Chief Officer (Post Level 8) at University of the Free State

Duties and responsibilities:

• Manage the NSFAS/DHET General fund and NSFAS pre-funders. 
• Prepare, verify, and submit required templates to NSFAS (e.g., academic data, registration data). 
• Review and validate funded lists for accuracy by resolving items on the exception report before allocations. 
• Ensure the accuracy and timely processing of allowance payments. 
• Allocate, adjust, disburse, and cancel bursary amounts as required. 
• Manage the student transport allowance process. 
• Oversee the private accommodation application and approval process. 
• Oversee and manage refund applications. 
• Contribute to the regular review and improvement of Financial Aid information and related documentation. 
• Assist in removing administrative blocks where necessary. 
• Communicate important updates and instructions to students. 
• Manage credit processes, including returning unspent amounts to NSFAS. 
• Assist in compiling and finalising the NSFAS close-out report. 
• Perform reconciliations of entities, funds, and payments. 
• Set up and maintain fiscal amounts on bursary funds, including amendments and reconciliations. 
• Conduct annual setup processes. 
• Create new item types and entities for newly established funds. 
• Assist with statistical reports to senior management, NSFAS, DHET, and other stakeholders. 
• Implement risk management through reconciliation processes and accuracy controls. 
• Supervise, mentor, and train team members. 
• Develop, discuss, and submit performance reviews, work environment assessments, and improvement plans for personnel. 
• Address and resolve escalated enquiries from students, parents, guardians, and external sponsors. 
• Recommend and prepare system improvements to streamline processes. 
• Assist with internal and external audit processes. 
• Participate in the recruitment process for permanent and temporary staff. 
• Attend meetings and provide feedback to relevant staff members. 
• Represent the institution at NSFAS workshops and communicate key updates to management and staff.

Inherent requirements:

• Bachelor’s or B. Tech degree on NQF Level 7 with Accounting on third year level (attach academic record). 
• A minimum of three (3) years' relevant financial experience.

Recommendations:

• Knowledge of PeopleSoft 
• Work in the Higher Education context, especially Financial Aid.