JOBS AT DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
Lead South Africa’s Healthcare Transformation – Senior Roles Now Open
The National Department of Health is calling on experienced healthcare leaders to step forward and help shape the future of South Africa’s public health system.
Two high-level leadership opportunities are now open in Pretoria, offering competitive executive remuneration and the chance to drive national healthcare reforms. These roles form part of the government’s strategy to strengthen leadership, improve healthcare delivery, and advance transformation across the health sector.
If you are an experienced professional with a passion for improving public healthcare, this could be your opportunity to make a national impact.
Director-General: Health
A National Leadership Opportunity
The Director-General: Health position is the most senior administrative role within the national health department and offers the opportunity to lead large-scale transformation across the healthcare system.
💰 Salary Package: Approximately R2.35 million per year (all-inclusive).
What You’ll Do
As Director-General, you will lead the strategic direction of the department and oversee the implementation of key national health priorities.
Key focus areas include:
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Driving healthcare transformation through the Presidential Social Compact.
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Aligning health policies with the National Development Plan.
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Leading the rollout of the National Health Insurance system.
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Strengthening governance and management across the national health system.
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Advancing programmes addressing diseases such as HIV/AIDS and Tuberculosis.
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Promoting research, innovation, and modern health technologies.
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Advising the Minister of Health on strategy and policy.
What You Need
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Grade 12 and an NQF Level 8 qualification in Health Sciences or related field, recognised by the South African Qualifications Authority.
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10 years of senior management experience, including 5 years at Senior Management Service level.
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Strong leadership and strategic management skills.
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A valid driver’s licence.
Deputy Director-General: Hospital Tertiary Services & Human Resource Development
The department is also recruiting a Deputy Director-General who will help strengthen South Africa’s tertiary healthcare services and develop the health workforce of the future.
💰 Salary Package: Approximately R1.81 million per year.
Your Mission
This role focuses on improving hospital governance, expanding workforce development, and strengthening specialized healthcare services.
Key responsibilities include:
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Supporting hospitals operating under the National Health Insurance framework.
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Developing policies for training and developing healthcare professionals.
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Implementing the national Human Resources for Health strategy.
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Strengthening governance in Emergency Medical Services.
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Overseeing forensic chemistry and pathology services that support the justice system.
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Supporting modernization and planning of healthcare infrastructure.
Requirements
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Grade 12 and an NQF Level 8 qualification in Health, Social Sciences, or Public Health.
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8 years of senior management experience.
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Strong knowledge of hospital governance and tertiary healthcare systems.
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Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
How to Apply
Applications must include:
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The official Z83 application form
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A detailed Curriculum Vitae
Applications may be submitted electronically or delivered to the department’s offices in Pretoria.
📅 Closing Date: 30 March 2026
Shortlisted candidates may undergo technical assessments, integrity checks, and competency-based evaluations as part of the selection process.
Be Part of Transforming South Africa’s Healthcare System
The National Department of Health is looking for visionary leaders ready to drive reform, strengthen governance, and improve healthcare outcomes nationwide.
If you have the experience, leadership ability, and commitment to public service, this is your opportunity to play a key role in building a stronger and more equitable healthcare system for South Africa.
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