DIRECTOR: FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

This senior management position is located within the Department of Social Development in the Western Cape Government, where the successful candidate will serve as Director: Financial Management. The role is a strategic leadership post, reporting to the Chief Director, and is responsible for directing and overseeing the full spectrum of financial management functions within the department. The directorate is tasked with ensuring that the department's financial resources are managed in accordance with applicable legislation, regulations and best practices, while also supporting the broader strategic objectives of the department through sound budgeting, accounting and financial governance.

Candidates must possess an appropriate undergraduate qualification at NQF Level 7 or higher, recognised by SAQA, together with at least five years' experience at a middle or senior managerial level. The role demands proven knowledge of the legislative and regulatory frameworks relevant to financial management in the public sector, as well as familiarity with information systems used for knowledge and information management. A solid understanding of programme and project management, procurement and tendering processes, policy development, strategy management, monitoring and review, and modern systems of governance and administration is essential. Core competencies include strategic capability and leadership, project and programme management, change management, people management and empowerment, and financial management. Strong skills in numeracy, literacy, computer literacy, language, project management, accounting, finance, audit and strategic planning are also required.

The duties are wide-ranging and centre on four main functional areas. In management accounting, the Director must ensure integrated and effective budget planning for revenue and expenditure, manage the departmental budget process, prepare inputs for strategic and annual performance plans, oversee the Medium Term Expenditure Committee process, maintain and monitor financial information, manage roll-overs of funds, and develop relevant policies and procedures. The Director is also responsible for in-year budget monitoring, reporting and adjustment systems, including monthly, quarterly and annual reporting. In financial accounting, the role involves providing expenditure and general payment services, managing systems for transfers and subsidies, overseeing the Basic Accounting System and Logistical Information System payment processes, compiling financial statements, performing credit control services, and managing salary administration and debt management.

Beyond these technical duties, the Director plays a key role in strategic management, including defining the directorate's purpose and objectives, driving strategic and business planning, evaluating performance against measurable standards, and reporting regularly to the Chief Director. The post also carries significant people management responsibilities, such as participating in recruitment, motivating and training staff, managing performance and discipline, promoting sound labour relations, and fostering a culture of innovation. Financial management accountability extends to preparing annual and adjustment budgets, ensuring compliance with tender and procurement procedures, managing contracts, aligning spending with strategic objectives, overseeing risk management, and maintaining proper financial records. This is a demanding leadership role for a seasoned financial manager seeking to make a meaningful impact within the public sector.