CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER REF NO: G46/2026 Cluster: Hospital Management Services

This position is for a Chief Executive Officer at Ladysmith Regional Hospital, operating within the Hospital Management Services cluster of the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health. The role is a senior executive leadership post, graded at an OSD level, and is responsible for the overall direction, coordination, and management of both clinical and administrative support services at the hospital. The CEO will work closely with the executive management team to ensure the facility operates effectively and efficiently within the legal and regulatory framework, while also representing the hospital authoritatively at provincial and public forums. The broader purpose is to provide strategic leadership that improves operational efficiency and ultimately enhances health outcomes for the community served by the hospital.

Candidates must hold an undergraduate qualification at NQF level 7 in a clinical-related field, along with valid registration with the relevant professional body. In addition, a postgraduate degree or diploma in management is required. Applicants need at least five years of experience at a senior managerial level, and possession of an unendorsed valid Code B (Code 08) driver’s licence is essential. Management experience specifically at a Regional or Tertiary Hospital would be a distinct advantage. The role demands a thorough knowledge of key legislation including the National Health Act, the Public Finance Management Act, and the Public Service Act, as well as related regulations and policies. Core competencies expected include strategic capability and leadership, programme and project management, financial management, and people management and empowerment. Progress competencies such as service delivery innovation, knowledge management, problem solving and analysis, communication, and client orientation are also required.

The duties of the CEO are wide-ranging and encompass strategic planning, financial management, facilities management, human resource management, procurement, and clinical and corporate governance. In terms of strategic planning, the incumbent must prepare the hospital’s strategic plan in alignment with national, provincial, regional, and district plans, as well as the department’s goals and objectives. Financial management responsibilities include ensuring sound policies and systems for prudent resource management, asset accountability, risk identification and mitigation, and maximising revenue collection. The CEO must also ensure optimal management of facilities and equipment through proper infrastructure planning and timely maintenance. Human resource duties involve implementing HR policies, promoting a safe working environment in line with the Occupational Health and Safety Act, and ensuring continuous staff development and performance monitoring. Procurement systems must be fair, transparent, competitive, and cost-effective, with sound contract management. Finally, the CEO oversees clinical governance to maintain high standards of patient care, establishes community networks, reports to the Hospital Board and oversight committees, and manages institutional risks to achieve optimal health outcomes.

This is a demanding executive role that requires a blend of clinical insight and managerial expertise. The post is subject to security clearance and other verification checks, including criminal records, credit records, citizenship, qualification verification by SAQA, and previous employment verification. Foreign qualifications must be accompanied by a SAQA evaluation report. Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Only shortlisted candidates will need to submit certified documents before the interview. This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned health executive to lead a regional hospital and make a meaningful impact on public healthcare delivery.