Duties 

• Operational excellence: Supporting the establishment of a financially sustainable Faculty through innovative, future-focused supporting mechanisms. Establishing and maintaining a clear financial strategy linking the budget with the Faculty’s overall strategy. 
• Collecting, analysing and maintaining relevant data and management information to advise the Dean and executive about internal and external impacts on financial and operational strategies. 
• Providing timely and accurate information to key stakeholders and ensuring compliance with the University’s policies. Leading the management of effective Faculty administrative operations.
• Finance management: Managing the annual budget-related responsibilities, including overall financial forecasting, risk analysis, preparation of budgets and allocation of funds. 
• Managing allocated central funds. Monitoring and computation of student fees and bursary funding. 
• Liaising with the Finance Division regarding financial policies, regulations, guidelines and service level agreements.
• Procurement: Monitoring procurement at the Faculty environments to be within policies and guidelines and ensuring accurate financial reporting and asset management.
• Human resources: Drafting, monitoring and managing the annual Faculty personnel plans of the environments within the allocated funding framework and monitoring of expenditure.
• Ensuring adherence to human resources policies and guidelines for appointments, equity and transformation.
• Facilities management: Overall management of Faculty facilities to provide an optimal environment for teaching and research. 
• Managing facility project requests. Acting as an interface between the Faculty and Facilities Management for optimal space utilisation and provision of services. 
• Ensuring adherence to safety policies and protocols and employing sustainable practices.
• Academic support: Administrative management and support of the academic offering of the Faculty through intentional enrolment planning, provisioning and maintenance of the academic spaces, and liaising with relevant institutional divisions.
• Strategic initiatives: Engaging with institutional stakeholders to achieve the Faculty’s vision and contributing to the formulation and implementation of strategic plans.

Job Requirements        

• An honours degree in the sciences or applicable related field with at least eight years’ experience in a senior management role, or a master’s degree with at least four years’  experience in a senior management role, with an honours in a science or related field.
• A strong track record in financial, human resources, and operational management – preferably within the higher education sector. 
• A deep understanding of business management theories, practices, and policies. 
• Proven leadership and supervisory ability to effectively manage multiple tasks, projects, teams and individuals.
• Strong ability to manage budgets and develop comprehensive business plans.
• Candidates will be required to take aptitude, psychometric and proficiency tests.

Recommendation      

• Prior proven experience and an understanding of the operational requirements of science laboratories will be a distinct advantage.
• Demonstrated excellence in strategic analysis, decision-making, and problem-solving. 
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities to act as negotiator and decision maker.
• Demonstrated experience in and knowledge of policy and procedures related to science teaching and learning, assessment and research in higher education environments.
• Relevant experience in student administration, enrolment and recruitment strategies at a tertiary institution.
• A working knowledge of academic and financial administration systems in a tertiary environment.
• A proactive and innovative approach to improving operational processes.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel and Office 365 skills.
• In-depth knowledge of business analysis and methodology.
• Familiarity with the science and technology framework of South Africa.