role requires strong knowledge of UAE accounting practices, VAT compliance, and logistics industry accounting.

Key Responsibilities Accounting & Financial Operations

Handle complete accounting for Dubai operations, including:

Accounts payable & receivable

General ledger management

Bank reconciliations

Record and verify freight invoices, customs duty, port charges, airline/shipping line bills, and local vendor costs

Maintain job-wise costing, profitability analysis, and margin tracking

Handle inter-company accounting and reconciliations (India–UAE, if applicable)

VAT & UAE Compliance

Ensure full UAE VAT compliance

Prepare and file VAT returns accurately and within deadlines

Maintain VAT documentation and support VAT audits

Coordinate with UAE-based consultants, auditors, and tax advisors

Receivables & Payables Management

Monitor customer receivables, ageing, and credit limits for Dubai clients

Coordinate with operations and sales teams for timely collections

Manage vendor payments, reconciliations, and settlement schedules

Track advances, deposits, and duty payments

MIS & Reporting

Prepare monthly MIS reports for management, including:

Revenue vs cost analysis

Job-wise profitability

Outstanding receivables & payables

Cash flow statements

Support management with cost control insights and financial planning

Audit & Controls

Support internal and external audits (India & UAE)

Ensure compliance with internal controls and accounting policies

Maintain accurate records and documentation for statutory and management reviews

Key Requirements Education & Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Commerce, Accounting, or Finance

Professional qualification (CMA) is an added advantage

Experience

5–8 years of accounting experience

3+ years in freight forwarding, logistics, or customs clearance accounting

Hands-on experience handling UAE / Dubai accounts from India

Experience working with multiple currencies (AED & INR)

Technical Skills

Strong knowledge of UAE VAT regulations

Experience with accounting software such as Logisys, Cargonet or similar ERP

Strong proficiency in Excel (MIS, reconciliations, reporting)

Industry Knowledge (Must-Have)

Freight forwarding billing structures (Air, Sea, LCL/FCL)

Customs clearance charges & duty accounting

Port, airline, shipping line, and transporter reconciliations

Key Competencies

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

High attention to detail and accuracy

Ability to work independently with remote stakeholders

Strong coordination with operations, sales, and overseas teams

Ability to meet strict deadlines

What We Offer

Competitive compensation based on experience

Stable, long-term role in a growing logistics organization

Exposure to international accounting & compliance

Chennai-based role handling overseas operations