DEPUTY DIRECTOR: FACILITIES MANAGEMENT (X1 POST)

This position offers an opportunity for an experienced facilities management professional to take on a senior leadership role at Newcastle Regional Hospital, operating within the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health. As the Deputy Director of Facilities Management, the successful candidate will be responsible for the overall coordination, management, and quality assurance of all functional components that support the hospital’s daily operations. These include cleaning, portering, linen management, mortuary services, transport, messengers, registry, food services, accommodation, safety and security, information technology, and patient administration. The role is central to ensuring that the hospital environment is safe, functional, and conducive to the delivery of quality patient care.

Applicants must hold a Matric or Senior Certificate, together with a Degree or National Diploma in Public Management, Public Administration, or Health Service Management. A minimum of three years of managerial experience at the Assistant Director level, specifically within facilities management, is required. A valid driver’s licence and computer literacy are essential. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a thorough understanding of relevant legislation, including the Public Service Act, Labour Relations Act, Public Service Regulations, National Health Act, Skills Development Act, and Employment Equity Act. Strong people management, financial management, planning, organising, and time management skills are critical, as are leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities. The role demands someone who is self-disciplined, able to work under pressure with minimal supervision, and possesses qualities such as independence, patience, commitment, trustworthiness, honesty, accountability, cultural awareness, and a commitment to continuous learning and change.

The duties are wide-ranging and include ensuring the effective, efficient, and economical use of allocated resources, as well as the development of staff. The Deputy Director will manage contracts for all outsourced services provided by private companies, ensuring compliance with service level agreements. Risk management, safety programmes, and adherence to Ideal Hospital Norms and Standards are key responsibilities. The post holder must ensure that staff wear proper personal protective equipment and uniforms in line with the KZN Health uniform code, and will be expected to develop policies and strategies aimed at improving service delivery. Regular walkabouts of the institution are required, along with presenting reports at management meetings on the state of the hospital. The role also involves ensuring the reliability of utilities and critical systems, including generators, medical gases, HVAC, water, sewer, and boilers, with zero downtime for life support systems. Service delivery must be achieved within budget and in line with the Public Finance Management Act and Treasury Regulations. Additional duties include compiling leave plans, updating leave registers, implementing performance management and development systems, supporting clinical services, enforcing the disciplinary code, and liaising with internal and external stakeholders.

This is an equal opportunity, affirmative action position aimed at promoting representivity within the department. Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Appointment is subject to security clearance, credit record checks, qualification verification, citizenship, and employment history verification. Shortlisted candidates will be required to undergo pre-entry assessments, including a practical exercise and an integrity assessment. It is important to note that no S&T claims will be paid for candidates invited to interviews.