Unit Manager (ICU, Paediatric Ward & NICU)X1
Job Details
Job Title: Unit Manager (I) – ICU, Paediatric Ward & NICU
Employer: Netcare
Location: Pelonomi Private Hospital (CHM trading as Pelonomi Private Hospital)
Work Type: Full-time
Work Setting: Onsite
Application Closing Date: 18 February 2026
Job Requisition ID: JR104626
Job Overview
The Unit Manager (I) is responsible for the overall management, coordination, and delivery of high-quality nursing care within the ICU, Paediatric Ward, and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The role ensures that nursing care is safe, ethical, cost-effective, and evidence-based, in line with Netcare’s Clinical Governance framework.
The Unit Manager provides clinical leadership, oversees people, financial, quality, and risk management, and ensures effective service delivery within a multidisciplinary healthcare environment. The incumbent plays a key role in capacity building, mentoring, staff development, and transformation, while upholding Netcare’s values of Care, Truth, Participation, Compassion, and Dignity.
Job Description
1. Patient Care and Clinical Governance
Ensure the provision of safe, high-quality, cost-effective patient care across ICU, Paediatrics, and NICU.
Monitor and evaluate patient care outcomes, nursing quality indicators, and clinical performance.
Promote evidence-based practice and adherence to clinical governance standards.
Evaluate the patient journey using patient experience feedback and stakeholder input.
Ensure strict compliance with infection prevention and control practices.
Communicate effectively with patients and families regarding care.
Implement and support group-wide quality improvement initiatives.
2. Governance, Quality, and Risk Management
Identify quality improvement opportunities and implement measurable quality initiatives.
Investigate adverse events and incidents; ensure accurate reporting on the Incident Management System (IMS).
Ensure compliance with hospital policies, protocols, legislation, and professional standards.
Monitor safety standards in accordance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
Ensure equipment is safe, functional, and properly maintained.
Manage and control the unit’s asset register.
3. Financial Management
Manage patient acuity and staff skill mix to deliver cost-effective quality care.
Control departmental expenditure and manage all unit-related costs.
Ensure accurate billing, effective stock management, and purchasing control.
Oversee timeous and accurate patient file compilation.
4. People Management and Leadership
Create a positive work environment that values staff contribution and accountability.
Allocate responsibilities, authority, and decision-making appropriately.
Develop and retain a competent and talented nursing workforce.
Facilitate staff orientation, coaching, mentoring, and ongoing professional development.
Monitor staff attendance, absenteeism, and enforce discipline where required.
Promote professional conduct, appearance, and adherence to dress code.
Manage change, resolve conflict, and promote staff wellbeing.
Support nursing education and training in collaboration with the Netcare Education Division.
5. Teamwork and Stakeholder Engagement
Actively participate as a member of the hospital management and multidisciplinary teams.
Build and maintain strong working relationships with doctors, nursing staff, suppliers, and service providers.
Foster positive interdepartmental collaboration to achieve hospital and business objectives.
Strengthen patient loyalty and customer intimacy through effective engagement.
Maintain effective relationships with public liability and external stakeholders.
6. Transformation and Strategic Alignment
Ensure achievement of transformation targets as set by the Transformation Committee.
Promote diversity, inclusion, and equitable practices within the unit.
Align unit objectives with Netcare’s strategic goals and values.
7. Professional Development
Maintain active registration with the South African Nursing Council (SANC).
Participate in continuous professional development.
Keep abreast of current research, best practices, and Netcare policies and procedures.
Skills and Requirements
Education (Essential)
Diploma in General Nursing or B Cur Degree (or equivalent NQF Level 7 qualification)
Registration with the South African Nursing Council (SANC) as a Registered Nurse
Relevant nursing management qualification
Compliance with SANC regulations and healthcare legislation
Experience (Essential)
Minimum 2 years’ experience in a private hospital setting
Proven experience in clinical leadership
Intermediate computer literacy
Knowledge
Strong financial management knowledge
Ability to interpret and apply financial and operational data