Position: Programme Head – National Cytology Coordinator
Location: Johannesburg
Sector: Pathology & Diagnostic Services

Are you ready to shape the future of cervical cancer screening and cytology services across South Africa? Join a mission-driven organisation at the forefront of healthcare innovation and policy transformation. We’re seeking a visionary leader to spearhead the National Cytology Programme—driving excellence, equity, and innovation in line with the National Department of Health’s strategic objectives.

What You’ll Do: 

As the Programme Head, you’ll be the national champion for cytology excellence. Your role will include:

Strategic Oversight: Coordinate and implement cutting-edge cytology techniques and technologies aligned with national health priorities.
Policy Leadership: Facilitate and influence policy development and review processes to advance cervical cancer screening.
Programme Execution: Lead the national priority programme for cytology, ensuring alignment with client needs and cervical cancer screening policy.
Stakeholder Engagement: Build and nurture strong relationships with internal and external role players across the healthcare ecosystem.
Performance Monitoring: Analyse, evaluate, and report on screening trends, challenges, and programme impact.
Innovation & Technology: Explore global advancements in cytology to future-proof South Africa’s diagnostic capabilities.

Quality Assurance: Ensure all cytology labs meet SANS accreditation standards and uphold national policy requirements.
Financial Strategy: Advise on sustainable costing models for cytology testing and service delivery.

What We’re Looking For:

A strategic thinker with deep expertise in cytology and public health
Proven experience in programme coordination, policy development, and stakeholder management
Passion for client-centric service delivery and continuous improvement
Strong understanding of national health systems, accreditation standards, and emerging diagnostic technologies

Non-negotiables:

Honours - Biomedical Sciences 

MSc - advantage 

No less than 10 years' post qualification work experience, no less than 7 years' managerial experience 

HPCSA - Cytotechnologist 

Knowledge:

Laboratory principles and practice

ERP system

Skills: 

Decision making

Interpersonal 

Presentation 

Interpretation

Conflict management 

Troubleshoot

Communication 

Troubleshooting