After five years, experienced public sector CFO Jason O’Hara will be parliament’s new finance boss.
Parliament has appointed Jason O’Hara as its new CFO, after five years without one. Spokesperson Moloto Mothapo explained in a statement that Jason will ensure continued financial stability, improved financial controls and strengthened governance.
“He joins parliament during the most critical period in which the institution is engaged with the rebuilding project following the fire incident, preparations for the end of the sixth term and arrangements for the new, seventh term of parliament after next year’s election.”
Jason most recently served as the interim CFO of the National Arts Council of South Africa. He previously served as the CFO of the Eastern Cape Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, as well as the Department of Education. He resigned in February 2020, which the department described as “a culmination of an amicable resolution of differences”.
At the time, he was on precautionary suspension due to allegations of administrative misconduct at the department. “We understand all these matters relating to his charges and suspension. They were clarified and consequently, all charges were dropped and he was paid compensation,” Moloto said.
Jason has over 20 years’ working experience, of which he spent 16 years serving in senior management positions. He completed his articles at KPMG in Johannesburg, and went on to work for three of the largest accounting firms in the world.
Moloto explained that Jason’s wealth of experience and expertise will help the institution in deepening strong relationships with stakeholders and “enhancing a culture of financial discipline and transparency to ensure the institution’s long-term financial sustainability and success”.
