Chief Financial Officer

About the role

Lyceum College is looking for a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to serve as the second-in-command to the CEO. The CFO provides strategic financial leadership, operational oversight and commercial direction, ensuring long-term financial sustainability, strong governance, regulatory compliance and effective execution of the institution's strategy. The role reports directly to the CEO and acts as the primary financial and operational advisor.

Key responsibilities

• Act as 2IC to the CEO, develop long-term financial strategies and advise on risk, funding, sustainability modelling and capital allocation
• Lead annual budgeting, rolling forecasts and scenario planning; monitor budgets and set up performance dashboards and KPIs
• Oversee debtors, creditors, billing and revenue, strengthen internal controls, drive revenue optimisation and cost control
• Ensure compliance with the Companies Act, tax law, higher education regulations and POPIA, and oversee financial risk and fraud prevention
• Manage cash flow forecasts, working capital, pricing and fee structures, and advise on capital expenditure
• Lead engagement with external auditors, prepare financial reports for Exco and the Board, maintain bank relationships and submit statutory returns

Required profile

• Qualified Chartered Accountant (CA(SA)) or equivalent recognised professional qualification (required)
• Postgraduate qualification in Finance, Accounting or Business Administration (advantageous)
• Minimum 8-12 years' progressive experience in financial leadership, including executive-level exposure
• Experience in regulated or higher education environments is advantageous

Required skills

• Budgeting, forecasting, financial modelling and performance reporting
• Advanced financial modelling and analytical capability
• Strong commercial acumen, strategic thinking and stakeholder management
• Deep understanding of governance, compliance and internal controls