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PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES You must now set out the major end results expected of the incumbent in the

position and the actions which produce these results. This is the most essential section of the job description. It consists of approximately 5 to 8 brief (numbered) statements of what the job is designed to do, what the position is expected to impact upon. The separate principal accountabilities are pieces of the jobs total accountability as summarised in the Accountability Objective. They should be written in order of importance. Accountabilities infer action. Each accountability should relate to one specific activity or duty or responsibility. Prinicpal accountabilities are derived from the information in Nature and Scope. The main points made about the position in that section should be paralleled by principal accountabilities. Most importantly, the principal accountabilities should indicate these areas where an incumbants performance can be evaluated. As a general guide if it cant be evaluated, dont include it. Format of Accountability Statements Each begins with an end result that describes WHAT is to be achieved in general terms the Objectives. Each contains a statement that describes HOW action is taken in specific terms the Means. Example for an Accounts Payable Clerk: End result (WHAT?) Action (HOW?) Facilitates corect payment of creditors. by validating invoices and other claim documents and preparing claim vouchers certifying payments to creditors.

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA This should state the minimum specific skills and experience that are essential for competent performance. This will include educational requirements, experience required and demonstrated abilities. DESIRABLE CRITERIA This should state the specific skills that are highly desirable, but not essential for competent performance. These may be skills that can be acquired/developed once in the position - eg knowledge of Peoplesoft, experience in a University environment The essential and desirable criteria are the tools used for shortlising candidates for interview and therefore must be measurable.

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