Financial Administrative Officer (3-year renewable contract), Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, Department For Education Innovation

UP Professional and Support

DEPARTMENT FOR EDUCATION INNOVATION

POST TITLE: FINANCIAL ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER (3-year renewable contract)

PERMNES POST LEVEL: 10

In pursuit of the ideals of excellence and diversity, the University of Pretoria wishes to invite applications for the following vacancy.

The University of Pretoria's commitment to quality makes us one of the top research Universities in the country and gives us a competitive advantage in international science and technology development.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Collaborate with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Senior Program Manager and the Mastercard Foundation accountant to develop and execute financial strategies that align with long-term goals;
• Oversee the Scholars’ financial activities and ensure sound financial health and compliance with relevant policies and regulations;
• Ensure that the annual budgeting is in line with the approved funding, and provide periodic financial reports;
• Ensure timely and accurate disbursement of scholars’ tuition fees, stipends, and identify financial risks and mitigation strategies;
• Comply with UP and Mastercard Foundation financial policies, regulations and procedures;
• Reconcile and monitor daily, monthly and annual transactions;
• Provide reports and escalate irregularities;
• Collaborate with the Scholars Program Senior Program Manager and staff to allocate and approve payments for the agreed Scholars’ financial needs;
• Prepare claims or invoices and provide system upload files to enable student disbursements;
• Award bursary amounts to student accounts within the budget and according to criteria/regulations;
• Ensure that the organisation complies with relevant financial regulations, tax laws, and accounting standards of UP and the Mastercard Foundation;
• Coordinate and manage financial audits, and address audit findings and recommendations;
• Identify cost reduction opportunities and implement cost control measures to improve Scholars Program’s expenditure;
• Confirm with the Senior Program Manager the bank wire transfer details on behalf of the Scholars Program and UP;
• Ensure that information required by the Mastercard Foundation is submitted accurately and by the due dates communicated;
• Ensure compliance with POPI Act when accessing, processing and requesting personal information;
• Build relationships and ensure regular communication with all relevant internal and external stakeholders;
• Handle enquiries made by the Senior Program Manager, Faculties, other UP departments, Scholars, and staff in a timely manner.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting or business administration;
• 3 years of experience in:
  • Accounting principles;
  • Office/financial administration;
  • Database management;
  • Records management.

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES (SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND BEHAVIOURAL ATTRIBUTES):

• Information management;
• Knowledge of accounting practices and grants management procedures;
• Computer literacy; proficient in all Microsoft Office Suite and Financial tools;
• Attention to detail, ability to work independently, and set priorities;
• Ability to work under pressure;
• Adaptability and decisiveness;
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills;
• Empathetic;
• Exhibit strong organisational skills;
• Follow through with assignments, observe timelines and meet scheduled deadlines.

ADDED ADVANTAGES AND PREFERENCES:

• At least one year of experience working in a higher education environment;
• At least one year of experience working in finance.

PLEASE NOTE: All shortlisted candidates may be required to participate in relevant skills assessments as part of the selection process.

The all-inclusive remuneration package for this contract position will be commensurate will the incumbent’s level of appointment, as determined by UP policy guidelines.

Applicants are requested to apply online at www.up.ac.za and follow the link: Careers@UP. In applying for this post, please attach:

• A comprehensive CV;
• Certified copies of qualifications;
• Names, e-mail addresses and telephone details of three referees whom we have permission to contact.

CLOSING DATE: 01 September 2026

No application will be considered after the closing date or if it does not comply with at least the minimum requirements.

ENQUIRIES: Ms Lungile Maqutu, via email at lungile.maqutu@up.ac.za for application-related enquiries, and Dr Grace Ramafi, via email at grace.ramafi@up.ac.za for enquiries relating to the post content.

Should you not hear from the University of Pretoria by 30 November 2026, please accept that your application has been unsuccessful.

The University of Pretoria is committed to equality, employment equity and diversity.

In accordance with the Employment Equity Plan of the University and its Employment Equity goals and targets, preference may be given, but is not limited to, candidates from under-represented designated groups.

All candidates who comply with the requirements for appointment are invited to apply.

By applying for this vacancy, the candidates consent to undergo verification of personal credentials and related information, including, but not limited to, qualifications, criminal record, credit record, and current and historic disciplinary proceedings as part of the selection process.

The University of Pretoria reserves the right not to fill the advertised positions.