Executive Director

National Health Laboratory Service; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 500 000 - 600 000; Full time

Job summary

A public health organization in Johannesburg seeks an Executive Director to oversee the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD). The role demands strategic leadership, management of epidemiological services, and collaboration with various stakeholders. Candidates should possess an advanced degree and extensive management experience in communicable diseases. The position is a five-year fixed-term contract with responsibilities including budgeting, team building, and implementing disease monitoring strategies.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 15 years’ experience in Communicable Diseases.
• 5 years at Senior Management level in pathology or diagnostic environment.
• Registration with HPCSA required.

Responsibilities

• Develop annual strategy and operational plan for NICD.
• Oversee all operational functions including research and laboratory services.
• Manage and mentor a high-performing team.

Skills

Management qualification

Knowledge of Epidemiology

Solid research methodology

Education

BCHB with postgraduate in public health/pathology

PHD in Medical Science

Job description

Job Title: Executive Director - NICD

Division: Office of the CEO

Location: Sandringham, Johannesburg

Pay Grade: E5 (five year fixed-term contract)

Reference number: EDNICD-12/25-001-01

The NHLS invites suitably qualified and experienced leaders to apply for the Executive Director: NICD

The ideal candidate will provide strategic direction, management oversight, and monitoring of the NHLS's NICD division to ensure the provision of epidemiological and microbiological services that meet the country's health needs. Ensure scientific excellence through the provision of epidemiological and microbiological services that meet the health needs of the country. Foster collaboration with government and international partners and manages resources effectively to protect public health.

Responsibilities

• Develop an annual strategy and operational plan for NICD, aligned with business needs
• Contribute as a member of the executive management team.
• Represent the institute at national and international forums, advocating for resources and policy support.
• Contribute to the sustained growth and development of the NICD through maintaining a stable pipeline of projects.
• Provide strategic direction of surveillance and monitoring of communicable diseases within South Africa to ensure the provision of comprehensive and accurate data for provision to the Department of Health.
• Oversee all operational functions, including research, epidemiology, laboratory services, public health programs, and administration.
• Oversee effective communication and consulting, including outbreak management, in order to guide public health authorities on appropriate policies and interventions.
• Oversee the implementation of suitable infectious diseases disaster planning strategies and systems for the Department of Health.
• Oversee dissemination of scientific findings through publications, conferences, and policy briefs.
• Contribute to optimal cooperation with various stakeholders and build strong relationships with international bodies, including serving on various committees and forums to provide relevant expertise and guidance.
• Identify and manage research programmes of the Institute to ensure alignment with the Public Health mission and address any issues related to local and international health issues.
• Develop and manage the institute’s budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources
• Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing team within the NICD.
• Oversee teaching, training, and development of the Technologists, Scientists, and Medical personnel.
• Oversee effective quality management in order to comply with all quality assurance standards and policies.
• Serves on various committees and forums, including the World Health Programmes, the National Advisory Group on Immunisation, and the AIDS Advisory Committees.
• Oversee the process of grant application and canvassing of various bodies for funds to ensure the generation of sufficient research funds to allow the NICD to achieve its objectives.

Minimum Requirements

• BCHB 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) years’ experience with special training in Communicable Diseases, of which 5 years’ experience must have been spent at a Senior Management level in pathology and or diagnostic environment and or Communicable Diseases.

Advantageous

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

Attributes

• Inspire a sense of vision,purpose, and direction.
• Build organisational capability to deliver greater results.
• Exemplifies personaldrive and integrity by adhering to and promoting NHLS values and aligning processes accordingly.
• Understand the organisation’s direction and role within government and align activities with NHLS strategies.

Closing Date: 12 December 2025

Enquiries for the position may be directed to Nompilo Phungula @ [phone], or e-mail application to [e-mail]