Operational Manager – Port Shepstone – Department Of Health

Operational Manager at the Department of Health in Port Shepstone, a crucial government job in South Africa

Published 10 September 2026
Closing Date Closed
Type
Opportunity

About the Role

The Department of Health is seeking a dedicated Operational Manager for the Specialty unit at Port Shepstone Hospital, located in the vibrant town of Port Shepstone, KwaZulu-Natal. This essential role is designed for a qualified individual who is passionate about obstetric care and is committed to providing high-quality healthcare services to the community. In this position, you will be at the forefront of managing obstetric emergencies and ensuring the safety and well-being of both mothers and babies during critical moments. Your leadership will make a significant difference in the lives of families, reflecting the vital role that public service plays in South Africa.

As an Operational Manager, you will be empowered to develop and implement policies and objectives for the obstetric unit, ensuring that best practices are followed and enhancing the quality of care provided. You will work as part of a multi-disciplinary team, collaborating to promote health initiatives and advocate for clients using Batho Pele principles. This role is not just about managing a unit; it’s about making an impact within our community by leading efforts that improve maternal health and safety outcomes.

About the Department

The Department of Health is dedicated to promoting the health and well-being of all South Africans. Its mission encompasses ensuring access to quality healthcare services, enhancing health systems, and improving the standards of care in hospitals and clinics across the province. By working within this department, you are contributing to a broader mission of public health, which aims to foster a healthier nation through effective healthcare services, education, and community outreach.

What You’ll Do

  • Diagnose and manage obstetric emergencies in the absence of a doctor.
  • Identify high-risk clients during ante-partum and post-partum periods and manage them according to hospital policy.
  • Develop and implement vision, mission, and objectives for the obstetric unit.
  • Conduct perinatal mortality reviews and meetings to improve outcomes.
  • Advocate for clients and ensure adherence to Batho Pele principles.
  • Participate in all obstetric programs, such as PPIP, PMTCT, and RHC.
  • Supervise and support nursing personnel in the obstetrics unit.
  • Monitor and promote infection prevention, patient safety, and quality improvement initiatives.
  • Evaluate staff performance and facilitate professional development opportunities.
  • Compile and submit necessary reports and statistics.

What You’ll Need

  • Grade 12 / Matric or equivalent.
  • Diploma / Degree in General Nursing Science and Midwifery Nursing Science.
  • A minimum of 7 years of clinical experience in a hospital environment, with at least 5 years in an obstetrics unit.
  • Current registration with SANC as a General Nurse and Midwife / Accoucher.
  • Knowledge of nursing care processes, legal frameworks, and relevant statutes.
  • Strong leadership, organizational, and decision-making skills.
  • Basic computer skills.

How to Apply

Applicants are encouraged to utilise Courier Services/ S’thesha Waya Waya or e-mail to [email protected] (Only shortlisted candidates will be requested to submit proof of qualifications).

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Requirements

Grade 12 / Matric or Equivalent.

Diploma / Degree in General Nursing Science.

Diploma / Degree in Midwifery Nursing Science.

1 year post basic qualification in Advanced Midwifery Nursing Science.

Diploma / Degree in Health Service Management.

Certificate in Computer Course.

Current registration with SANC as General Nurse, Midwife / Accoucher, Advanced Nursing Science.

A minimum of 7 years appropriate / recognizable clinical experience in a hospital environment after registration as General Nurse.

At least 5 years of the above should be clinical experience in Obstetrics unit after obtaining the 1 year post basic qualification in Advanced Midwifery Nursing Science.

SANC receipt 2026.

Knowledge, Skills, Training And Competencies Required: Knowledge of nursing care processes and procedures, nursing statutes, and other relevant legal frameworks such as: Nursing Act, Health Act, Occupational Health and Safety Act, Patient’s Rights Charter, Batho Pele principles, Public Service Regulations, Labour Relations Act, Disciplinary Code and Procedure, Grievance Procedure etc.

Leadership, organizational, decision making and problem solving abilities.

Financial and budgetary knowledge pertaining to the resources under management.

Interpersonal skills including public relations, negotiating, conflict handling and counselling skills.

Planning and organizing, report writing skills.

Computer skills in basic programme.

Leadership, organizational, decision making and problem-solving abilities.

Job Duties

Diagnose and manage obstetric emergencies in the absence of a doctor (i.

e.

) Eclampsia APH etc.

Identify high risk clients during ante-partum and post- partum periods, manage them or refer them accordingly to hospital policy.

Develop vision and mission and objectives for obstetric unit.

Develop, implement and review obstetric policies / SOP.

Conduct Perinatal Mortality reviews or meetings.

Know SANC rules and regulations pertaining to obstetrics.

Develop and implement in-service education and quality improvement programs for the obstetrics department.

Act as an advocate for clients utilizing Batho Pele principles.

Form part of the multi-disciplinary team.

Participate and lead in all obstetrics programs, i.

e.

PPIP, PMTCT, BBI, MBFI, and RHC – reproductive health.

Identify training needs for the staff.

Practice participative management by assisting with relief duties of the supervisor.

Maintain and monitor stock and supplies.

Attend meetings held in the institution / outside.

Provide leadership and ensure the provision of optimal, holistic specialized O&G nursing units within set standards and professional / legal framework.

Plan, organise, coordinate, monitor nursing activities and disaster management in the domain to ensure quality patient care.

Monitor and promote Infection Prevention and Control Practices, patient safety and quality improvement initiatives.

Ensure effective management and utilization of human, financial, and material resources.

Monitor financial resources with emphases on cost containment and keeping of all records within financial policies regarding procurement and the policy regarding revenue generation.

Supervise and support nursing personnel, ensure adherence to protocols, policies and standard of care.

Ensure that the unit complies with OHSC and IHRM Standards.

Monitor implementation of clinical governance programmes and quality assurance standards.

Evaluate staff on work performance, and implement employer assistance plan.

Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure efficient, cost-effective and equitable service delivery.

Coordinate and facilitate orientation, in-service training mentoring and continuous professional development of staff.

Compile and submit reports, statistics and other information required.

Participate in research activities and promote evidence based nursing practice.

Maintain professional growth, ethical standards and self-development.

Champion and monitor the implementation of CPD program as per SANC CPD Framework.

Salary

R720 819 per annum. Other Benefits: 12% Rural Allowance, Medical Aid (optional) and Housing Allowance (employee must meet prescribed requirements)

How to Apply

Applicants are encouraged to utilise Courier Services/ S’thesha Waya Waya or e-mail to [email protected] (Only shortlisted candidates 214 will be requested to submit proof of qualifications) Applications could be posted / hand delivered to: The Human Resource Manager, Port Shepstone Hospital, Private Bag X5706, Port Shepstone, 4240 For Enquiries: Mrs. M.C Maqutu Tel No: (039) 688 6117 / 6308