The University of the Free State (UFS) is inviting applications for the position of Financial Officer (Post Level 11) within the Research Development division. This is a permanent role based at the Bloemfontein Campus. If you have a strong background in financial management, project coordination, and data analysis, this opportunity could be ideal for you.
Key Details
- Job Title: Financial Officer (Post Level 11)
- Job ID: 6058
- Organizational Unit: Vice-Rector: Research and Internationalisation -> Research Development
- Contract Type: Permanent
- Occupational Level: Junior Management
- Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Free State, South Africa
- Closing Date: 11 March 2025
Primary Responsibilities
The Financial Officer will play a crucial role in financial management, project coordination, and compliance within the research environment of the university. The responsibilities are categorized into three main areas: Project Management (Contracts and Budgets), Financial Management and Reporting, and General Ad Hoc Engagements.
1. Project Management (Contracts and Budgets)
- Prepare cost recovery journals for approval by the Director of Research Development.
- Reconcile financial records in project entities.
- Generate periodic project management accounts for internal stakeholders.
- Support project management activities, including consortium agreements.
- Assist in financial reporting by extracting data from research grant systems like RIMS.
- Monitor project expenditures and ensure adherence to UFS financial policies.
- Review research grants and contractual budgets to ensure compliance with internal controls, VAT legislation, and other regulations.
- Assist in upgrading and developing the RIMS contracts and grants module.
2. Financial Management and Reporting
- Process payment journals and track expenditures for reporting.
- Extract and analyze financial data from UFS financial tools such as Inquiry and General Ledger.
- Perform data analysis using Excel, including pivot tables.
- Verify data accuracy in financial systems.
- Summarize research and financial findings through tables, graphs, and reports.
- Assist in risk management updates and dashboard maintenance.
- Develop and implement process control procedures.
- Work with the RIMS team on financial module upgrades.
3. General and Ad Hoc Engagements
- Assist the Senior Director and Director of Research Development with special financial projects.
- Support office system implementation as required by the department.
Minimum Requirements
To be considered for this role, applicants must have:
- A Bachelor’s degree or Advanced Diploma/BTech/Postgraduate Certificate in Financial Management, Accounting, or a closely related field (NQF Level 7).
- At least two years of relevant experience in financial management within the South African Higher Education Research Environment.
Preferred Qualifications and Skills
Although not mandatory, the following would be advantageous:
- An Honours degree/Postgraduate Diploma/Professional Bachelor’s degree (NQF Level 8).
- Project management experience.
- Proficiency in financial data extraction and analysis using Excel.
- Knowledge of financial systems, IFRS, VAT legislation, and higher education financial regulations.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
- Ability to interpret financial contracts and grants.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
- Experience in monitoring project expenditures and account reconciliation.
- Membership or registration with a professional financial body.
Key Competencies
Results-Oriented
- Ability to work in a dynamic and changing environment.
- High level of responsibility and dependability.
Strategic Thinking
- Attention to detail and accuracy.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Business Acumen
- Understanding of financial regulations and reporting standards.
- Proficiency in financial management software.
Leadership and Collaboration
- Ability to lead projects and work effectively in a team.
- Strong interpersonal skills and collaborative approach.
Building Relationships
- Confidence in social and professional settings.
- Ability to make consultative decisions.
Required Documents for Application
Applicants must submit a complete application with the following documents:
- Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) and cover letter.
- Certified copies of qualifications (including SAQA accreditation for foreign qualifications).
- Copy of ID document (SA ID or passport for foreign applicants).
- Proof of professional registration (if applicable).
- Copy of driver’s license (if required).
- Employment confirmation letter (for external applicants).
Application Submission
All applications must be submitted online through the official UFS vacancy website:
Apply here
Note: Applications submitted through any other platform will not be considered.
Employment Details
- Assumption of Duties: As soon as possible.
- Salary: Available upon request.
- Fringe Benefits: Includes pension scheme, medical aid, group life insurance, housing allowance, leave benefits, service bonus, and study benefits.
Diversity and Employment Equity
The University of the Free State is committed to employment equity. Preference will be given to underrepresented designated groups, including candidates with disabilities. The Employment Equity Policy can be accessed online.
Application Deadline
🗓 Closing Date: 11 March 2025
If you do not receive feedback within six weeks of the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.
Enquiries
For more information, contact:
- 051 401 9813
- JardineS@ufs.ac.za or Recruit@ufs.ac.za
- Additional contacts: 051 401 9810 / 9814 / 2979
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This is a fantastic opportunity for financial professionals looking to advance their careers in higher education financial management. If you have a strong background in finance, project management, and data analysis, don’t miss the opportunity to apply for this Financial Officer position at UFS.