Director: Financial & Management Accounting at University of the Western Cape/Universiteit van Wes-Kaapland

Role Clarification & Key Performance Areas
 

As the Director: Financial & Management Accounting, you will be at the forefront of our financial operations, leading a team of skilled professionals to design and execute financial and budgeting strategies that drive informed decision-making. You play a pivotal role in shaping our budgeting processes, collaborating cross-functionally, optimise resource allocation and contributing to the long-term financial sustainability of the University.

Reporting to the Executive Director : Finance & Services , the key responsibilities will include:

• Strategically manage the financial responsibilities of the University and its subsidiaries that achieves financial sustainability
• Develop and implement comprehensive financial reporting frameworks that provide accurate and timely insights to support decision making
• Management of the university's reporting and budgeting functions. Lead the annual budgeting process, working closely with senior management to ensure alignment with strategic objectives
• Monitor financial performance against budgets and forecasts, identifying areas for optimisation and improvement
• Collaborate with stakeholders to analyse financial data and provide strategic recommendations for cost efficiency and revenue enhancement
• Stay abreast of industry trends, regulatory changes, and best practices to continuously refine financial reporting and budgeting processes
• Direct management, development and motivation of the financial team
• Streamline business processes and introduce new systems that will enhance competitive edge and industry best practice
• Management of Grants and Contracts and operationalise the smooth running of all activities that includes accounting, reporting, compliance and contract management
• Management of working capital, investments, fixed assets, reserves, loans, etc.
• Management of compliance with legislation, regulations and IFRS
• Reporting on financial matters to various management and governance structures
• Design of policies, standard operating procedures and business processes that achieves efficiency and effectiveness
• Foster relationships with stakeholders and represent the Department of Finance and the University on various platforms
• Management of all audits and regulatory requirements
• Implement and facilitate policy and business processes that support the enhancement of University revenue and cost control
• Participate in various leadership and stakeholder engagements.

Minimum Requirements

• Honour’s degree in Finance/Accounting or equivalent
• Chartered Accountant (SA)
• Proven track record of a minimum of five years in a management role
• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to translate complex financial data into actionable insights
• Strong leadership and team management experience, with the ability to inspire and motivate your team to achieve their best
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.