OPERATIONAL MANAGER NURSING (SPECIALTY: PSYCHIATRY) (NEW ACUTE)

This position offers an experienced psychiatric nurse the opportunity to step into a senior operational leadership role within a dedicated acute psychiatric ward at Stikland Hospital, part of the Western Cape Government’s Metro Health Services. As an Operational Manager Nursing specialising in psychiatry, the successful candidate will be responsible for the overall functioning of a new acute unit, ensuring that patient-centred care is delivered to the highest standard. The role sits within a public sector hospital environment, requiring strong managerial capability alongside clinical expertise in mental health nursing. Working closely with the Deputy Manager Nursing office, the incumbent provides day-to-day direction, supervision and support to the nursing team, including professional nurses, enrolled nurses, students, ward clerks and household support staff, while maintaining a therapeutic and safe environment for patients.

To be considered, applicants must hold a recognised basic nursing qualification, such as the R425 diploma or degree in nursing, or an equivalent qualification that permits registration with the South African Nursing Council as a Professional Nurse. In addition, candidates need either a one-year post-basic qualification in Advanced Psychiatric Nursing Science accredited with the SANC, or a four-year Bachelor Degree in Nursing with a postgraduate diploma in Mental Health Nursing. SANC registration as a Professional Nurse is essential. The role requires a minimum of nine years of appropriate, recognisable nursing experience after registration in General Nursing, with at least five of those years in the psychiatry specialty following completion of the relevant post-basic qualification. The job also demands a willingness to work shifts, including after hours, public holidays, day or night duty, and standby, as well as possession of a valid driver’s licence. Computer literacy in MS Word, Excel and PowerPoint is a key competency for managing reports and administrative duties.

The core duties are broad and managerial in scope. The Operational Manager will provide leadership, planning and control to deliver improved patient-centred care, implement quality improvement programmes, manage human, financial, health technology and facility resources, and oversee infection control measures. Development and training of nursing and related staff also form a key part of the role, ensuring that the ward operates effectively and that clinical practice remains current and evidence-based. This is a demanding but fulfilling position for a nurse leader seeking to make a meaningful impact in public sector psychiatric services. Notably, no payment of any kind is required when applying. The post is advertised via the provincial health circular system, and applications are submitted through the official Western Cape Government health jobs portal online.