Job Description

Post Number
8032038 (ITS 9026)
Faculty/Department
University of the Western Cape -> Finance & Services -> Finance (Management)
Type of Position
Permanent - Full Time
Length of Contract Period
Location
Main Campus - Bellville, WC ZA (Primary)

Closing Date
29/9/2025

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

Degree in Finance/Accounting or equivalent Chartered Accountant (SA) Proven track record 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. In your application, you are encouraged to highlight your strengths and include anything else you deem exceptional and outstanding to be considered by the selection panel. In addition, please attach a cover letter motivating your suitability, a detailed curriculum vitae including contact details of three referees, and your highest qualification to your online profile.
To be considered for this vacancy, you must click on the Apply for this Job link below or apply directly via UWC Careers at https://uwc.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/JobSearch/viewAll. For any queries, please contact the Human Resources Department at +27 21 959 4063/9763/9708/3551/3756 or email: e-recruitment@uwc.ac.za.
DISCLAIMER: By applying for the position, you consent to the University sharing your application, including curriculum vitae, with University stakeholders to process the application. In line with the University's commitment to diversifying its workforce, preference will be given to suitably qualified applicants in line with our Employment Equity Targets. The official retirement age at UWC is 65 years. The University reserves the right to not make an appointment, make an appointment at a different level, seek additional candidates and may conduct competency assessments.