The Office of the Vice-Chancellor invite suitably qualified candidates to join their team. 

Main Objectives

To develop, implement and manage the university's Integrated Risk Management and Business Continuity Planning Framework.

To develop, implement and manage the university’s Combined Assurance Framework.

To report directly to the Vice-Chancellor or his nominee and the Audit and Risk Committees(A&RC) on deviations from risk management plans and areas that place the University at material risk to establish and maintain an integrated and effective Strategic Risk Management framework where risks are identified proactively, quantified and managed consistently, to initiate, drive, advise on and co-ordinate all risk management activities and to establish compliance requirements and to monitor the adherence to these requirements. 

To work collaboratively between the offices of the Chief Financial Officer and the Registrar.

To develop, implement and manage the Integrated Business Continuity Plan for all facets of the University. 

To establish a compliance framework to monitor laws and legislation affecting the University and ensure its effective compliance. 

To oversee occupational, health and safety, and access and security matters that affect the University. 

To advise management, A&RC, and the council on strategic risks that may affect the university. 

The incumbent has unrestricted access to the Chair: A&RC.

The Requirements
An Honours Degree (i.e., a 4-year Degree) with Accounting, Auditing or Law as majors (with risk management studies being a distinct advantage) plus approximately 7 years’ relevant experience (preferably including a traineeship with an accounting and auditing firm or in commerce or legal practice) where such experience includes:-

• Previous experience in risk, assurance and compliance management, 5 of which must have been at a senior level
• A demonstrable working knowledge of an Integrated Enterprise Risk Management Framework/ Model and implementation thereof
• A demonstrable working knowledge of an integrated business continuity framework and implementation
• Systems design and control training experience
• Project management experience

Application Process

It is essential that prospective candidates read the job profile for further information and ensure that all relevant documentation is submitted.

The following documents are required:

• A comprehensive CV and relevant qualifications which should include the following: -
  • Reasons for leaving your current and previous jobs.
  • Referees who are and/or were your direct line manager, their title, name, designation and contact information which should be at least their contact number and email address.
• A strong and succinct motivation outlining your interest in the post and suitability relative to the job requirements. 

Please note that no hand-written applications will be considered. Your application must be submitted via our website and online recruitment system.  Failure to submit all documentation and respond to all the questions asked appropriately will result in an application being disqualified.

Any questions or enquiries regarding the submission of an application please contact 046 603 7266.

Selection Process (provisional date, subject to change):

• Short-listing meeting scheduled for the TBC 2026.
• The selection process that will be followed for this post will include an assessment and/or presentation and an interview.
• Shortlisted candidates will be informed of the interview date.

Remuneration per annum (Grade 17):

Basic Pensionable Salary per annum:                          R987,141.00

Cost to Company per annum (Approximately):             R1,269,476.00

All applications will be treated in strict confidence. This post is advertised as a permanent post, but the University may opt to appoint on a fixed-term contract of not less than three years. The University reserves the right not to proceed with the filling of the post. An application does not entitle the applicant to an interview.  Employment checks will be conducted on recommended candidates. 

Recognising that diversity is important in achieving excellence. Rhodes University strongly encourages South African members of underrepresented designated groups as well as persons with disabilities to apply. Spouses and partners of existing staff members are also encouraged to apply. 

Please note all appointments are made in line with the requirements of the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998, as amended, the Immigration Act 13 of 2022 and Rhodes University's Recruitment and Selection policies. 

Our core values and principles are the foundation of our commitment to creating a positive, supportive, and enabling environment. These values guide our decisions, actions, and how we engage with each other as we work to achieve our vision and mission.

These values are: 
Diversity; Integrity; Respect; Excellence; Collegiality and Compassion

Underpinning these values is the moral duty of accountability and courage: we acknowledge that we are answerable to each other, our Council and ultimately, the South African society for the decisions we make and the actions we take. We are committed to openness and transparency in our governance, our decision-making and in the execution of our responsibilities and in demonstrating courage in confronting those who violate the values for which we stand.