Wits Commercial Enterprise invites interested and suitably qualified candidates to apply for the position of Grant Administrator within the Research & Consulting Services unit. This role is offered on a one-year fixed-term contract, commencing on 1 February 2026, and is linked to the Danish-funded project Digital Democracy Initiative – Project 1: Enabling and Amplifying Action for Civic Space and Inclusive Democracy. The successful candidate will be responsible for supporting project implementation and financial administration while ensuring full compliance with EU grant regulations and reporting requirements.

Position: Grant Administrator
Duration: One-Year Fixed-Term Contract
Start Date: 1 February 2026
Reporting To: Senior Project Co-ordinator, Research & Consulting Services
Closing Date: 12 January 2026 (Close of Business)

The position requires a highly organised and detail-oriented individual with strong financial and administrative skills. Key responsibilities include managing project expenditure, maintaining accurate records, supporting procurement and payments, liaising with project partners, and assisting with financial reporting and audits. A relevant bachelor’s degree and a minimum of two to three years’ experience in grant or financial administration, preferably within EU-funded projects, are essential for this role.

Position Title: Grant Administrator
Research & Consulting Services

Organisation

Wits Commercial Enterprise (Pty) Ltd (“Wits Enterprise”),
a wholly owned subsidiary of the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg

Reporting To

Senior Project Co-ordinator
Research & Consulting Services

Contract Term / Type

One-Year Fixed-Term Contract
Start Date: 1 February 2026

Purpose / Job Description

Wits Commercial Enterprise (Pty) Ltd is seeking a highly organised and detail-oriented Grant Administrator to support the implementation and financial administration of a Danish-funded project titled:

“Digital Democracy Initiative – Project 1: Enabling and Amplifying Action for Civic Space and Inclusive Democracy.”

The successful candidate will play a key role in ensuring compliance with EU grant regulations, supporting project partners, and maintaining accurate financial and administrative records throughout the project lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day administrative and financial activities related to the project
• Ensure compliance with EU funding rules, grant agreements, and reporting requirements
• Monitor and track project expenditure and financial forecasts against the approved budget, and flag risks or deviations
• Manage procurement processes, supplier onboarding, and payments
• Maintain accurate project records, contracts, and supporting documentation
• Collect, verify, and integrate financial and compliance documentation from project partners
• Assist with the preparation and submission of interim and final financial reports
• Liaise with project partners, including CIVICUS, OpenUp, and CTIN
• Support project meetings, audits, and reporting processes, including preparation of documentation
• Provide general administrative support to the Project Co-ordinator and project team

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field
• Minimum of 2–3 years’ experience in grant or financial administration, preferably within EU-funded projects
• Strong financial management and budgeting skills

Competencies (Knowledge, Skills, and Behaviours)

• Excellent attention to detail and strong organisational skills
• Ability to multitask and work effectively in a dynamic environment
• Proficiency in MS Office, particularly Excel (experience with financial management systems is an advantage)
• Strong written and verbal communication skills

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit:

• A covering letter clearly outlining relevant skills and experience and indicating the position applied for
• A detailed CV
• The names and contact details of at least three (3) references

How to Apply

Interested candidates are invited to submit a detailed application consisting of a covering letter clearly outlining relevant skills and experience, a comprehensive curriculum vitae, and the names and contact details of at least three referees. The covering letter should clearly indicate the position being applied for.

Applications must be submitted online via the following link:
https://wits-enterprise.co.za/vacancies/62412/grant-administrator/

Late or incomplete applications will not be considered, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Enquiries

For queries, please contact:
Sonti Masike
Executive PA / HR Officer
[email protected]

Closing Date: 12 January 2026 (Close of Business)

Wits Commercial Enterprise is committed to the principles of employment equity and reserves the right not to make an appointment.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.