Chief Accounts & Finance Officer

Designation : Chief Accounts & Finance Officer (CAFO)

Educational Qualification :

Chartered Accountant (CA) / Cost & Management Accountant (CMA) / MBA (Finance) / M.Com from a recognized university or institute.

Strong academic background with consistently good academic record.

Additional certifications in financial management, taxation, audit, ERP systems, or compliance will be an added advantage.

Experience :

Minimum 1015 years of relevant experience in finance, accounts, audit, and compliance.

At least 3 years of mandatory experience in an academic institution / university / higher education setup.

Proven experience in handling large-scale institutional finance operations.

Strong exposure to statutory compliance, audits, budgeting, and financial governance.

Experience working with regulatory bodies such as UGC, AICTE, NAAC, and other statutory authorities is highly desirable.

Role Summary :

The Chief Accounts & Finance Officer (CAFO) will provide strategic and operational leadership for the universitys finance and accounts function. The role is responsible for financial planning, budgeting, accounting, compliance, audits, and financial governance. The CAFO will ensure financial discipline, transparency, regulatory compliance, and efficient utilization of resources in alignment with the universitys academic and institutional objectives.

Roles and Responsibilities:

Financial Planning & Budgeting

Develop and manage annual budgets for the university and its constituent schools.

Monitor budget utilization and ensure cost control across departments.

Provide financial forecasts, MIS reports, and variance analysis to management.

Support strategic financial planning aligned with institutional growth plans.

Accounting & Financial Operations

Oversee day-to-day accounting operations including:

General ledger

Accounts payable and receivable

Payroll coordination

Fixed assets management

Ensure accurate and timely preparation of financial statements.

Maintain proper books of accounts as per applicable accounting standards.

Compliance, Audit & Governance

Ensure compliance with:

Statutory requirements

Income Tax, GST, PF, ESI, and other applicable laws

UGC / AICTE / NAAC financial norms

Coordinate internal and external audits and ensure timely closure of audit observations.

Support inspections, audits, and financial reporting required by regulatory bodies.

Academic Finance & Grants Management

Manage finances related to:

Academic programs

Research projects

Grants, funds, and endowments

Monitor utilization of research grants and sponsored project funds.

Ensure proper documentation and reporting for funded projects.

ERP, Systems & Process Improvement

Oversee implementation and effective use of:

Finance ERP systems

Accounting and reporting tools

Strengthen internal controls and financial processes.

Drive digitization, automation, and process efficiency initiatives.

Stakeholder Coordination & Advisory Role

Work closely with:

Vice Chancellor / Registrar / Deans

Academic and administrative departments

Provide financial advisory support for institutional decision-making.

Coordinate with banks, auditors, consultants, and government authorities.

Required Skills & Expertise:

Strong knowledge of accounting, finance, taxation, and audit practices.

In-depth understanding of university finance and regulatory frameworks.

Excellent analytical, reporting, and financial management skills.

Hands-on experience with ERP systems and digital finance platforms.

Strong leadership and team management capabilities.

Personal Attributes :

High integrity and ethical standards.

Strategic thinker with attention to detail.

Strong decision-making and problem-solving abilities.

Ability to work collaboratively in an academic environment.

Calm and composed under regulatory and audit pressures.

Performance Indicators (KPIs):

Budget adherence and financial discipline.

Accuracy and timeliness of financial reporting.

Audit outcomes and compliance status.

Effectiveness of financial controls and processes.

Support to academic and institutional growth initiatives.

Working Conditions:

Full-time, on-campus leadership role.

Active participation in university governance and statutory committees.

Occasional interaction with auditors, regulators, banks, and funding agencies.