Are you a skilled financial professional with experience in debt collection and student accounts? North-West University (NWU), Vanderbijlpark Campus, is looking for a Senior Financial Assistant to join their team in the Finance and Facilities Department. This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a prestigious educational institution and contribute to student financial support and management.
Senior Financial Assistant Job Overview
- Job Title: Senior Financial Assistant
- Reference Number: V000024
- Location: Vanderbijlpark, Gauteng
- Job Category: Education & Training
- Industry: Education
- Contract Type: Permanent
- Peromnes Grade: P12
- Department: Student Life and Financial Related Systems
- Application Deadline: 14 October 2024
- Remuneration: The total annual remuneration package will be in line with the NWU policy guidelines and commensurate with the level of appointment.
Key Responsibilities
As a Senior Financial Assistant, your primary role will be to manage student debt collection and assist in maintaining financial processes related to student accounts. The main duties include:
- Student Account Enquiries and Administration:
- Assisting during the registration process by evaluating accounts, creating deferments, and documenting general notes.
- Creating and maintaining credit classifications for students.
- Preparing cases for the Financial Registration Committee.
- Performing regular account audits.
- Setting up debit order payment arrangements or alternative payment plans and monitoring them on a monthly basis.
- Maintaining relationships with bursary providers and assisting with required information.
- Preparing and submitting bursary invoices and conducting follow-ups on payments.
- Debt Collection:
- Executing the actions outlined in the annual collection cycle.
- Sending monthly communication via SMS and emails and recording all interactions.
- Reporting monthly on international students, FRC payments, and debit orders.
- Graduation Debt Management:
- Obtaining the graduation list 8 weeks before the ceremony.
- Determining students’ financial statuses and communicating outstanding balances.
- Collecting outstanding fees where possible.
- Monitoring payment activity and attendance for graduation.
- Handover of Bad Debt and Monthly Attorney Debtor Reconciliations:
- Identifying accounts for handover to legal channels.
- Communicating with students regarding outstanding balances and attempting collections.
- Preparing final lists for handover and completing VSS transactions.
- Adjusting general ledger balances based on reports from attorneys.
- Ad Hoc Tasks:
- Assisting with additional tasks within the Student Accounts & Bursary Department as required.
Minimum Requirements
- Qualification: An advanced certificate in Accounting (NQF level 5) or a finance-related field.
- Experience: At least two years of experience in financial processing.
Added Advantages & Preferences:
- A minimum of one year of experience within the tertiary education sector.
- Familiarity with the Kuali Financial System and VSS System.
Competencies and Skills Required
- Technical Skills: Proficiency in MS Office and financial systems, strong problem-solving capabilities, and the ability to follow up and track processes continuously.
- Communication Skills: Effective in both verbal and written communication.
- Behavioral Skills: Client service orientation, ability to work independently and within a team, time management, and capability to work accurately under pressure.
Key Behavioral Attributes
- Client-oriented mindset.
- Ability to function both independently and as part of a team.
- Good time management and attention to detail.
- Capacity to handle high-pressure situations.
Why Join North-West University?
North-West University is known for its commitment to academic excellence and supportive working environment. Being part of the Finance and Facilities Department, you will play a crucial role in ensuring that students can achieve their academic goals without the burden of financial uncertainty. This position provides an opportunity to grow within the educational sector and to contribute to the financial sustainability of the university and its students.
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How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the official North-West University vacancy website. Ensure your application is complete and includes all required documents, as incomplete applications or those submitted through other platforms will not be considered.
Important Contact Information
- Job Content Enquiries:
- Lize Bierman
- Email: Lize.bierman@nwu.ac.za
- Recruitment Process Enquiries:
- Moratuwa Motsemme
- Phone: 018 299 4958
North-West University is an equal opportunity employer committed to transformation and diversity within its institution. Preference will be given to candidates from designated groups, as outlined in the NWU Employment Equity Plan and the Employment Equity Act.
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The Senior Financial Assistant position at North-West University, Vanderbijlpark Campus, offers a unique opportunity for an experienced finance professional to join a reputable academic institution. With a focus on managing student accounts, debt collection, and bursary relationships, this role is ideal for someone who is client-focused, detail-oriented, and has a passion for working in the education sector.
