Deputy Director: Project Management – Digital Health Information Systems

The National Department of Health is seeking highly skilled and experienced professionals for the position of Deputy Director: Project Management within the Chief Directorate: Digital Health Information Systems. This is a re-advertisement, and all previous applicants are encouraged to reapply. There are three available posts based in Pretoria, offering an exciting opportunity to lead strategic projects in South Africa’s digital health landscape.

Salary and Remuneration

Salary: R896,436 per annum (all-inclusive remuneration package)
Structure: The basic salary constitutes 70% or 75% of the total package and will be structured according to Middle Management Service (MMS) guidelines

This competitive package is designed to attract top talent capable of managing complex health sector projects with measurable impact.

Key Requirements

Candidates must meet the following qualifications and experience requirements:

Educational Qualifications:
- Grade 12 certificate
- NQF 7 qualification in Health Sciences, Social Sciences, Economics, or ICT
- A postgraduate qualification in Agile Management or Project Management is highly advantageous.
- Postgraduate qualification in Public Health and registration with the Project Management Institute (PMI) or project management certifications such as CAPM, PMP, or Prince2 Practitioner will be an added advantage.
Experience:
- Experience managing projects in the health sector is preferred.
- Familiarity with digital health systems, including digital identity management and interoperability
Knowledge:
- Digital health strategy, implementation, and project management methodologies
- ICT governance standards, policies, and procedures
- Public Finance Management Act, Public Service Act, and Public Service Regulations
- ICT systems development and implementation processes
Skills:
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Strategic thinking, analytical reasoning, and team management
- Risk, issue, and financial management
- Contract and quality management
- Project integration management, change management, conflict resolution, and facilitation
- Proficiency in MS Office and other project management tools
Additional Requirements:
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Comfortable working in structured and unstructured environments with pioneering initiatives
- Valid driver’s license

Key Duties and Responsibilities

The Deputy Director: Project Management will play a pivotal role in ensuring that health sector digital projects are planned, executed, and delivered successfully. Key duties include:

Project Planning and Scope Development

Define the purpose and objectives of each project.
Ensure objectives are SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
Identify all stakeholders involved or affected by the project.
Document functional and non-functional requirements
Develop comprehensive project plans outlining timelines, budgets, and resources.

Resource Management

Identify and allocate human, financial, and material resources for each task.
Estimate the time required to complete each task effectively.
Use tools such as Gantt charts, Scrum, Kanban, or project management software to track progress.
Monitor and evaluate cross-functional project teams.
Align team goals with organizational objectives to ensure strategic relevance.

Project Execution and Monitoring

Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the required quality standard.
Schedule regular team meetings to discuss progress, challenges, and next steps.
Implement performance metrics to track project progress and individual contributions.
Create and maintain comprehensive project documentation, including project charters, scope statements, and requirement documents.

Risk Management and Governance

Perform risk management to minimize potential project risks.
Identify and document potential risks, including likelihood and impact.
Develop risk mitigation strategies and contingency plans.
Ensure adherence to ICT governance standards, project policies, and legislative requirements.

Stakeholder Engagement and Reporting

Engage with key stakeholders to ensure project alignment and support.
Prepare regular reports on project status, risks, and outcomes.
Communicate effectively with both internal teams and external partners to resolve challenges and maintain project momentum.

Key Factors for Success

KEY FACTOR: Strategic Project Planning

Strong ability to develop and manage comprehensive project plans that align with organizational and health sector objectives.

KEY FACTOR: Digital Health Expertise

Understanding digital health infrastructure, interoperability, identity management, and ICT governance is crucial for impactful project delivery.

KEY FACTOR: Risk and Issue Management

The ability to identify potential risks early, mitigate challenges, and implement contingency plans ensures the smooth execution of projects.

KEY FACTOR: Leadership and Team Management

Effective team leadership, conflict resolution, and cross-functional collaboration are critical for successful project outcomes.

KEY FACTOR: Communication and Stakeholder Engagement

Clear and consistent communication, combined with stakeholder engagement, ensures project relevance and organizational support.

Application and Enquiries

Enquiries:

Mr S. Jali
Tel: 012 395 8068

This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to South Africa’s digital health transformation. Candidates with strong project management skills, experience in the health sector, and the ability to work in innovative and challenging environments are encouraged to apply.

The role not only offers a competitive remuneration package but also the chance to influence the implementation of digital health solutions that will have a lasting impact on the national health system.