Academic Head of Department

In brief

Overview The University of the Witwatersrand, specifically its School of Clinical Medicine within the Faculty of Health Sciences, is inviting applications for the position of Academic Head of the Department of Paediatrics and Child Health. This is a strategic leadership role open to suitably qualified candidates from both within the University and externally. The successful candidate is expected to be an accomplished academic and clinical leader with expertise in Paediatrics and Child Health or an appropriate subspecialty. They must also have a demonstrated record of excellence across clinical service, teaching, research, and academic leadership. The Academic Head will be responsible for providing strategic direction to the Department, promoting academic and clinical excellence, driving innovation, and fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment, all in alignment with the strategic priorities of the University, the School of Clinical Medicine, and the Faculty of Health Sciences. What you will do * Provide strategic and academic leadership to position the Department as a centre of excellence in Paediatrics and Child Health. * Develop, implement, and monitor academic programmes aligned with the University's teaching and learning strategy. * Provide oversight of curriculum development, teaching quality, and academic standards. * Promote research excellence, develop strategic partnerships, and strengthen postgraduate supervision and research training. * Provide leadership and oversight to the academic divisions within the Department. * Foster interdisciplinary collaboration across clinical, teaching, and research platforms. * Build a collaborative, inclusive, and accountable departmental culture through effective consultation and transparent decision-making. * Lead, develop, and support academic and professional staff, including capacity building and succession planning. * Manage departmental human, financial, and infrastructural resources effectively. * Represent the Department on the School Executive Committee and participate actively in Faculty and University governance structures. * Strengthen engagement with internal and external stakeholders and promote academic collaboration and social responsibility. * Ensure appropriate service delivery, quality assurance, and compliance across departmental activities. Requirements (from the original advert) * Registration as a Specialist in Paediatrics and Child Health with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). * At least 10 years' experience in Paediatrics and Child Health, with demonstrated clinical and academic leadership. * A strong record of research and scholarly achievement, including substantial publications in peer-reviewed journals. * Demonstrated experience within university structures relevant to academic and clinical leadership. * Demonstrated ability to lead and develop teams, manage change, and build academic capacity. * Strong interpersonal, communication, leadership, and managerial skills. * Eligibility for appointment at the rank of Associate Professor, Adjunct Professor, or Professor, in accordance with the University's applicable academic appointment and promotion criteria and subject to the approval of the Staffing and Promotions Committee. Who should apply The ideal candidate is an accomplished academic and clinical leader with expertise in Paediatrics and Child Health or an appropriate subspecialty, possessing a demonstrated record of excellence in clinical service, teaching, research, and academic leadership. They should be capable of providing strategic direction, promoting academic and clinical excellence, driving innovation, and fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment. Applicants should also have demonstrated experience within university structures, a strong research record, and the ability to lead and develop teams. While not a minimum requirement, a PhD or equivalent doctoral qualification will be an added advantage. Preference will be given to candidates who can occupy the University position on a full-time basis. Deadline 15th October, 2026 Reference Original posting: https://www.myjobmag.co.za/job/academic-head-of-department-university-of-the-witwatersrand-2 Source: myjobmag

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• At least 10 years of experience.

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