Job description

Grant Thornton UAE seeks a Director | External Audit in Dubai to support senior colleagues in preparing audit strategy, manage a portfolio, organize and review work, oversee Managers and Associates, and act as a key client contact while driving business development, strategic initiatives, and innovation. The Audit & Assurance practice serves SMEs, international groups, and listed companies across diverse industries, with market-leading work in Financial Services and PCAOB engagements, including leading the first Middle East unicorn listing on NASDAQ. The Director will work strategically with leadership to grow the business, develop a high-profile market presence in the Public Sector, work toward RI status to sign off audits, manage day-to-day team and portfolio operations on behalf of the Partner, build internal and external networks to support business development, manage a key client portfolio, lead Public Sector client engagements, and agree/negotiate client fees per engagement. The role requires 11+ years of External Audit experience at a top international firm, professional qualification (ACA, CPA, ACCA), extensive post-qualification audit experience across diverse businesses, confidence in IFRS, internal controls, and consolidation of financial statements, a strong network of Public Sector clients in the UAE market, passion for business development and team strategy, significant leadership experience in practice, experience with large audits and complex groups including complex technical matters, strong working knowledge of compliance and regulation, and a proven ability to inspire and develop people.