Senior Manager: Forensic Investigations at North West University

Job description

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION

• To lead and manage the forensic investigation function by initiating, planning, executing, and reporting on complex forensic investigations relating to fraud, corruption, financial misconduct, irregularities, and unethical conduct.
• The incumbent will be required to ensure compliance with applicable legislation and standards and to mitigate fraud risk and promote ethical governance

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Forensic Investigation Management
• Plan and manage forensic investigations into allegations of fraud, corruption, financial misconduct, and other irregularities.
• Lead the development and implementation of investigative procedures and methodologies.
• Collect, preserve, and analyse evidence in accordance with legislative and ethical standards.
• Conduct interviews, forensic analysis, and prepare detailed investigative reports for internal and/or external use (including for disciplinary, civil or criminal proceedings).
• Report on the progress of investigations with Council Committees as required.

Governance and Legal Compliance

• Ensure all investigations are compliant with applicable legislation, regulations, policies and procedures, etc.
• Liaise with law enforcement (e.g. SAPS, Hawks, etc.), prosecutorial authorities, and regulatory bodies when necessary

Fraud Risk Management

• Identify fraud trends and emerging risks and recommend controls to mitigate exposure.
• Assist in prevention of fraud, ethics awareness, and whistleblowing initiatives.
• Advice on internal controls and governance enhancements based on investigation findings

Reporting and Stakeholder Management

• Draft clear, concise, and legally sound reports for executive management, audit and risk committee, Council, and external authorities.
• Manage stakeholder relationships including internal departments, legal, people and culture, external auditors, law enforcement, and Council Committees.
• Present findings and recommendations to internal stakeholders and governance structures.

Team and Resource Management

• Manage a team of investigators and forensic analysts (where applicable), including external service providers.
• Mentor and provide professional guidance to junior investigators.
• Ensure proper resource planning and manage service providers (e.g., forensic consultants or digital specialists).

Minimum requirements

• A postgraduate qualification in Forensic Accounting, Accounting and Auditing, Law, Criminal Justice, or related field (NQF level 8).
• A minimum of six (6) to eight (8) years’ specialist experience in forensic investigations.
• Experience in leading complex investigations in a regulated environment.
• Experience in working with or within law enforcement, audit, legal, or regulatory bodies.
• Registration as a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) or Certified Forensic Practitioner (ICFP).
• Registration with the SA Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) / the Legal Practices Council (LPC) or other related professional bodies.

ADDED ADVANTAGES:

• Admission as an Attorney or Advocate.      

KEY FUNCTIONAL/TECHNICAL AND BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES:

• Strong forensic and analytical skills.
• Knowledge of forensic methodologies and legislation.
• Ethical integrity and discretion.
• Excellent interviewing and evidence gathering skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication.
• Legal acumen and understanding of criminal/civil procedures.
• Report writing and presentation skills.
• Project and case management.
• Emotional intelligence and resilience.
• Leading evidence in disciplinary and criminal/civil matters, where applicable.

REMUNERATION:

• The annual total remuneration package will be commensurate with the level of appointment as advertised and in line with the NWU policy guidelines.

CLOSING DATE: 11 August 2025