Assistant Director: Finance (Expenditure analysis and Management reporting) (2 posts) (Permanent position)

This is a permanent appointment for two Assistant Director positions within the Directorate Management Accounting, Sub-Directorate Strategic Budget Analysis, based at the Head Office in Cape Town, stationed at Bellville Health Park. The role sits at the heart of the department’s financial decision-making, focusing on expenditure analysis and management reporting. It is ideal for a finance or data professional who enjoys translating complex datasets into strategic insights, building financial models, and supporting budget planning across the organisation. The successful candidate will work in a structured government environment, providing both technical leadership and hands-on analytical support to Sectors and Institutions within the department.

To be considered, applicants need an appropriate three-year National Diploma or Degree in IT, Data Science, Finance, Accounting, or a related field. In addition, the role requires relevant experience in financial data analysis, management accounting, financial administration, budgeting, costing, or financial reporting. Advanced Microsoft Excel skills are essential, along with practical experience using database management and analytics tools such as Microsoft Azure, SQL Server, Power Query, and VBA programming. A valid Code B or EB driver’s licence is an inherent requirement, as the postholder is expected to travel to provide training and support to institutions within the department. Strong people management, coaching, and staff development skills are also required, as the role includes managing and developing a team.

The core duties are broad and analytical. The postholder will lead financial modelling and database management activities that support strategic planning, budgeting, and decision-making. They will analyse and interpret complex financial and non-financial information, providing evidence-based insights and recommendations to management. Data governance is a key responsibility, including data extraction, validation, and quality assurance to ensure the integrity of financial and management information. The role also involves continuously reviewing existing databases and reporting models, developing automated reporting solutions, and monitoring expenditure, cash flow, and budget performance through forecasting and variance analysis. Preparing cost estimates, financial assessments, and supporting analyses for planning and resource allocation is another important function. Beyond technical work, the postholder will build organisational analytical capability by training and guiding Sectors and Institutions on forecasting methodologies, financial reporting, and interpretation of management information.

Candidates should bring strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills, with the ability to develop practical, evidence-based solutions. Advanced computer literacy is expected, including proficiency in Microsoft Excel advanced functions, Power Query or Power Pivot, Microsoft Access, SQL Server, Power BI, and other analytics tools. Excellent interpersonal, communication, stakeholder engagement, and conflict resolution skills are necessary, along with the ability to work collaboratively across all levels and independently when required. The ability to clean, transform, and analyse large, complex datasets to generate actionable insights is central to this position. The post offers a salary with service benefits, including a 13th cheque, pension fund contributions, and housing and medical aid allowances. No payment of any kind is required when applying for this post.