Stellenbosch University (SU) invites applications from visionary, values-driven, and collaborative applicants for the position of Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for SU. As a globally connected, research-intensive institution, SU advances knowledge in service of society and strives to be Africa’s leading research-intensive university and Africa's first Top 100 global university — globally recognised for excellence, inclusivity, and innovation. Guided by Vision 2040 and the Strategy Plan 2026–2030, SU is committed to ensuring long-term financial sustainability, enabling academic excellence, and supporting innovation and societal impact through sound financial stewardship. Reporting directly to the Rector and Vice-Chancellor, the CFO serves as the University’s chief financial executive, responsible for the strategic leadership of the University’s financial sustainability, resource management, and commercial development. The incumbent provides integrated leadership across finance, investment management, and innovation and commercialisation, ensuring that financial strategies and systems effectively support the University’s academic imperative and long-term institutional goals. The CFO plays a central role in shaping and driving the University’s financial strategy, including revenue diversification, cost optimisation, and the development of sustainable funding models. Working closely with Council, the Rectorate, and senior leadership, the CFO ensures alignment between financial planning, institutional priorities, and strategic decision-making at the highest level. The CFO will work closely with the SU Chief Operating Officer (COO). The COO holds ultimate responsibility for facilities and infrastructure management, information technology and security, internal audit, campus security, Maties Sport, fraud and corruption reporting platforms, litigation matters (excluding employment related matters), amongst others. The CFO is forward-thinking and will lead and drive financial innovation, efficiency, and resilience across the institution. This includes overseeing the University’s integrated budgeting and capital planning processes, investment portfolio and endowment funds, and financial systems, while ensuring strong governance, compliance, and risk management. The role further drives the commercialisation of the University’s assets, intellectual property, and innovation activities, positioning SU as a leader in entrepreneurial and innovation ecosystems locally and globally. This is an exceptional opportunity for a dynamic and strategic leader with extensive executive experience in complex organisations, and a deep understanding of financial strategy, governance and commercialisation. The incumbent will play a pivotal role in securing Stellenbosch University’s financial future, enabling sustainable growth, innovation, and global competitiveness. Duties Providing strategic financial leadership to ensure the long-term sustainability and financial health of the University. Developing and implementing a comprehensive financial strategy aligned with the University’s vision and strategic priorities. Leading the integrated budgeting process, including operating and capital budgets, and presenting these to Council for approval. Overseeing financial management functions, including accounting, treasury, procurement, financial reporting, and resource allocation. Managing and optimising the University’s investment portfolio, endowment funds, and financial assets to maximise returns and sustainability. Driving revenue diversification and sustainable funding models, including addressing sector-specific challenges such as student funding and debt. Leading the implementation and optimisation of financial systems and technologies to enhance efficiency, reporting, and decision‑making. Advancing SU’s entrepreneurial ecosystem through strategic leadership of innovation, commercialisation, and partnership activities, including executive oversight of intellectual property, spin‑out companies, and related commercial entities beyond traditional funding streams. Ensuring strong governance, compliance, and financial integrity, including statutory reporting and alignment with relevant regulatory frameworks. Assuming ultimate accountability for the University’s Broad‑Based Black Economic Empowerment (B‑BBEE) strategy and credentials, in close collaboration with the Chief Operating Officer and Chief People Officer, to ensure and advance the University’s empowerment rating and transformation objectives. Leading enterprise financial risk management, including insurance, audit, and internal control systems, and serving as key liaison to the Audit and Risk Committee of Council. Strengthening stakeholder relationships with Council, government, industry, investors, and partners at local, national, and international levels. Supporting institutional fundraising, donor engagement, and strategic financial partnerships. Leading and developing high‑performing teams and fostering a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement. Chairing and/or serving on the boards of various SU subsidiaries and associates, relevant governance and management committees, and the Stellenbosch Trust. Requirements A relevant NQF8 or higher postgraduate qualification, and relevant professional membership (CA(SA), CFA Charter holder, Chartered Actuary or similar). At least ten (10) years’ experience in advanced financial strategy, business planning, and integrated financial management at senior executive level in a public or private organisation of comparable scale to Stellenbosch University. Proven experience in long‑term financial planning, forecasting, balance sheet management, and financial governance. Proven ability to lead large‑scale financial operations and drive organisational financial sustainability. Strong understanding of governance, compliance, audit, and risk management frameworks. Demonstrated experience of working with boards, committees, and senior governance structures. Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively within a senior executive team. Demonstrated commitment to fostering transformation, diversity, and inclusion. The ability to function effectively within a multilingual and multicultural environment. Proven ability to develop and sustain strategically relevant institutional partnerships and alliances at national and international levels. Term of Office The appointment is for a five (5) year fixed term with the possibility of reappointment for further terms. A successful candidate currently holding an academic appointment may, where applicable and subject to the applicable University policies and approval processes, be appointed to an academic rank and return to a relevant Faculty at the end of the term of office. #J-18808-Ljbffr