The Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHeS) is a University and Centre of Excellence in health education, research, and innovation whose mission is to advance knowledge, professional competencies, skills, and innovations in health sciences through high-quality student-centred and innovative education and research that responds to and influences the global/national policy, health, and development needs in an efficient, sustainable, and result oriented manner.
KUHeS is actively engaged in a wide range of research programmes and initiatives and currently manages a substantial portfolio of externally funded research projects, grants and strategic partnerships supported by various local and international funding agencies and development partners. The growing volume and complexity of externally funded projects and grants has increased the need for dedicated financial management capacity to ensure effective stewardship of research funds, compliance with funding conditions, timely financial reporting, and sound financial accountability.
In response to this need, the University is inviting applications from suitably qualified and experienced candidates for appointment to the following non-established positions.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Lilongwe
- Category: Education
- Closing Date: 2026-09-11
Key Responsibilities
- The job entails management of the day-to-day financial transactions of the grants and involves budgeting, transaction processing, accounting, expenditure monitoring and control, financial reporting and coordination of audits. The Finance Officer will also be responsible for ensuring compliance to grant regulations, terms and conditions and relevant financial policies.
- The Finance Officer will, in collaboration with the Principal Investigator, regularly liaise with the KUHeS Finance Manager in all financial issues.
- The position exists specifically to support project and research-related financial management functions and will be funded from research income and project-specific funding. It will therefore not form part of the University’s established staff complement, and appointments will be subject to the availability and continuity of research funding.
Requirements
- Grade: KU8
- Department: Directorate of Finance and Investments
- Responsible to: Finance Manager
- Responsible for: Assistant Finance Officer
- Contract Duration: 2 years
- Employment type: Full-Time, non-established
Salary
Not specified
How to Apply
Apply by email: hr@kuhes.ac.mw
Apply online: www.kuhs.ac.mw
Apply online: www.kuhs.ac.mw
About the Company
The Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHeS) is a public university in Malawi. It was created in 2019 by separating and then merging the College of Medicine and the Kamuzu College of Nursing from the University of Malawi. The Faculty of Medicine of KUHeS is the only medical school in Malawi.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required for a Finance Officer role at a public university like Kamuzu University of Health Sciences in Malawi?
Applicants usually need a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field from a Malawian university or equivalent accredited institution. A professional qualification such as ACCA, CIMA, or CPA (Malawi) is highly preferred, and registration with the Malawi Institute of Accountants (MIA) is often expected for senior finance roles in public institutions.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Finance Officer at a public university in Malawi?
Daily tasks include processing payments, maintaining financial records in line with Public Financial Management Act (PFMA) requirements, preparing monthly financial reports, and supporting budget monitoring and internal audits. You’ll also liaise with the Ministry of Finance and National Treasury on compliance matters and assist academic departments with financial queries and procurement documentation.
How does the work culture and professional expectations for Finance Officers differ in Malawian public universities compared to private sector roles?
Public universities in Malawi emphasise adherence to civil service protocols, hierarchical reporting, and strict compliance with national financial regulations and audit standards. Punctuality, formal communication, respect for seniority, and patience in navigating bureaucratic processes are widely valued — and delays due to administrative approvals or system limitations are common and understood.
What realistic career progression paths exist for a Finance Officer at a Malawian public university?
With experience and further qualifications, officers may progress to Senior Finance Officer, Finance Manager, or Head of Finance — roles often requiring MIA membership and proven audit readiness. Some transition into broader institutional leadership, such as Deputy Registrar (Finance & Administration), especially after completing postgraduate studies or participating in government-sponsored leadership training programmes.
What benefits — such as leave, medical aid, and pension — can a Finance Officer expect when employed by a public university in Malawi?
Employees are covered under the National Pension Scheme (NPS) with mandatory employer and employee contributions, and entitled to 30 days’ annual leave plus public holidays per the Employment Act. Medical benefits typically include access to government health facilities and limited reimbursement schemes, though comprehensive private medical aid is rare unless negotiated separately through unions or collective bargaining agreements.