Director (Mental Health) Job Opportunity at the Gauteng Department of Health

Are you a highly skilled healthcare professional with a passion for mental health care? The Department of Health is currently seeking a Director (Mental Health) to lead the strategic direction and management of mental health services across the province. This position offers a competitive remuneration package and an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the public health sector.

Position Overview

• Position Title: Director – Mental Health
• Reference Number: REFS/022990
• Directorate: Management
• Location: Central Office, Johannesburg
• Package: R 1,216,824 per annum (all-inclusive remuneration package)
• Closing Date: 1 August 2025

Key Responsibilities

In this leadership role, the Director will be expected to:

1. Leadership and Strategy:
   • Provide direction and leadership to ensure the planning and delivery of mental health care across the province in consultation with Clinical Directors and Hospital Management.
   • Offer specialist advice and recommendations on mental health care to management.
   • Oversee the development and implementation of policies and procedures to ensure clinical standards and patient care are adhered to.
2. Operational Management:
   • Ensure the efficient and effective delivery of mental health services, including treatment, rehabilitation, and reintegration services.
   • Monitor the implementation of the Mental Health Conditional Grant Framework.
   • Develop and standardise accreditation processes, clinical standards, and protocols.
3. Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement:
   • Foster collaboration between primary care providers and other stakeholders in the mental health care sector, including NGOs and government agencies.
   • Liaise with external stakeholders, ensuring that mental health care services align with national standards and policies.
4. Compliance and Quality Assurance:
   • Oversee compliance with the Mental Health Act 17 of 2002 and other relevant regulations.
   • Lead research initiatives and mental health awareness campaigns to promote safe, high-quality mental health care.
   • Participate in continuous safety and quality improvement activities to ensure services align with service standards.
5. Human Resource and People Management:
   • Manage and mentor mental health professionals, ensuring their continuous development and high service standards.
   • Provide support and leadership in people management and empowerment, fostering a positive and productive work environment.

Requirements

The Department of Health seeks candidates who meet the following qualifications and experience:

• Essential Qualifications:
  • A Grade 12 Certificate.
  • An MBCHB degree.
  • Current registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).
• Experience:
  • A minimum of eight (8) years’ experience in the health sector.
  • At least five (5) years of practical management experience in the mental health/psychiatry discipline.
  • A minimum of three (3) years of management experience in a senior capacity.
• Additional Skills:
  • Knowledge of relevant legislations, particularly the Mental Health Act 17 of 2002.
  • Strong competencies in strategic planning, programme and project management, financial management, change management, and people management.
  • Excellent communication, problem-solving, and customer focus skills.
  • A valid driver’s license is a requirement for this role.

How to Apply

Interested candidates must submit their applications through the Department of Health’s online recruitment portal. Applications via fax, email, or hand delivery will not be accepted. The closing date for applications is 1 August 2025.

• Online Application Portal
• Contact for Assistance:
  • Mr Errol Ogle, Tel: 073 142 0376
  • Email: [email protected]

Please ensure that your application includes:

• A fully completed and signed new Z83 form
• A detailed CV.
• Proof of qualifications and relevant documents, which may be requested upon shortlisting.

Note: Candidates must submit a certificate of completion for the SMS Pre-Entry Programme (Nyukela) offered by the National School of Government when applying for senior management positions. For more information on this requirement, please visit the National School of Government’s website.

Additional Information

Due to the large volume of applications anticipated, candidates will only be contacted if they are shortlisted for an interview. If you do not receive a response within three months, please consider your application unsuccessful.

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The Department of Health is offering an exciting opportunity for an experienced leader to join its team and shape the future of mental health care in South Africa. This role provides a platform for individuals with the right qualifications and experience to make a significant impact on the health and wellbeing of the community. If you meet the criteria and are ready to take on this rewarding challenge, apply before the closing date.