Senior Manager: Finance Systems and Business Analysis

Rhodes University; Makhanda; On-site; ZAR 935 000 - 1 286 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading higher education institution in Makhanda is seeking a Senior Manager for Finance Systems and Business Analysis. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing finance application systems, leading process improvements, and ensuring effective ICT governance. Applicants should have a relevant NQF level 7 qualification, at least 6 years of experience including financial management, ERP systems, and team leadership skills. A competitive salary package is offered, and applications must include a CV and motivation letter.

Qualifications

• At least 6 years of relevant experience in a large, complex environment.
• Experience in leading and optimizing finance processes.
• Knowledge of governance in ICT.

Responsibilities

• Manage finance systems and drive continuous improvement.
• Provide technical expertise to finance process owners.
• Facilitate training and support for finance applications.

Skills

Financial and accounting experience

Process (re)design

Project management

ERP financial system implementation

Microsoft Office proficiency

Management and supervision

Education

NQF level 7 qualification (preferably B Com with Accounting III or Information Systems III)

Tools

ERP systems

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Microsoft PowerPoint

Job description

Senior Manager: Finance Systems and Business Analysis (Grade 17)

Finance Division

The Finance Division invites suitably qualified candidates to join their team.

Main Objectives

Responsible for leading and managing the activities that drive continuous improvement in and optimisation of finance systems and business processes, contributing to improvements in finance service delivery, in collaboration with the leadership of the Finance Division and I&T teams. Responsible for maintaining and managing enhancements of the University’s finance application systems, providing technical expertise and direction to finance process owners, communicating finance systems changes, and facilitating training and end‑user support. Must ensure that ICT Governance is effectively managed.

The Requirements

A relevant NQF level 7 (preferably a B Com with Accounting III or Information Systems III, or similar qualification), plus at least 6 years relevant experience, where such experience includes:

• Financial and accounting experience, including application of accounting standards, in a large, complex environment.
• At least three years of experience in process (re)design, functional configuration, testing and end‑user training on an ERP system.
• At least three years of experience in project management where project outcomes affect business processes and end‑users.
• At least three years of knowledge of and experience with standardising and consolidating protocols, processes and procedures.
• Experience in the implementation of an ERP financial system and related modules.
• Highly proficient in Microsoft Office applications, which include Excel, Word and PowerPoint.
• At least two years of management and/or supervision experience.
• The following will be advantageous:

• Oracle certification in one or more of the Oracle ERP Financials applications/services
• Working within a Higher Education
• Leader in the full implementation of an ERP financial system

Application Process

It is essential that prospective candidates read the job profile for further information and ensure that all relevant documentation is submitted.

The Following Documents Are Required

• A comprehensive CV and relevant qualifications which should include the following:
  • Reasons for leaving your current and previous jobs.
  • 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.
• 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 scheduled for the 21 January 2026.
• The selection process that will be followed for this post will include an assessment and/or presentation and an interview.
• Shortlisted candidates will be informed of the assessment and interview date.

Remuneration Per Annum (Grade 17)

Basic Pensionable Salary per annum: R935 679

Cost to Company per annum (Approximately): R1 285 142

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 does not entitle the applicant to an interview. Employment checks will be conducted on recommended candidates.

Closing Date

09 December 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.

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 55 of 1998, as amended, the Immigration Act 13 of 2022 and Rhodes University's Recruitment and Selection policies.

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
• Compassion

Underpinning these values is the moral duty of accountability and courage: we acknowledge that we are answerable to each other, our Council and ultimately, the South African society for the decisions we make and the actions we take. We are committed to openness and transparency in our governance, our decision‑making and in the execution of our responsibilities and in demonstrating courage in confronting those who violate the values for which we stand.