OPERATIONAL MANAGER (PNB3): PRIMARY HEALTH CARE (X10 POSTS)

This is an exciting and demanding leadership opportunity for an experienced professional nurse to step into the role of Operational Manager for Primary Health Care, with ten positions available across the Thabo Mofutsanyana district. The successful candidates will be placed in specific towns within the district, including Nketoana, Mantsopa, Dihlabeng, Maluti A Phofung, and Setsoto, and will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day functioning of primary health care facilities in these areas. As an OSD-graded nursing management post, this role is ideal for a senior nurse who is ready to take on substantial managerial and clinical governance responsibilities within the public health sector.

Applicants must hold a Matric certificate and a Basic R425 qualification, such as a diploma or degree in nursing, or a four-year Bachelor Degree in Nursing that allows registration with the South African Nursing Council as a Professional Nurse in General Nursing. In addition, candidates need a post-basic qualification in Clinical Nursing Science, Health Assessment, Treatment and Care, specifically in Primary Health Care, with a duration of at least one year and accredited by the SANC. Registration as a Registered Nurse in General Nursing and Midwifery is essential, along with a minimum of nine years of appropriate and recognisable nursing experience after registration. At least five of those years must be in nursing management. A valid, unendorsed driver’s licence is required, as is current registration with the SANC for the 2026/2027 period. Shortlisted candidates should also expect to be assessed for computer-user competency.

The role involves planning, organising, and monitoring the objectives of the primary health care facility in consultation with district management and subordinates. The Operational Manager will provide quality nursing care by implementing standards, policies, and procedures, while supervising and monitoring their application. This includes creating a therapeutic environment for staff, patients, and the public, and managing human, material, and financial resources effectively. The position also requires coordinating training and research, maintaining professional growth and ethical standards, and implementing and monitoring the Performance Management and Development System. Infection control and prevention protocols, as well as Occupational Health and Safety standards, must be upheld. The manager will oversee accurate patient records, operate the District Health Information Management System, and produce high-level data. Participation in quality improvement programmes, conducting Ideal Health Facility Realization assessments, and having insight into Office of Health Standards Compliance processes are also key duties. The post holder will conduct clinical audits, support staff and student development, and manage discipline, grievance, and labour relations issues in line with policies. Risk management, liaison with sub-district and district stakeholders, and monitoring primary health care performance against public health indicators are further responsibilities, along with analysing health policy to develop customised implementation strategies.

Candidates should possess strong report writing, time management, communication, and interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to mentor, coach, and build teams. A thorough understanding of nursing legislation, ethical practices, and frameworks such as the Nursing Acts, Mental Health Act, Occupational Health and Safety Act, Batho Pele Principles, Patients’ Rights Charter, Labour Relations Act, and grievance procedures is essential. The department will only enter into correspondence with candidates who meet the requirements, and shortlisted applicants will need to submit certified documents at a later stage. This is a rewarding role for a dedicated nursing professional committed to improving primary health care delivery in the Free State.