Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

Are you an experienced financial leader with a passion for driving strategic growth and maximizing financial performance? Zambian Open University (ZAOU) is seeking a dynamic and results-driven Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to join our executive team and play a pivotal role in shaping our financial strategy and success.

The Zambian Open University (ZAOU) is an institution of high standing both locally and internationally, whose vision is “to be an internationally recognized University providing quality education through full-time, Open and distance, and blended learning’’.

Role Overview: As the CFO of ZAOU, you will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of financial management, and will report directly to the Vice Chancellor. Your primary duties will include:

• Financial Planning & Analysis: Develop and implement financial plans, budgets, and forecasts to support strategic initiatives and business goals.
• Financial Reporting: Prepare accurate and timely financial statements, reports, and analyses for internal stakeholders, board members, and external partners.
• Risk Management: Identify and mitigate financial risks through effective risk management strategies, internal controls, and compliance measures.
• Cash Flow Management: Optimize cash flow, working capital, and capital
• allocation to support operational needs and growth opportunities.
• Investment Strategy: Evaluate investment opportunities, mergers, acquisitions, and divestitures to drive long-term value creation and profitability.
• Cost Management: Analyze cost structures, identify cost-saving opportunities, and implement cost-control measures to improve efficiency and profitability.
• Financial Compliance: Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, accounting standards, and financial best practices.
• Team Leadership: Lead and mentor a high-performing finance team, fostering a
• culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Chartered Accountant and member of ZICA
• Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) is an added advantage.
• 10 years proven experience as a Chief Financial Officer or senior finance executive in a dynamic and growth-oriented organization.
• Strong financial acumen, analytical skills, and strategic thinking capabilities.
• Demonstrated leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and financial modeling.
• Knowledge of financial regulations, compliance requirements, and risk
• management practices.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, results-driven environment and drive
• organizational change.

Method of Application

Candidates meeting the stated requirements are required to submit their applications comprising the following:

a) Letter of application;

b) Curriculum Vitae;

c) Certified copies of relevant academic and professional certificates;

d) Names, Cell Phone numbers, E-mail and postal addresses of three (3) referees, two (2)

of whom must be professional referees.

All applications should be addressed to:

The Registrar

Zambian Open University

Newfoundland Campus Farm

Plot No. 7096

P. o. Box 31925 LUSAKA WEST