Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Financial Administration at Adventist University of Africa

Position Summary

AUA is seeking a Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Financial Administration (DVC-F). This is a full-time executive role reporting directly to the Vice-Chancellor. The DVC-F serves as the University’s Chief Financial Officer, providing strategic leadership in managing AUA’s financial resources. The successful candidate will ensure sound financial planning, implement effective internal controls, and uphold compliance with applicable Seventh-day Adventist Church financial policies, International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) adopted by the Seventh-day Adventist denomination, and applicable national financial regulations. Remuneration for this position will be competitive and in accordance with AUA’s salary scale and HR policies.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Financial Management: Provide strategic leadership and stewardship of the University’s financial resources, aligning financial plans with AUA’s mission and strategic goals.
• Budgeting & Financial Reporting: Oversee budgeting processes, cash flow management, and financial reporting (monthly, annual audits) to ensure transparency, accountability, and sustainability.
• Collaboration with Sponsoring Divisions: Assure regular communication and collaboration with sponsoring divisions (East Central Africa Division, South Africa Indian Ocean Division, West Central Africa Division) and their Unions/Conferences to assure timely and accurate financial transactions, up-to-date financial MOUs, and collection of student accounts receivable.
• Compliance & Internal Controls: Ensure that all financial operations comply with relevant national laws, accounting standards, and SDA Church policies, maintaining robust internal controls and risk management practices.
• Procurement & Asset Management: Supervise procurement, payroll, and asset management functions, safeguarding institutional assets and optimising resource use.
• Advisory & Policy Role: Advise the Vice-Chancellor and governing bodies on financial strategy and policy, contributing to the development and implementation of University-wide strategic plans.

Essential Qualifications

• Education: MBA (Master of Business Administration) or equivalent master’s degree in finance/accounting – required. Professional accounting certification, such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA), or Chartered Accountant (CA) – preferred. A terminal academic degree (PhD or equivalent) is highly desirable.
• Experience: At least seven (7) years of proven experience in senior financial management, preferably in higher education or nonprofit organisations. Demonstrated expertise in university finance operations, budgeting, and procurement policy frameworks.
• Skills & Fit: Strong analytical and strategic planning skills, excellent judgment, and knowledge of financial reporting standards. Effective leadership and collegial team management abilities in a multicultural environment.
• Mission Alignment: A committed Seventh-day Adventist professional dedicated to the mission and values of Seventh-day Adventist education, with integrity, transparency, and strong ethical stewardship of resources.

Qualified and interested candidates should submit the following documents (in PDF format, via email only):

• Cover Letter – outlining your interest and suitability for the position.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) – detailed, including academic qualifications and relevant work experience.
• Certified Academic & Professional Certificates – copies of degrees and professional certifications (e.g. CPA).
• Vision Statement – a brief essay (max 2000 words) describing your vision for financial administration at AUA.
• Three Reference Letters – including one from a Seventh-day Adventist Church leader, and two from professional supervisors or administrators.

Digital Submission Only: Email all application materials as PDF attachments to the Chair of the Search Committee at JohnG@gc.adventist.org no later than October 31, 2025. Please include the subject line “DVC-F Application – [Your Name]”. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. AUA is a faith-based institution that welcomes qualified applicants who share its vision of excellence and service.