ASSISTANT MANAGER NURSING – THEATRE (X1 POST)

This position offers an experienced and suitably qualified professional nurse the opportunity to take on a senior operational leadership role within the theatre complex at Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Memorial Hospital. As Assistant Manager Nursing for the Theatre unit, the successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring the smooth, efficient and safe functioning of the operating theatre environment. The role sits within the broader nursing management structure of the hospital and requires a leader who can coordinate specialised perioperative care, manage staff and resources, and uphold the highest standards of clinical governance and patient safety. The post is a demanding management position that combines hands-on nursing expertise with strategic oversight, policy development and quality assurance responsibilities.

Candidates must hold a Matric or Grade 12 certificate, a basic R425 nursing qualification with midwifery that is accredited by the South African Nursing Council, and current registration with the SANC as a Professional Nurse. A one-year post-basic qualification in Operating Theatre Nursing, also accredited by the SANC, is compulsory. Applicants need at least ten years of recognisable experience in general nursing after registration, of which at least six years must be relevant operating theatre experience gained after obtaining the post-basic theatre qualification. In addition, at least three of those years must have been at a management level. The role demands in-depth knowledge of nursing care processes, nursing statutes, the National Health Act, Occupational Health and Safety Act, Patients’ Rights Charter, Batho Pele Principles, Public Service Regulations, disciplinary codes and grievance procedures. A sound understanding of perioperative nursing care, theatre policies, infection prevention and control, clinical governance, quality assurance and patient safety standards is essential, along with leadership, organisational, decision-making and problem-solving skills.

The main duties are broad and include ensuring effective communication and smooth running of the unit, managing the overall functioning and support systems, developing policies, protocols and standard operating procedures, and coordinating optimal, holistic specialised nursing care within professional and legal frameworks. The Assistant Manager will monitor the care of surgical instruments, supervise and control all material resources and budgets, and manage equipment strictly. The role also involves optimising the use of nursing personnel, managing the performance management and development system for subordinates, mentoring operational managers and shift leaders, and working as part of a multidisciplinary team. The incumbent will participate in quality assurance, clinical audits, risk management and quality improvement initiatives, as well as supply chain management and financial processes in line with the Public Finance Management Act. Additional responsibilities include maintaining sound stakeholder relations, managing complaints, ensuring compliance with the Office of Health Standards Compliance and the Ideal Hospital Realisation Framework, and ensuring effective data management.

This is an OSD-graded post with associated benefits such as a 13th cheque, optional medical aid and a housing allowance subject to prescribed requirements. The department encourages persons with disabilities to apply. Shortlisted candidates will be required to undergo pre-entry assessments, including a practical exercise and an integrity test, and the appointment is subject to security clearance, qualification verification and other background checks. The department reserves the right not to fill the post.