Principal Accountant

Here at The Exploration Company, we are developing, producing, and operating Nyx, a modular and reusable space orbital vehicle that can eventually be refuelled in orbit and that can carry cargo - and potentially humans in the longer run. We are seeking an accomplished Principal Accountant to join our dynamic Accounting team. In this pivotal role, you will drive essential financial operations including investor reporting, financial statement preparation, audit coordination, process optimisation, and documentation enhancement while leading critical strategic initiatives. If you thrive in the fast-paced, innovative environment of a growing startup, we would love to connect with you.
Skills and experience required: Financial Reporting & Compliance

• Own and manage the monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close process
• Ensure compliance with accounting standards (e.g., IFRS/GAAP) and regulatory requirements for the UAE, US and Europe.
• Liaise with external auditors and tax advisors.
• Reporting to Head of accounting for consolidation purposes.

Systems & Processes

• Implement and optimize accounting systems and tools to support automation and efficiency.
• Establish scalable processes and internal controls to manage risk and support decision-making

Business Partnership

• Collaborate with Engineering, operations, legal, and other stakeholders to align accounting with business strategy
• Support budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning with accurate data and insights

Strategic Projects

• Support strategic finance initiatives such as international expansion
• Drive continuous improvement across the accounting and finance function

Team Building

• You will be part of a small, high-performing finance team where agility, ownership, and collaboration are key. Working closely with cross-functional stakeholders and reporting directly to the Head of Accounting
• Play a hands-on role in day-to-day accounting operations while also contributing to process improvements and scaling initiatives.
• Your work will have immediate impact, and you’ll gain exposure to a wide range of accounting and finance functions.

This is an ideal opportunity for someone who thrives in dynamic settings, enjoys rolling up their sleeves, and is eager to grow alongside a scaling business. Requirements

• Proven experience (5+ years) in accounting, with at least 3 years in a leadership role
• Deep knowledge of IFRS or GAAP, internal controls, and financial compliance
• Experience in a scaling or high-growth company (e.g., startup, scaleup, or PE-backed)
• Hands-on systems experience (e.g., NetSuite, Xero, QuickBooks, or similar ERP)
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, ambiguous, and evolving environment
• Previous Audit experience in the Big 4 companies.
• English speaking

Why you should join us! What makes us special here at The Exploration Company and why we think you will enjoy working here is:

• We’re Agile - we make decisions fast whilst keeping our goals and systems in mind
• We’re Open and Collaborative - we are transparent about risks and obstacles, so that we can cooperate to overcome them
• We have a lot of Fun - we refuel our energy knowing we are democratising space. It’s a wonderful and rare opportunity, are YOU up for the challenge?

We'd love to hear from you if you wish to be a part of our journey. Please submit your CV now for immediate consideration and we will be in touch shortly.

The Exploration Company is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status or disability status. Relocation assistance is provided for those willing to relocate including visa sponsorship where applicable.