Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Full-time, Fixed-Term (5 years, renewable based on performance)
The School of Clinical Medicine in the Faculty of Health Sciences invites applications for the position of Academic Head of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. This strategic leadership role is open to applicants from within the existing joint staff cohort and beyond.
Brief Description
We seek a distinguished academic leader and expert in obstetrics and gynaecology or one of its subspecialties who demonstrates excellence across clinical service, teaching, research, and academic administration. The successful candidate will provide visionary leadership, drive innovation, and foster a culture of excellence aligned with the strategic goals of the University of the Witwatersrand, the School of Clinical Medicine, and the Faculty of Health Sciences.
Key Responsibilities
Provide strategic and academic leadership to position the department as a centre of excellence.
Develop, implement, and monitor academic programmes aligned with the university s teaching and learning strategy.
Oversee curriculum development, ensure high-quality teaching, and maintain rigorous academic standards.
Promote and grow research activity, foster partnerships, and support postgraduate supervision and research training.
Foster a collaborative and inclusive departmental culture through transparent decision-making and active consultation with staff.
Manage human, financial, and infrastructural resources efficiently to achieve departmental and school goals.
Represent the department within the School Executive Committee and participate actively in broader faculty governance.
Promote stakeholder engagement, social responsibility, and academic collaboration with internal and external partners.
Provide support and oversight to academic divisions within the department.
Encourage interdisciplinary collaboration across clinical and teaching platforms.
Uphold service delivery standards and quality assurance across all department activities.
Minimum Requirements
Registration as a Specialist in Obstetrics and Gynaecology.
At least 10 years experience in obstetrics and gynaecology, with demonstrated academic and clinical leadership.
Proven research excellence, including a PhD or substantial publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
Significant experience in university administration at a senior level.
Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire teams, manage change, and build academic capacity.
Strong interpersonal, communication, and managerial skills.
Eligibility for appointment at the rank of Associate Professor, Adjunct Professor, or Full Professor per Wits academic criteria.
Additional Information
This is a University appointment under standard Wits terms and conditions, with remuneration commensurate with a Clinical Head of Department position.
The incumbent will be permitted to conduct clinical work within their area of expertise for no more than 20% of their time.
Should there not be a candidate able to undertake the post on a permanent basis under University terms of employment, a joint-staff member may be appointed subject to agreement with the Gauteng Department of Health or delegated authority.
The awarding of the title Professor/Associate Professor/Adjunct Professor will depend on the successful candidate's qualifications, research and other academic criteria as determined by the faculty guidelines and approval at Staffing & Promotions when applied for. Click here for the Promotion Criteria.pdf
Closing Date: 31 July 2025
For enquiries, please contact: Prof Mboyo Di Tamba Vangu
Email: Mboyo-Di-Tamba.Vangu@wits.ac.za
Tel: 011 717 2038
Detailed DescriptionJob RequirementsAdditional DetailsHow To ApplyInterested applicants are invited to submit the following documents via the Wits e-Recruitment platform: https://irec.wits.ac.za A covering letter clearly indicating the position being applied for A detailed CV including the names and contact details (addresses, telephone numbers, and email addresses) of three referees Certified copies of qualifications Proof of registration as a specialist A motivational letter
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