ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT (X1 POST)

This position is for an Assistant Director of Financial Management within the Free State Provincial Department of Health, based in Bloemfontein. The role is a senior supervisory post within the entity’s financial management unit, responsible for ensuring that all financial operations are conducted in line with the Public Finance Management Act, Treasury Regulations, and departmental policies. The incumbent will oversee a team and manage a broad spectrum of financial functions, from cashier services and debt management to expenditure control and financial reporting. The role requires a strong understanding of government financial systems, particularly BAS and PERSAL, and the ability to lead staff while maintaining accountability and ethical conduct.

To be considered, applicants must have a Grade 12 certificate along with a recognised National Diploma or a Bachelor’s Degree or Advanced Diploma at NQF Level 7 in Financial Management. A minimum of three to five years of experience in financial management or a senior state accounting environment is required, with at least three years in a supervisory capacity. The ideal candidate will possess knowledge of human resource management legislation and practices, the PFMA, Treasury Regulations, departmental policies, and the framework for managing performance information. Strong problem-solving, communication, client orientation, and people diversity management skills are essential, as is a valid driver’s licence. Practical experience with the BAS accounting system is a specific requirement.

The duties are extensive and cover the full financial cycle. The Assistant Director will manage cashier operations, banking services, and electronic payments, ensuring that all monies are collected, safeguarded, and banked according to prescribed processes. This includes overseeing bank reconciliations, verifying electronic transfers, and safeguarding source documents. The role also involves debt management, such as identifying and recording debts, liaising with debtors on payment terms, and ensuring accurate allocation of receipts. In terms of revenue, the incumbent will compile and distribute monthly invoices and statements, monitor income, review reconciliations, and develop corrective measures when needed. Expenditure management is another key area, covering both compensation of employees and goods and services. This includes verifying payroll transactions on the accounting system, authorising reimbursements on BAS, reconciling PERSAL with BAS, and ensuring that service providers are paid correctly and timeously. The role also requires overseeing the preparation of financial information for reporting purposes, analysing expenditure reports, and assisting with the compilation of interim and annual financial statements.

Supervision is a central component of the job. The Assistant Director will allocate duties, perform quality control, advise and lead supervisors, manage performance and discipline, and ensure that all team members are trained and developed. The post also requires the development and monitoring of work systems and processes to ensure efficient functioning. As a special condition, successful completion of the Senior Management Pre-Entry Programme (Nyukela) is required before appointment, and all shortlisted candidates will undergo pre-entry assessments. Applicants must apply through the department’s e-recruitment system, ensuring their profile is fully completed and uploading a CV and relevant documents, with certification required only for those invited to interviews.