FINANCE FUNCTIONAL COMPETENCIES AND BEHAVIOURAL INDICATORS
The five finance functional competencies included in the Administrative Competency Framework are designed to identify those behaviours that
indicate an individual’s ability to perform successfully in a financially-oriented role. It should be noted that behaviours differ from skills, which
are usually very task-specific, i.e. maintain cashbooks, and are included in the job description, which is then supported by these
competencies.
Competency Behaviour Indicators
Contextual Knowledge Understands the financial framework in which the University operates
Is aware of and participates as appropriate in the University’s annual budgeting activity
Is aware of the University’s Long Term Financial Plan, and associated strategic plans
Understands and adheres to the University’s financial policies, procedures and standard practices
Is aware of the configuration of the University’s financial services, and the roles of key financial staff
Understands the structure of the University’s general ledger, and the relationship with subsidiary ledgers
Working knowledge of the overall functionality of the University’s financial IT systems
Financial Acumen Demonstrates knowledge of financial terminology, standards, principles and practices, as relevant to the
successful delivery of the individual role
Has an awareness and understanding of the relevant laws and regulations applicable to financial practice
General knowledge of accounting theory, techniques, processes and procedures including accrual, obligation, and
cost
Understands budget practices and concepts, and their applications in various settings
Has a working knowledge of cash-flow management and debt administration
Has an understanding of financial risks, and potential impacts
Is aware of and adheres to University and legal responsibilities in terms of financial records management
and retention, to support audit activity and robust practice
Analysis and Reporting Is able to gather, interpret and analyse financial information to verify facts or substantiate a business case
Can produce and present financial data as required, including a level of detail appropriate to the needs of
the audience
Is able to break down complex financial data into meaningful and manageable components
Provides financial advice to internal and external customers, in a timely and courteous manner
Recognises financial trends and patterns for own area of activity, utilizes findings to support forecasting
and budget-setting
Political Acumen Is familiar with how the University applies for and receives funding, and the basic premise of how the
total funding received is determined
Understands the University’s accountabilities and obligations to the funding bodies
Is aware of and understands the legislation the dictates how the University is funded
Understands the financial and political climate in which the University operates
Balances the need to disclose information and the requirement to maintain confidentiality
Personal Accountability Understands own and others’ roles and responsibilities, and contribution to financial processes
Possesses well developed and accurate numerical skills, with strong attention to detail
Monitors accuracy of own financial activity, rectifies errors as detected or alerts supervisor if unable to rectify
Complies with general, legal and University financial standards and practices
Continuously reviews and seeks to improve efficiency of financial processes and practices
Aware of and adheres to University deadlines for all relevant aspects of financial processing
Seeks feedback on the quality of own work, and amends working practices as necessary
Ensures confidential or sensitive information is safe guarded
Seeks to develop skills and abilities, participating in relevant training when available
