ASSET CONTROLLER

This position is for an Asset Controller based at the Head Office in Mbombela, within the Department of Economic Development and Tourism. The role is central to maintaining the integrity of the department’s asset management framework, ensuring that all movable assets are accurately recorded, tracked, and accounted for in line with National Treasury Guidelines and departmental policies. Operating at a level that requires both technical financial knowledge and practical administrative skill, the incumbent will act as a custodian of the asset register, bridging the gap between physical asset verification and financial systems such as BAS and LOGIS. The role is an OSD-graded post, offering a structured career path within the public service environment.

To be considered, applicants must hold a SAQA-recognised tertiary qualification at NQF level six in Financial Management, Supply Chain Management, Purchasing, Logistics, Public Administration, Finance, or Accounting, coupled with at least two years of relevant experience in an asset management environment. A valid driver’s licence is essential, as is a working knowledge of the Basic Accounting System (BAS), GRAP standards, and LOGIS. Computer literacy is required, with particular proficiency in the MS Office suite, preferably Excel. The department is looking for someone who demonstrates leadership, sound interpersonal relationships, and strong asset management skills, along with a genuine client service orientation. These competencies are vital because the role involves engaging with various internal stakeholders, ensuring compliance, and supporting the department’s broader financial accountability obligations.

The core duties are extensive and revolve around the full asset lifecycle. The successful candidate will ensure that assets are properly accounted for in the Asset Register, updating records for new additions, movements, transfers, and disposals, while also retiring losses and disposed assets from the register. A key responsibility is the monthly reconciliation between BAS and the Asset Register, as well as monitoring all register entries to meet minimum requirements. The role also involves updating inventory lists, reviewing and implementing asset policies and procedures, and ensuring that the department’s asset requirements are included in the budget planning process. Physical oversight is a major component, with quarterly asset counts and bi-annual physical verification of movable assets required, followed by reconciliation against the Asset Register. In addition, the incumbent will manage registers for finance and operating leases, verify the existence of these leases, prepare monthly reconciliations between BAS and amortisation tables, and ensure that monthly payments are processed based on invoices received. Clearing reconciling items on ledgers, registers, and supplier accounts, ensuring proper annual reporting, and providing quality assurance for asset management processes round out the responsibilities.

Shortlisted candidates should be aware that the selection process includes interviews, and there are pre-entry assessments covering technical suitability and integrity. The top candidates will undergo personnel suitability checks, including criminal record, citizenship, financial standing, qualifications verification, and reference checks. The successful appointee will be required to enter into an Annual Performance Agreement and disclose financial interests annually. The department reserves the right not to fill the post, and only shortlisted applicants will be contacted. If no feedback is received within three months after the closing date, applicants should consider their application unsuccessful. This is a demanding but rewarding role for a detail-oriented professional who thrives on maintaining accurate records and ensuring compliance within a government department.