Oversee a comprehensive range of critical duties, including the development and implementation of strategic initiatives, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to execute projects, monitor progress, and deliver measurable outcomes. Analyze performance data to identify trends, address inefficiencies, and optimize operational workflows. Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement within the team. Lead key decision-making processes, providing expert guidance to senior leadership on high-impact matters. Maintain compliance with industry regulations and internal policies while upholding the highest standards of professionalism and ethical conduct.
The ideal candidate will undertake the following duties and responsibilities:
Offering expert strategic financial planning and executing the University Budget(s) represent core responsibilities of this role.
We are tasked with creating, executing, and overseeing the rollout of robust financial, accounting, and administrative policies and procedures to guarantee the optimal and responsible use of university resources.
Compiling statutory financial statements and annual reports in compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and applicable regulatory requirements is a key responsibility.
Serving as a crucial link between internal and external auditors, this role ensures the accuracy and reliability of financial reporting while maintaining strict adherence to regulatory standards and organizational policies.
The University must adhere to all statutory reporting obligations and maintain compliance with both national and international regulations.
The position involves managing the department’s daily functions and offering strategic guidance to leadership on optimizing resource allocation for the institution.
Overseeing the university’s revenue collection processes and ensuring the meticulous tracking and strategic utilization of research grants and institutional endowments are central responsibilities.
Overseeing the finance and accounting team, providing mentorship, and conducting performance evaluations are key responsibilities of this role.
Offering administrative assistance to every department within the University while ensuring strict adherence to established financial policies and procedures.
Crafting informative, pertinent, and punctual management reports in alignment with the University calendar.
The position also encompasses the execution of other official responsibilities as may be assigned by the University’s management team.
A strong candidate will possess a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, coupled with at least three years of hands-on experience in a comparable role. Proficiency in industry-standard software and tools is essential, along with exceptional problem-solving abilities and meticulous attention to detail. Prior leadership or project management experience is highly valued, as is the capacity to collaborate effectively within cross-functional teams. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, are required to convey complex ideas clearly and concisely.
Candidates must meet the following qualifications: a bachelor’s degree or higher in a relevant field, along with at least three years of professional experience in a comparable role. Additionally, proficiency in industry-standard software and tools, as well as strong written and verbal communication skills, are essential. The ideal candidate will demonstrate problem-solving abilities, adaptability to changing priorities, and a commitment to continuous learning.
A recognized university must confer a Master’s Degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, Commerce, Economics, or a closely related discipline.
Applicants must possess a recognized bachelor’s degree in a business discipline, such as Commerce, Business Management, Business Administration, or an equivalent qualification from an accredited university.
A candidate must possess a CPA (K) qualification, be an ARCA finalist, or hold an equivalent professional accounting certification, and additionally, be a member of the relevant Professional Body.
Holding current registration with a pertinent professional organization and maintaining good standing within that body are essential requirements.
With a minimum of five years of hands-on experience in finance, accounting, budgeting, auditing, or financial management—ideally gained within an academic, public sector, or comparable institutional setting—applicants should demonstrate a strong background in these areas.
Proficiency in financial management regulations, accounting standards, and internal control systems is required.
Seeking a candidate with demonstrated expertise in ERP systems and financial management software, complemented by a strong understanding of applicable Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools. The ideal applicant will showcase a commitment to ongoing professional growth through continuous training and development initiatives.
Proven expertise in analytical thinking, financial reporting, and strategic planning is required.
Personal attributes
The ideal applicant must exhibit unwavering integrity and maintain a high standard of professionalism in all aspects of their role.
Demonstrates exceptional leadership and supervisory capabilities with a proven track record of guiding teams effectively. Exhibits strong interpersonal skills, fostering collaborative relationships, and communicates with clarity and professionalism to ensure alignment and productivity.
Demonstrates exceptional organizational skills alongside strong problem-solving capabilities.
Compensation for this position is structured competitively, reflecting experience, qualifications, and performance. The role offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement contributions, and professional development opportunities. Additionally, eligible employees may receive performance-based bonuses, paid time off, and other incentives designed to support work-life balance and long-term career growth.
Must thrive in fast-paced environments while consistently delivering results within established timeframes.
Maintaining a high degree of precision, reliability, and meticulous focus is essential.
Demonstrates exceptional ability to collaborate effectively within a team environment while upholding an unwavering dedication to delivering outstanding service quality.
Applications and related documents should be directed to the designated recipient or department as specified in the application instructions.
The Vice Chancellor of PLEA is responsible for providing strategic leadership and overseeing the overall management and administration of the institution. This senior role involves setting the academic vision, ensuring adherence to regulatory standards, and fostering an environment conducive to high-quality education and research. Additionally, the Vice Chancellor oversees financial stewardship, resource allocation, and stakeholder engagement to advance the university’s mission and long-term objectives. The position requires extensive experience in higher education leadership, a track record of academic excellence, and strong interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with faculty, staff, students, and external partners. Responsibilities include policy development, institutional planning, and representing the university in national and international forums.
The Vice Chancellor of the Presbyterian University of East Africa can be contacted via email at vc@puea.ac.ke.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND , MBA/MSc/MA , Professional Certificate
Experience Required
5 years
