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Chief Financial Officer (Grade 24)

Finance Division

Applicants who applied previously should not reapply for the post.

The role of the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) is critical in steering the finance function through the changing and challenging environment that Rhodes University faces. In addition, the CFO oversees the provision and maintenance of the University's infrastructure, facilities, and related operations (this includes but may not be limited to procurement, facilities and infrastructure, risk and compliance, and residential operations).

The CFO provides vision, leadership, and overall strategic direction for the University’s business and financial operations in a rapidly and highly competitive environment in which public higher education exists. The CFO advises the Vice-Chancellor on and is directly accountable for the financial sustainability of the University through the appropriate management and administration of financial operations of the University, the development and implementation of the financial vision for the University in line with its strategic plan, mission, and vision.

As a member of the University's executive leadership, the CFO provides the Vice Chancellor and other executive leadership team members with advice, guidance, and easily accessible financial information for planning, resource allocation, and strategic decision-making. In addition, the CFO must ensure that appropriate and relevant control measures and systems are in place, including capital budget planning, accounting, reporting, auditing, forecasting, procurement, and investment management.

Job Requirements

A CA(SA) registered with SAICA or an appropriate equivalent financial qualification (at least NQF level 8). Registered South African Chartered Accountants with the requisite experience will be given preference. A minimum of ten (10) years relevant experience, where such experience includes: -

• Having led a significant, large, and complex finance division.
• Extensive experience working with financial systems, experience working with Oracle would be an advantage.
• Proven track record of achievement as a senior-level finance official within a large and complex organisation.
• Experience in strategic and operational planning and execution. It would be preferable if this experience were not only related to the financial portfolio.
• Excellent senior management administration experience and active participation in key decision-making fora both internally and externally.
• Championing and managing transformation, preferably at the organisational/institutional level.
• Sound governance knowledge, international reporting standards, and best practice trends
• Experience in a higher education environment and understanding its challenges will be strongly recommended.
  
  

Application Process

Prospective candidates must 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, should include at least their contact number and email address.
• A strong and succinct motivation of no more than 5 pages 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 questions asked appropriately will result in an application being disqualified.

Any questions or enquiries can be addressed to Ms Ntosh Gongqa at hrrecruitment@ru.ac.za or 046 603 8616. The shortlisted candidates will be informed of the interview date.

Remuneration Per Annum (Grade 24)

Cost to Company per annum (Approximately): R3 183 916

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

Closing Date: 14 August 2025

If you are not contacted within 30 days of 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 to achieve our vision and mission.

These Values Are

Diversity; Integrity; Respect; Excellence; Collegiality and Compassion

Recognising that diversity is essential in achieving excellence. Rhodes University strongly encourages all suitably qualified candidates to apply for this position.

Please note that all appointments are made in line with the requirements of the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998, as amended by the Immigration Act 13 of 2022, and Rhodes University's Recruitment and Selection Policies. Preference will be given to female applicants.