Assistant Director, Public Health

Role Overview

This leadership position sits at the centre of public health delivery, combining regulatory oversight with operational management. Day to day, the role involves directing teams that enforce health legislation, inspecting facilities, guiding disease-prevention programmes, and ensuring local health standards align with national and international expectations. The work matters because it directly influences how safely communities live and how effectively public health resources are planned, funded and applied.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the enforcement of statutory public health laws and other relevant legislation, ensuring individuals and organisations meet required legal standards.
• Develop and maintain service standards and guidelines that shape the quality and consistency of public health provision across the department.
• Oversee the implementation of public health projects and programmes from planning through to evaluation, tracking progress and impact.
• Apply international health regulations and rules within local practice, adapting global requirements to fit departmental operations.
• Conduct research into community health needs and use findings to inform policy, planning and service improvement.
• Regulate the development and management of mortuaries, cemeteries and crematoria in both public and private sectors.
• Prepare resource mobilisation proposals and engage partners, agencies and stakeholders through forums that advance public health initiatives.
• Plan departmental budgets, integrate modern information and communication technology, set strategic work plans and performance targets, and mentor staff for professional growth.

Requirements & Qualifications

• At least three years of service at the grade of Principal Public Health Officer or Principal Assistant Public Health Officer.
• A Post-Graduate Diploma in Food Science and Inspection, Solid Waste Management, Occupational Health and Safety, Epidemiology, Health Promotion and Education, or a recognised equivalent.
• Alternatively, a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Health, Public Health, or a recognised equivalent qualification.
• A Master’s degree in Environmental Health, Public Health, Epidemiology, Food Safety and Quality, Food Science and Technology, Community Health, Occupational Health and Safety, Health Promotion and Education, Solid Waste Management, or Disaster Management from a recognised institution.
• A Senior Management Course certificate of at least four weeks’ duration from a recognised institution.
• A certificate in Computer Application Skills from a recognised institution.
• Evidence of strong professional competence, reflected in consistent work performance and measurable results.