Chief Financial Officer (RF: B780) - (1486) at University of Venda

Purpose of position

• To provide effective professional leadership and ensure the establishment and implementation of sound financial management, accounting, supply chain, internal control systems, and compliance with relevant legislative requirements, thereby significantly impacting the university’s financial health and aligning with its strategic goals. In pursuit of the university’s transformation objectives, preference will be given to female candidates.
• The Chief Financial Officer, a pivotal role in our institution, reports to the Vice Chancellor & Principal and is accountable for the financial sustainability of the university and managing the University’s financial affairs. The CFO is an integral part of the Executive Management Committee.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and inspire the finance team, ensuring alignment with the university’s strategic direction.
• Create positive stakeholder relationships.
• Contribute to the development of strategic and annual performance plans, including coordinating, analysing, and advising.
• Compile and submit financial statements, management accounts, and compliance reports to the Executive Management Committee and the Council.
• Review and manage the finalisation of the annual financial statements.
• Manage the University budgeting process in line with the strategic priorities.
• Develop and implement financial policies, procedures, and systems, including payroll, debtors, supply chain, treasury, and financial aid.
• Establish, implement, and monitor financial management systems.
• Ensure the effective, efficient, economical, and transparent use of financial and other resources.
• Ensure compliance with supply chain management prescripts and strengthen controls.
• Serve as the primary contact for external auditors and coordinate audit activities.
• Continuously improve financial management processes, ensuring sound governance and compliance.
• As the senior finance business partner, the CFO advises the executive and the rest of the University’s stakeholders on financial matters.
• Create a high-performance culture through continuous development and training.

Minimum Requirements

• NQF 8 Qualification in Accounting/Finance or equivalent.
• Chartered Accountant (CA(SA)), Certified Chartered Accountant (ACCA), or Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) qualifications.
• Minimum 10 years experience in a finance environment with 5 years at the Senior Management level in finance.
• Practical IFRS and group reporting experience.
• Senior Management role including staff supervision, budgeting, and management responsibility.

Additional Requirements

• Previous experience as a CFO or in a senior financial leadership role within the higher education sector or a large organisation would be an advantage.
• A blend of technical expertise and strategic vision, with an appetite for hands-on management when needed.
• A Master’s degree would be an advantage.

Competencies (Knowledge, Skills, and Attributes)

• Commercial Acumen.
• Strong data analysis and interpretation skills.
• Proven track record in financial management at a senior level.
• Ability to implement internal systems of controls to ensure sound financial

Management.

• Ability to communicate effectively with all Stakeholders, Management, Executive, Council, etc.
• Budgeting and planning skills.
• Effective communication and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to write financial reports and produce supporting documentation.
• Team builder with interpersonal skills.
• Strategic acumen.
• Change management skills.
• Well-organised and efficient.
• Honesty and a high level of integrity.
• Professional written and oral communication skills.
• Strategic thinking, planning, and creative problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work under pressure.
• Ability to collaborate with senior management to organise, plan, and achieve University financial goals.
• Advanced proficiency in financial software and Excel.