Our client is seeking an exceptional Executive to provide strategic leadership, operational oversight, and scientific direction. This is a pivotal national role responsible for safeguarding South Africa’s public health through world?class epidemiological and microbiological services.
As the executive leader, you will guide national disease surveillance, strengthen outbreak response, advance scientific research, and foster collaboration with government, global partners, and the broader public health community. Your leadership will directly influence national health policy, preparedness, and scientific innovation.

• KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
  
  • Develop and implement the annual strategy and operational plan aligned with national health priorities.
  • Contribute as a key member of the Executive Management Team.
  • Represent at national and international forums, advocating for resources, partnerships, and policy support.
  • Drive sustainable growth by maintaining a robust pipeline of scientific and public health projects.
• Provide strategic oversight of national surveillance and monitoring of communicable diseases.
  • Ensure the delivery of accurate, comprehensive epidemiological data to the Department of Health.
  • Guide outbreak management and public health interventions through expert communication and consultation.
  • Oversee infectious disease disaster planning strategies and systems for national preparedness.
• Oversee all operational functions, including research, epidemiology, laboratory services, public health programmes, and administration.
  • Ensure the dissemination of scientific findings through publications, conferences, and policy briefs.
  • Identify, manage, and align research programmes with national and global public health priorities.
  • Uphold rigorous quality management standards across all units.
• Build strong relationships with government, international partners, and scientific bodies.
  • Serve on key national and global committees, including World Health Programmes, the National Advisory Group on Immunisation, and AIDS Advisory Committees.
  • Strengthen cooperation with stakeholders to enhance public health impact and scientific advancement
• • Develop and manage the budget, ensuring efficient and strategic resource allocation.
  • Lead grant applications and engage donors and partners to secure research funding and support objectives.
• • Build, mentor, and inspire a high?performing team of scientists, technologists, medical professionals, and public health experts.
  • Oversee teaching, training, and professional development initiatives to strengthen national scientific capacity

Non-negotiables:

MBCHB with an additional postgraduate degree in public health/communicable disease/pathology with registration with HPCSA.
OR
PHD in Medical Science registered with HPCSA.
Minimum of fifteen (15) experience with special training in Communicable Diseases, of which 5 experience must have been spent at a Senior Management level in pathology and or diagnostic
environment and or Communicable Diseases.

Advantage:

Management qualification
Knowledge of Epidemiology
Solid research methodology
Experience in managing a large department or unit budget

Skills / Attributes:

Visionary
Results driven
Process driven
Strategic

Communication

Leadership