SCHOOL FINANCIAL MANAGER / BURSAR - ASAP or JAN 2026

Edustaff; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 500 000 - 700 000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious public school in Johannesburg is seeking a full-time Financial Manager / Bursar. The role includes overseeing financial operations, managing payroll functions, and preparing budgets. Candidates should have a tertiary qualification in Financial Management or Accounting, and proven experience in similar roles. Strong team management and communication skills are essential, along with proficiency in financial software like SAGE Payroll.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in financial management and payroll, preferably in a school or similar environment.
• Strong budgeting and reporting skills, experience presenting to senior leadership and governance structures.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage and process all payroll functions including statutory deductions.
• Oversee the school's full financial operations and systems.
• Prepare and monitor the annual budget alongside the Business Manager.

Skills

Financial management

Payroll processing

Budgeting

Team management

Communication skills

Education

Tertiary qualification in Financial Management or Accounting

Tools

SAGE Payroll

Ed-Admin

Job description

SCHOOL FINANCIAL MANAGER / BURSAR

THE STARTING DATE OF THE APPOINTMENT - ASAP or Jan 2026

Our client is a leading, high performing public school with a proud tradition of academic excellence, values-based education, and a commitment to empowering young women. We are looking for a full time Financial Manager / Bursar to take on a key professional role within our administration department.

This is a key leadership role responsible for driving sound financial management, regulatory compliance, and efficient operational support. The successful candidate will report to senior management and the school’s governing structures and will oversee the finance team.

Position Details

• Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent
• Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 07:30 – 15:30
• Reports to: Business Manager
• Team Leadership: Direct management of 2 Debtors Clerks and 1 Creditors Clerk

Key Responsibilities

• Salary Administration
  • Manage and process all payroll functions including statutory deductions (UIF, PAYE, Pension) and returns.
  • Work with SAGE Payroll to ensure accuracy and compliance.
  • Support salary negotiations and contract finalisation in collaboration with the HR Manager.
• Financial Oversight
  • Oversee the school's full financial operations and systems.
  • Approve expenditure based on physical verification and policy compliance.
  • Manage external service providers and contract obligations.
  • Liaise with insurance brokers and manage the school’s asset register.
  • Manage and maintain best practice financial management in co-ordination with the financial policy.
• Budgeting and Reporting
  • Prepare and monitor the annual budget alongside the Business Manager.
  • Generate monthly management accounts for the Senior Management Team (SMT) and School Governing Body (SGB).
  • Ensure compliance with Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) reporting requirements.
  • Manage payments to suppliers and assist with Learning and Teaching Support Material (LTSM) reporting.
  • Liaise with auditors and provide audit-ready documentation.
• Tax and Compliance
  • Coordinate SARS reconciliations and returns.
  • Maintain full compliance with tax legislation and financial regulations.

Qualifications & Competencies

• A tertiary qualification in Financial Management, Accounting or similar field.
• Proven experience in financial management and payroll, preferably in a school or similar environment.
• Strong budgeting and reporting skills, with experience presenting to senior leadership and governance structures.
• Proficient in financial software; SAGE Payroll and Ed-Admin experience is an advantage.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage a team and operate with integrity, accuracy, and accountability.
• Able to work independently in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

A collaborative leader with high levels of professionalism

Should you not hear from us within 2 weeks please consider your application as unsuccessful.