Chief Financial Officer (CEO), 5-year contract, East London

University of Fort Hare; East London; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 750 000; Full time

Job summary

An educational institution in East London seeks a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for a 5-year contract. The role requires extensive experience in finance, strategic leadership, and a strong grasp of commercial operations. Ideal candidates will have a master's degree or equivalent and at least 10 years of finance experience. Responsibilities include financial strategy, planning, reporting, and team leadership, offering a competitive salary package.

Qualifications

• NQF level 9 qualification such as master’s in business administration or finance.
• Chartered Accountant (SA) or equivalent.
• Minimum of 10 years of working experience in finance.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement financial strategies.
• Lead budgeting and forecasting processes.
• Oversee the accounting function and cash flow management.

Skills

Financial strategy development

Commercial operations understanding

Financial planning and analysis

Financial modelling

Team leadership

Education

NQF level 9 qualification

Chartered Accountant (SA) or equivalent

Job description

2025-11-12 - 2025-12-12

Contractor

EL003168

Business & Management

Finance

Eastern Cape , East London

We are seeking a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for a 5-year contract based in East London, Eastern Cape

Applicants are required to meet the following criteria:

• NQF level 9 qualification such as master’s in business administration or finance OR
• Chartered Accountant (SA) or equivalent
• A minimum of 10 years of working experience in finance of which 5 years must be in a senior leadership role
• Deep understanding of commercial operations and/or business financial turnaround
• Strong ability to link financial strategies to operational and strategic goals
• Expertise in financial planning, forecasting, and analysis
• Strong understanding of activity based and standard costing methods
• Advanced knowledge of accounting principles and regulatory standards & SA Legislation
• Expertise in financial modelling, forecasting, and data analysis

The successful applicant would be responsible for, but not limited to:

• Financial strategy & leadership – develop/implement financial strategies; collaborate and provide financial insight; lead budgeting process; optimize financial performance; implement systems
• Financial planning & analysis – Lead budgeting / forecasting; monitor financial performance and key metrics; analyse cost drivers; evaluate investment projects; drive profitability
• Financial operations & reporting – financial reports; oversee accounting function, tax aspects and cash flow management; working capital requirements; AFS; manage financial operations; drive profitability and scalability
• Risk management/compliance – identify/mitigate financial risks; manage strategies and systems; oversee audits
• Cost & revenue management – monitor/control operating costs; optimize efficiency; analyse cost variances and implement corrective measures; oversee rental income streams; facilitate loan collections
• Team leadership & development – oversee finance team; build/lead supply chain team; mentor
• Strategic growth activities – evaluate growth opportunities; lead/support due diligence; drive funding initiatives; prepare reports and presentations
• Technology & systems optimization – oversee software and ERP systems; drive digital transformation

Salary: Market related

Please email detailed CV, supporting documentation and salary requirements through to [e-mail] with “CFO” in the subject line.

If you have not received a response within 7 working days, please consider your application unsuccessful.