Chief Finance Manager

About the role

The Chief Finance Manager will lead the university’s financial strategy, ensuring sound fiscal planning, resource mobilisation and compliance with statutory obligations. Reporting to the University Secretary, the role combines senior financial oversight with grant and project finance management in a higher‑education environment.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and operationalise the University’s Financial Plan, providing strategic advice on fiscal planning and financial objectives.
• Coordinate the budgeting process, monitor implementation, assess performance and propose revenue allocations.
• Lead resource mobilisation initiatives, including the design of fundraising strategies and preparation of grant proposals.
• Oversee accountability and audit processes, ensuring timely and accurate financial reporting.
• Maintain integrity of financial records and ensure compliance with agreements, statutory obligations and donor requirements.
• Provide guidance on grant, contract and procurement management, including reporting timelines and visibility requirements.
• Advise on finance, accounting and taxation matters and support internal capacity building for resource mobilisation.

Required profile

• Master’s degree in Economics, Business Administration, Accounting, Finance or a related field.
• Professional accounting qualification (e.g., CPA, ACCA) is an advantage.
• At least 3 years of senior‑level financial management experience with a proven track record.
• Experience in programme/project design, grant management, budgeting, costing, monitoring and evaluation.
• Strong analytical, numerical and modelling abilities and thorough knowledge of financial systems and legislation.
• Excellent communication, leadership and interpersonal skills for collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.

Required skills

• Financial modelling
• Budgeting and cost control
• Grant management and proposal writing
• Accounting systems and principles
• Financial analysis