Senior Manager: External Reporting & Taxation (P6) (Finance: Financial Governance & Control: Financial Accounting) at University of Johannesburg

Job Specification:

• UJ is keen to interview a dynamic, strategically minded individual with the ability to function in the Reporting and Taxation unit. The primary responsibility of the Senior Manager is to perform external financial reporting, taxation, maintenance of the general ledger and trial balance, selected reconciliations, management of external audit process, maintenance of the chart of accounts, processing of manual journal entries and oversee the accounting for the Fixed Assets of the university according to IFRS and best practice. The key responsibility is to compile external financial reports in accordance with statutory professional and accounting standards and prescriptions within UJ in support of sound financial management practices and the achievement of the objectives of the division and to support the Director: Financial Accounting to achieve the goals of the Department.
• This unit is regarded as a centre of excellence with the divisional service delivery operating model, responsible for compilation of external financial reports in accordance with statutory professional and accounting standards and prescripts. Ensuring that the group remains tax compliant and advise various stakeholders on applying tax guidelines. This function is a critical finance function that enables the finance department to develop its long-term financial strategy and policies through the implementation of sound financial controls and adhering to our standard operating procedures.
• Attributes associated with senior management level are critical to this role such as analytical and critical thinking, problem solving, relationship management, implementing appropriate oversight and instillation of controls. Continuously Improve the Reporting and Taxation function activities and mature processes to facilitate attainment of strategic objectives efficiently and effectively.

Responsibilities:

• Review and produce financial statements at least on a quarterly basis.
• Prepare the UJ Annual Financial Statements in accordance with the requirements of IFRS and the relevant DHET policy and guiding documents.
• Manage the Group statutory audit process and submit financial statements for review to the Director: Financial Accounting.
• Oversee the filing of the AFS per DHET filing requirements for half year and final submission timelines.
• Attend to and resolve financial queries pertaining to the trial balance and financial statements.
• Oversee the assets accounting processes and transactions by ensuring that these are following the technical accounting standards and best practice.
• Keep abreast of changes in the accounting and financial regulation and legislation and ensure the University is ready for implementation.
• Prepare financial analysis narrative report for review by the Director.
• Review the financial reports of UJ entities on a monthly/quarterly/annual basis ensuring the University meets all its statutory and compliance obligations, including statutory accounting and tax issues.
• Support Finance Division with technical IFRS and Taxation queries.
• Responsible for continuous process improvement aligned with being efficient and adopting best practice.
• Oversee the processing of manual journals, monthly review of all journals and ensure compliance with policy and procedures.
• Manage the CoA/TB coordination and perform reconciliation on GL accounts that are specific to the business unit directly related to GL and/or Reporting.
• Manage month end reporting opening and closing periods for accurate reporting.
• Identify COA irregularities and incorrect use of accounts and action ratification by all finance colleagues.
• Liaises with stakeholders within the Finance division and within other Faculties/Support Departments on their specific reporting requirements.
• Liaise with external auditors and other stakeholders associated with reporting process.
• Review and submit statistical data for external reporting to the Reserve Bank, Statistics South Africa, and Department of Higher Education.
• Review and submit financial performance indicators to the Department of Education for comparative purposes.
• Review and consolidate information for the timeous and accurate submission of statutory reports to the relevant authorities and governing bodies.
• Ensuring the university meets all its statutory and compliance obligations.
• Implement Group Tax guidelines.
• Analyze technical financial problems and provide professional assistance and advice concerning their solutions.
• Manage and develop staff within the unit.
• Ensure compliance with relevant legislation and regulations.

Minimum requirements

• Registration with SAICA as a Chartered Accountant (SA) with audit and assurance experience.
• Honours in Bachelor of Commerce in Finance or Accounting (or equivalent qualification).
• Strong understanding of External reporting management systems, processes, financial modelling, and Microsoft Excel.
• Five (5) years' managerial experience in a position with a medium to a large staff contingent.
• Proven experience with MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Comprehension and ability across key reporting and taxation function activities

Competencies and Behavioral Attributes:

• Analytical Skills: Proficiency in financial analysis, forecasting methods, and data analysis to inform strategic decision-making.
• Financial Expertise: Deep understanding of accounting principles, best practices, and relevant regulations.
• Communication Skills: Ability to explain complex financial information in clear and concise language.
• Critical Thinking: Strong critical thinking skills to understand complex financial transactions and make informed decisions.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to navigate complex situations and utilize expertise to advance the University's goals.
• Data Management: Adept at handling large amounts of data, organizing it for easy access, and keeping it accurate and up to date.
• Compliance: Commitment to staying informed about relevant laws and regulations.
• Interpersonal Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, along with strong computer literacy.
• Planning & Organization: Proven planning and organizational abilities.
• Business Acumen: Strong business acumen to understand the financial implications of decisions.
• Collaboration & Conflict Resolution: Ability to work collaboratively, manage conflicts effectively, and achieve positive outcomes.
• Strategic & Operational Thinking: Ability to think strategically and operationally, make quick decisions, and adapt to changing situations.
• Delegation & Accountability: Ability to delegate tasks, take ownership of work, and monitor performance for improvement.
• Relationship Management: Ability to build and maintain positive relationships with various stakeholders.

Apply by: 20 June 2025