Derick
Senior Manager: Finance Systems and Business Analysis (Re-Advertisement)
Institution: Rhodes University
Location: Makhanda, Eastern Cape
Division: Finance Division (0901)
Job Level: Grade 17 (Senior Management)
Employment Type: Permanent (possible fixed-term option of 3+ years)
Closing Date: 22 May 2026
Salary: Approx. R987 141 basic / R1.35 million cost-to-company per annum
Overview of the Role
Rhodes University is seeking a highly experienced Senior Manager: Finance Systems and Business Analysis to lead the optimisation, development, and continuous improvement of finance systems and related business processes within the university environment.
This is a strategic and technical leadership role sitting at the intersection of finance, systems management, and business analysis. The successful candidate will be responsible for driving efficiency in finance operations through ERP system optimisation, process redesign, and enhanced digital finance service delivery.
The role also requires strong collaboration with Information and Communication Technology Services (I&TS), finance leadership teams, and various internal stakeholders to ensure seamless integration between systems, processes, and end-user needs.
Core Purpose of the Position
The primary objective of this role is to lead the continuous improvement of finance systems and business processes within the institution. This includes:
- Optimising finance service delivery through systems enhancement
- Managing ERP financial system configuration and improvements
- Ensuring effective ICT governance in financial systems
- Providing technical leadership and advisory support to finance process owners
- Facilitating end-user training and system adoption
- Supporting digital transformation initiatives within the Finance Division
Key Responsibilities
Finance Systems Management
- Manage and maintain the university’s ERP financial systems and related modules
- Oversee system upgrades, enhancements, and configuration changes
- Ensure system stability, accuracy, and compliance with financial requirements
- Provide technical expertise in ERP functionality and integration
Business Analysis and Process Improvement
- Lead finance process redesign and optimisation initiatives
- Analyse existing workflows and identify inefficiencies
- Implement improvements to enhance financial service delivery
- Align financial systems with institutional operational needs
Project Management
- Manage system-related and finance transformation projects
- Ensure delivery of project outcomes that impact business processes and users
- Coordinate timelines, resources, and stakeholder expectations
- Ensure successful implementation of system enhancements
Training and User Support
- Develop and deliver end-user training on finance systems
- Provide ongoing support to finance system users
- Communicate system changes and updates effectively across departments
Governance and Compliance
- Ensure ICT governance frameworks are applied to finance systems
- Maintain compliance with accounting standards and institutional policies
- Support audit processes related to finance systems and data integrity
Leadership and Stakeholder Engagement
- Provide leadership within the Finance Division for systems-related functions
- Collaborate with IT and finance leadership teams
- Guide finance process owners on system capabilities and improvements
- Manage and supervise technical and operational teams
Minimum Requirements
Education
- A relevant NQF Level 7 qualification
(Preferably BCom in Accounting, Information Systems, or equivalent)
Experience
Applicants must have at least 6 years of relevant experience, including:
- ERP financial system implementation or upgrades
- Finance system configuration, testing, and functional design
- End-user training in ERP financial systems
- Financial and accounting experience in large, complex environments (minimum 3 years)
- Project management experience affecting business processes and users (minimum 3 years)
- Management or supervisory experience (minimum 2 years)
Advantageous Requirements
- Oracle ERP Financials certification
- Experience within the higher education sector
- Leadership role in full ERP financial system implementation projects
Technical Skills Required
- Strong experience with ERP finance systems (implementation and maintenance)
- Advanced Microsoft Office skills (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
- Financial systems testing and configuration
- Business process analysis and redesign
- Data-driven reporting and analysis capabilities
Key Competencies
- Strong analytical and problem-solving ability
- Strategic thinking and systems mindset
- Leadership and people management capability
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
- Strong attention to detail and governance awareness
- Ability to work in a complex institutional environment
- Project management discipline and execution focus
- Ability to translate technical systems into business solutions
Application Requirements
Applicants are required to submit:
- A comprehensive CV
- Certified qualifications
- Motivation letter outlining suitability
- Reasons for leaving previous positions
- Full referee details (direct line managers preferred)
Applications must be submitted via the official online recruitment system. Handwritten applications will not be accepted.
Institutional Values
Rhodes University promotes a values-driven culture based on:
- Diversity
- Integrity
- Respect
- Excellence
- Collegiality
- Compassion
These values are supported by accountability, transparency, and ethical leadership across all institutional functions.
Final Note
This is a high-level strategic finance systems leadership role suited for a professional with deep ERP experience, strong finance background, and proven capability in managing complex system environments. The role plays a key part in modernising and strengthening financial operations within a major higher education institution in South Africa.
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