Job Description

The Public Health, Societies and Belonging (PHSB) research division within the HSRC employs a multi-disciplinary group of social scientists and public health specialists who conduct numerous empirical and policy-related studies each year, three-quarters of which are donor-funded. The PHSB division conducts transdisciplinary, intersectional, policy and programme-relevant research to improve health, well-being and promote a socially just and cohesive society.
HSRC has offices in Pretoria, Cape Town and Pietermaritzburg. The division seeks to appoint a Divisional Manager: Finance to join a dynamic team in the PHSB Division.
DIVISIONAL MANAGER: FINANCE
Permanent position
Reference: DMF PHSB 2026
Minimum Requirements
The candidate must have:

• A relevant degree in Finance or Accounting, or related fields or any relevant qualification at NQF level 7 as recognised by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
• A minimum of 8 - 10 years of relevant financial management experience. A sound understanding of the financial regulatory system in the public sector, PFMA.
• Experience in managing or coordinating internal and external audit processes.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, and the ability to coordinate and capacitate staff.
• Demonstrable high proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other accounting tools.
• Must have intellectual and personal integrity, with a well-developed work ethic and drive, and an aptitude for innovation and attention to detail.
• Should be able to work under pressure, and after hours when required. Must be able to work proactively and independently.

Additional Requirements

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, and the ability to coordinate and capacitate staff.
• Strong user-orientation, ability to prioritise, and an understanding of the research environment.
• Confidence with spoken and written English, and able to train others.

• An auditing background will be an added advantage.

Duties & Responsibilities
The Divisional Manager: Finance will manage and control the development, implementation and maintenance of all financial processes within the division as determined by the strategic objectives and the mandate of the HSRC and contribute to the sustainable growth of the PHSB division

• Oversee and manage the division's financial processes, including policies, controls, systems, workflows, and tasks, to ensure efficiency, effectiveness, and full compliance with the PFMA and HSRC policies and procedures.
• Provide financial support during proposal development, including the preparation of budgets and expenditure forecasts, in line with the requirements of local and international funding agencies.
• Prepare accurate and compliant financial reports at both divisional and project levels, in accordance with internal policies, procedures, and audit requirements.
• Conduct financial evaluations, analyses, risk assessments, and financing activities for new projects and opportunities across all phases of project development, from inception to financial close.
• Ensure the accuracy, timeliness, and integrity of all financial information reported to internal and external stakeholders.
• Manage and monitor effective cash flow planning and control.
• Prepare, review, and present monthly management accounts and other financial reports for internal and external stakeholders.
• Coordinate and manage month-end and year-end financial processes and deadlines for the division, including accruals, journals, and leave management.
• Build financial capability among internal stakeholders by explaining relevant financial methodologies, processes, and systems as they relate to the research lifecycle.
• Provide guidance and advisory support on tender and proposal processes to secure the necessary financial resources for research projects.

Skills Required