Job Opportunity: Deputy Head (Sub-District North) at eThekwini Municipality

eThekwini Municipality invites applications for the position of Deputy Head (Sub-District North) within the Health Department. This permanent, full-time role, based in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, offers an exciting opportunity for a seasoned professional to play a pivotal role in the efficient delivery of Primary Health Care Services, Environmental Health Services, and Community Health Services. The closing date for applications is February 21, 2025.

Job Purpose:

The Deputy Head (Sub-District North) will be responsible for overseeing the planning, management, and direction of key performance areas and result indicators related to the delivery of comprehensive health services. This includes ensuring that Primary Health Care, Environmental Health Services, and Community Health Services are executed effectively, while also managing administrative functions and resources.

Key Responsibilities:

• Research and Best Practices: Conduct research to identify best practices in Primary Health Care services. Assess the appropriateness of existing policies and procedures, and update them as needed.
• Personnel Management: Lead and manage the performance of personnel, ensuring high levels of productivity and efficiency within the section.
• Strategic Planning: Lead workshops on strategic planning, particularly around disease prevalence (e.g., HIV/AIDS), and communicate findings and intervention strategies to internal and external stakeholders.
• Environmental Health Strategy: Manage and define the Environmental Health Strategy, focusing on service delivery and setting short- to medium-term objectives for the functionality.
• Nursing Services Management: Develop and implement strategies for Nursing Services, ensuring a comprehensive approach to Primary Health Care service provision.
• Occupational Health and Safety: Oversee the implementation of an effective occupational health and safety system for the sub-district.
• District Health System Coordination: Plan, manage, and coordinate the District Health System Strategy to ensure integrated service delivery.
• Funding and Business Plans: Compile detailed business plans to secure funding from national and international agencies for health initiatives.
• Financial Management: Manage financial resources by estimating and controlling capital and operating expenditures, ensuring alignment with approved budget allocations.
• Poverty Alleviation Projects: Plan, develop, and institute poverty alleviation projects for the sub-district, helping to address health inequalities within the community.

Key Competencies:

The ideal candidate should possess the following competencies:

• Communication: Ability to effectively communicate with stakeholders at all levels.
• Planning and Organising: Strong organisational skills to manage multiple health initiatives and priorities.
• Advocacy and Negotiation: Skilled in advocating for wellness and negotiating effectively with various stakeholders.
• Systems-Based Practice: Understanding of health systems and their interconnections for optimal service delivery.
• Conceptual Thinking: Ability to understand complex issues and develop actionable strategies.
• Financial Management: Proficiency in managing budgets and financial resources efficiently.
• Strategy Development & Implementation: Experience in developing and implementing strategic health initiatives.
• Organisational Awareness: Awareness of the municipality’s structure and the role of health services in the broader context.
• Service Delivery Orientation: Commitment to delivering high-quality services to the community.
• Action and Outcomes Orientation: Focus on achieving tangible results and continuous improvement.
• Direction Setting and Impact: Ability to provide clear direction and influence change.

Essential Requirements:

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Health Sciences (NQF Level 7).
• Current registration with Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) or South African Nursing Council (SANC).
• Valid motor vehicle driving license.
• A minimum of 8 years of experience at a management level, with at least 3 years in senior management.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in the management of public health services within a district health system is preferred.

Benefits:

The successful candidate will receive the following benefits:

• Housing Subsidy
• Leave
• Medical Aid
• Locomotion Allowance
• Pension Fund
• Negotiable Remuneration
• 13th Cheque

How to Apply:

Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications by February 21, 2025. For more information, please contact Human Capital at 031 322 8725 or 031 311 3630.

This is a wonderful opportunity for a dynamic and experienced health professional to lead and shape the health services in the Sub-District North area of eThekwini Municipality, making a lasting impact on the health and well-being of the community.