Senior Financial Data Analyst

Duties/Pligte        
Financial data analysis and planning:

• Developing and maintaining financial models for internal and external bursaries with the objective of forecasting and ensuring sustainability.
• Performing reconciliations on internal and external funds received and disbursed.
• Conducting a full audit of the operations on the environment to identify risks and anomalies to initiate corrective measures.

Strategic participation:

• Participating in strategic planning session and implementing strategic initiatives.
• Preparing, maintaining and sharing data to support strategic decisions, including but not limited to, funding, processes and policies.
• Benchmarking current processes and models against other universities and providing input to the processes of Student Finances.

Process ownership:

• Taking ownership of the processes of Student Finances and ensuring that processes are documented and improvements are initiated and implemented.
• Assisting with audits and ensuring that information is provided and queries are resolved promptly.
• Assisting the Student Finance Division with data capturing, collection and reporting tasks.
• Providing input to the development of new systems or system enhancements to ensure adherence to audit and other requirements.

Standard Operating Procedures:

• Adhering to the Standard Operating Procedures of the Student Finances Division.
• Effectively logging new information or changes on SharePoint.
• Effective and timely review of SharePoint announcements for changes/new information.
• Identifying and notifying the line manager of clients' challenges, complaints, and compliments.

Stakeholder relationships:

• Maintaining excellent, effective and positive relationships with relevant stakeholders.
• Maintaining professional and supportive internal relations within Student Finances that is conducive to positive team cohesion.

Operational support:

• Providing data insight to improve the service offering and contributing to enhanced student experience.
• Conducting operational data collection and analysis to support operational decision-making and reporting.
• Preparing, attending and presenting at committee meetings and other engagements.

Job Requirements 

• Honours degree (NQF 8) or equivalent in finance, accounting, economics, statistics, or a related field.
• At least five years' previous experience in financial planning and analysis, data analysis, or a similar role.
• Experience in interpreting and creating financial models and recent accounting practices.
• Proven abilities to plan, organise and prioritise.
• Proven complex operational problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Communication skills.
• Advanced computer skills.

Recommendation

• Experience in a similar environment.
• Experience in or knowledge of Stellenbosch University's financial and other applicable systems.

Deadline:3rd November, 2026