SCHOOL BURSAR
Waterberg Academy is a prestigious educational institution dedicated to fostering a love for learning and excellence in education. We are committed to nurturing the potential of every learner and providing a supportive and innovative learning environment. We are seeking a passionate and skilled Bursar to report directly to the Executive Head and the Board of Governors and ensure the financial sustainability of the school.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Management:
- Develop and maintain robust financial policies and procedures.
- Compile, oversee and align budgets with the school’s strategic goals.
- Oversee and be responsible for asset management, budgeting, scenario planning, and compliance with financial regulations.
- Monitor financial transactions and reconcile bank accounts daily.
- Manage school fees, billing, collections, and debt management.
- Oversee procurement processes, asset registers, and investment accounts.
- Maintain accurate financial records up to Trial Balance.
- Prepare month-end and year-end adjustment journals and reconciliations.
- Prepare annual audit files and liaise with auditors.
- Manage payment processes, cash flow forecasts, and SARS submissions.
- Oversee financial administration of the school.
Financial Reporting:
- Prepare monthly Management Accounts and annual financial statements.
- Submit quarterly reports and compile detailed reports for senior management.
- Attend daily, weekly or monthly meetings with school management and /or Board Finance sub-committee.
Compliance:
- Ensure adherence to financial regulations, IFRS for SMEs, and Department of Education requirements.
- Support and assist with external audits and implement recommendations.
- Ensure compliance with POPIA and WCED/DoE finance policies.
Payroll and HR:
- Manage payroll ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
- Assist and maintain accurate HR records including drawing up employment contracts ensuring legal compliance.
Systems and Applications:
- Assist with the implementation of new accounting systems.
- Manage collections and reporting for excursions, sports, and events.
- Proficient use of accounting software
Stakeholder Collaboration:
- Provide financial guidance and support to the Executive Head, School Management Team, and Board.
- Build and lead a collaborative finance team, fostering efficiency and accountability.
Skills and Qualifications:
- B.Com Accounting degree
- Minimum 3 years’ financial management experience, preferably in a school or non-profit environment.
- Excellent knowledge of IFRS for SMEs and South African financial regulations.
- Fully computer literate and strong proficiency with various accounting software platforms.
- Advanced Excel skills with strong analytical and problem-solving ability.
- Excellent organisational, interpersonal, and written/verbal communication skills.
- High level of integrity, confidentiality, and attention to detail.
- Energetic, self-motivated, and able to work under pressure to meet deadlines.
- A passion for education and willingness to participate in the broader life of the school.
- Candidates must be willing to support the Christian ethos of this school.
Application Process
Apply to the Executive Head by sending:
- A full CV
- A one-page statement on your professional and personal strengths
- Names and contact details of at least three referees
All prospective candidates must consent to undergo credit, criminal, child safeguarding, and sex offender checks, and must be successfully cleared.
Email: maria@pharosrecruitment.co.za
Position Available: Bursar
Closing Date: 30 October 2026
Waterberg Academy is an equal opportunity employer. Failure to meet the minimum requirements of the advertised post will result in applicants automatically disqualifying themselves from consideration. An application will not necessarily entitle the applicant to a response, appointment or an interview. Only short-listed applicants will be contacted. Waterberg Academy reserves the right not to proceed with filling the post.
Waterberg Academy, in line with POPIA (Protection of Personal Information Act) will attempt to ensure the confidentiality of all applicants for this role. All reasonable measures will be in place to protect personal information but will be used in the recruitment, selection, and reporting process. By submitting your application for this position, you are recognising and accepting this disclaimer.
ISASA