HEAD CLINICAL UNIT (X1 POST)

This position offers an exceptional opportunity for an experienced neurosurgeon to lead the Paediatric Neurosurgery Clinical Unit at Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital, a major tertiary and quaternary academic centre in KwaZulu-Natal. The successful candidate will operate under the delegated authority of the Head Clinical Department of Neurosurgery and will be responsible for the overall clinical, administrative and academic functioning of the unit. This is a senior leadership role within a busy public sector hospital, closely aligned with the University of KwaZulu-Natal, and requires a medical professional who can balance high-level clinical care with teaching, research and service development.

Applicants must hold an MBChB degree or equivalent qualification and be registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa as a Medical Specialist in Neurosurgery, with current registration maintained. A minimum of five years’ post-registration experience as a specialist is required, along with an MMed or equivalent higher degree. The role specifically demands experience in paediatric neurosurgery, as well as a background in a tertiary or quaternary academic setting. Candidates should also demonstrate experience in clinical governance and service development, reflecting the unit’s need for strong managerial oversight. Expertise in managing paediatric neurosurgical conditions is essential, together with a sound knowledge of national and international health demographics, public service legislation, medical ethics, epidemiology and statistics. Strong clinical decision-making, communication and interpersonal skills are critical, as is the ability to work in multidisciplinary teams, teach and supervise trainees, and mentor junior and allied staff. A solid understanding of research principles and the capacity to drive academic output are also required, along with leadership, administrative and conflict resolution abilities.

The core duties are wide-ranging. The head of the unit must ensure high standards of clinical care, ethics and governance, oversee unit administration and staff performance, and manage service delivery efficiently. This includes providing specialist clinical services such as outpatient care, consultations and neurosurgical emergencies, as well as participating in after-hours consultant cover. The role involves leading the training of undergraduate and postgraduate students and allied health staff, developing and implementing clinical protocols for paediatric neurosurgery and related conditions, and supporting clinical audit and quality assurance programmes. Outreach is another key responsibility, with the expectation that the incumbent will strengthen regional paediatric neurosurgery services at secondary and tertiary hospitals. The efficient and cost-effective use of resources is essential, and the post holder will also promote and support research and academic development in line with UKZN policies.

This is a demanding but rewarding post within an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. People with disabilities and African males are particularly encouraged to apply, while all race groups remain eligible. Shortlisted candidates will be required to undergo pre-employment screening and verification, including a CIPC check, and will also complete two pre-entry assessments: one practical exercise testing technical and generic suitability, and one integrity assessment. Foreign qualifications must be evaluated by SAQA before the interview. The hospital has noted that no subsistence and travel claims will be paid, and applications are not acknowledged due to volume; candidates not contacted within 60 days of the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful. This is an OSD-graded post with an all-inclusive remuneration package, excluding commuted overtime, and offers a unique chance to shape paediatric neurosurgery services at a leading academic hospital.