Senior Manager: Forensic Investigations

Listing reference: nwu_003668
Listing status: Online
Apply by: 11 August 2025
Position summary
Industry: Education & Training
Job category: University and Academy
Location: Potchefstroom
Contract: Fixed Term Contract
Remuneration: The annual total remuneration package will be commensurate with the level of appointment as advertised and in line with the NWU policy guidelines.
About our company
NWU
Introduction
NORTH-WEST UNIVERSITY (POTCHEFSTROOM CAMPUS) | DEPARTMENT: INTERNAL AUDIT| POSITION NUMBER: TBC| VACANCY SENIOR MANAGER: FORENSIC INVESTIGATIONS PEROMNES GRADE: 6 EMPLOYMENT TYPE: SIX (6) MONTH FIXED TERM APPOINTMENT
Job description

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION

To lead and manage the forensic investigation function by initiating, planning, executing, and reporting on complex forensic investigations relating to fraud, corruption, financial misconduct, irregularities, and unethical conduct. The incumbent will be required to ensure compliance with applicable legislation and standards and to mitigate fraud risk and promote ethical governance

 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Forensic Investigation Management

                          Plan and manage forensic investigations into allegations of fraud, corruption, financial misconduct, and other irregularities.

                          Lead the development and implementation of investigative procedures and methodologies.

                          Collect, preserve, and analyse evidence in accordance with legislative and ethical standards.

                          Conduct interviews, forensic analysis, and prepare detailed investigative reports for internal and/or external use (including for disciplinary, civil or criminal proceedings).

                          Report on the progress of investigations with Council Committees as required.

 

Governance and Legal Compliance

                          Ensure all investigations are compliant with applicable legislation, regulations, policies and procedures, etc.

                          Liaise with law enforcement (e.g. SAPS, Hawks, etc.), prosecutorial authorities, and regulatory bodies when necessary

 

Fraud Risk Management

                          Identify fraud trends and emerging risks and recommend controls to mitigate exposure.

                          Assist in prevention of fraud, ethics awareness, and whistleblowing initiatives.

                          Advice on internal controls and governance enhancements based on investigation findings

 

Reporting and Stakeholder Management

                          Draft clear, concise, and legally sound reports for executive management, audit and risk committee, Council, and external authorities.

                          Manage stakeholder relationships including internal departments, legal, people and culture, external auditors, law enforcement, and Council Committees.

                          Present findings and recommendations to internal stakeholders and governance structures.

 

Team and Resource Management

                          Manage a team of investigators and forensic analysts (where applicable), including external service providers.

                          Mentor and provide professional guidance to junior investigators.

                          Ensure proper resource planning and manage service providers (e.g., forensic consultants or digital specialists).

Minimum requirements

                          A postgraduate qualification in Forensic Accounting, Accounting and Auditing, Law, Criminal Justice, or related field (NQF level 8).

                          A minimum of six (6) to eight (8) years’ specialist experience in forensic investigations.

                          Experience in leading complex investigations in a regulated environment.

                          Experience in working with or within law enforcement, audit, legal, or regulatory bodies.

                          Registration as a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) or Certified Forensic Practitioner (ICFP).

                          Registration with the SA Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) / the Legal Practices Council (LPC) or other related professional bodies.

              

               ADDED ADVANTAGES:

                          Admission as an Attorney or Advocate.      

              

   KEY FUNCTIONAL/TECHNICAL AND BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES:

                          Strong forensic and analytical skills.

                          Knowledge of forensic methodologies and legislation.

                          Ethical integrity and discretion.

                          Excellent interviewing and evidence gathering skills.

                          Strong verbal and written communication.

                          Legal acumen and understanding of criminal/civil procedures.

                          Report writing and presentation skills.

                          Project and case management.

                          Emotional intelligence and resilience.

                          Leading evidence in disciplinary and criminal/civil matters, where applicable.

 

REMUNERATION:

The annual total remuneration package will be commensurate with the level of appointment as advertised and in line with the NWU policy guidelines.

 

 

ENQUIRIES REGARDING JOB CONTENT MAY BE DIRECTED TO:                      Mrs Madelein Van der Merwe on 018 285 2802

ENQUIRIES REGARDING RECRUITMENT PROCESS MAY BE DIRECTED TO:    Ms Goitsemang Ntsoelengoe on 018 299 2752

CLOSING DATE:                                                                                                               11 August 2025

PLANNED COMMENCEMENT OF DUTIES:                                                             As soon as possible

 

 

Kindly take note: applications must be submitted online through the official nwu vacancy website. Incomplete applications and those submitted through any other platform will not be considered.

 

The University subscribes to and applies the principles of Employment Equity (EE) Act and is committed to transformation. Preference will be given to candidates from the designated groups, in accordance with the principles of the EE Act and NWU Employment Equity Plan.

 

The University reserves the right not to make an appointment. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only.

If you are not contacted within two months from the closing date of this advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful.

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