Job Description

Senior Financial Administrator (2 positions)
Finance Division: Research Finance
The Finance Division invites suitably qualified candidates to join their team.
Main Objectives
The purpose of this job is to support the Manager: Institutes and Contracts office of Research Finance in providing seamless financial administrative processes to support researchers and directors of Institutes and self-funded Units. Aspects would include: -

• Financial administrative support to researchers in academic departments and Institutes, who have been awarded various research grants and project funding.
• Timeous production of accurate financial reports, prepared on the basis on Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (GAAP) and International Accounting Standards (IAS), in accordance with funders specified requirements.
• Supporting the manager by implementing the various funding mechanisms and claiming cycle processes required in managing the various income streams.
• To keep abreast of VAT and Tax legislation, in order to ensure the correct vat treatment of externally funded projects, thereby maximising the cash-flows of research projects.

The Requirements
Grade 12 or equivalent PLUS approximately 4 years' relevant experience, where such experience must include:

• Previous experience in a pressurized accounting administrative environment where there were multiple demands and tight deadlines
• Previous experience in working in a computerized accounting environment
• Previous experience in preparation of financial reports for audit and/or submission to external parties
• Previous experience in research grant financial administration would be an advantage
• Studies towards a post matric or post matric qualification in a relevant field will an advantage

Application Process
It is essential that prospective candidates read the for further information and ensure that all relevant documentation is submitted.
The following documents are required:

• A comprehensive CV which should include reasons for leaving your current and previous jobs and referees who are and/or were your direct line manager, their title, name, designation and contact information which should be at least their contact number and email address.
• Relevant qualifications

• A strong and succinct motivation outlining your interest in the post and suitability relative to the job requirements.

Please note that no hand-written applications will be considered. Your application must be submitted via our website and online recruitment system. Failure to submit all documentation and respond to all the questions asked appropriately will result in an application being disqualified.
Any questions or enquiries regarding the submission of an application please contact 046 603 8753.
Selection Process (provisional date, subject to change):

• Short-listing meeting: TBC.
• The selection process that will be followed for this post will include an assessment and an interview.
• Shortlisted candidates will be informed of the assessment and interview date.

Remuneration per annum (Grade 10):
Basic Pensionable Salary per annum: R348 338
Cost to Company per annum (Approximately): R472 840
All applications will be treated in strict confidence. This post is advertised as a permanent post, but the University may opt to appoint on a fixed-term contract of not less than three years. The University reserves the right not to proceed with the filling of the post. An application in itself does not entitle the applicant to an interview. Employment checks will be conducted on recommended candidates.
Closing Date: 02 October 2025
This advertisement may be closed before the indicated closing date if a high number of applications are received. To ensure your application is considered, please submit it as soon as possible.
If you are not contacted within 30 days from the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
Our core values and principles are the foundation of our commitment to creating a positive, supportive, and enabling environment. These values guide our decisions, actions, and how we engage with each other as we work to achieve our vision and mission.
These values are:
Diversity; Integrity; Respect; Excellence; Collegiality and Compassion
Recognising that diversity is important in achieving excellence. Rhodes University strongly encourages South African members of underrepresented designated groups as well as persons with disabilities to apply. Spouses and partners of existing staff members are also encouraged to apply.
Please note all appointments are made in line with the requirements of the Employment Equity Act of 55 of 1998, as amended, the Immigration Act No. 13 of 2022 and the University's Recruitment and Selection policies.

Skills Required