Chief of Emergency Department

We are seeking an experienced Chief of Emergency Department to lead the operations of the Emergency Department (ED) at Policlinico San Donato branch in Najaf, Iraq. This role requires exceptional leadership and high-level decision-making to ensure the delivery of patient-centered, high-quality care, while aligning the department's activities with the hospital’s long-term strategic and operational goals.

 

The Role of the Chief of Emergency Department

The Chief of Emergency Department will be responsible for both clinical and administrative oversight, ensuring the efficient functioning of the department. You will drive continuous improvements in patient outcomes, staff performance, and operational efficiency. The Chief will ensure full compliance with hospital policies and local Iraqi healthcare regulations, focusing on maintaining and elevating the quality of care provided in the ED. This role involves collaboration across multiple departments and maintaining effective communication with both internal and external stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement the long-term strategic vision for the Emergency Department, ensuring that department goals align with the hospital’s overall mission and address the evolving healthcare needs of the region. Drive innovation in emergency medicine and establish the ED as a leader in patient-centered care and clinical excellence in Iraq.
• Oversee the overall management of the Emergency Department, ensuring optimal staffing levels, addressing performance issues, and fostering a safe and positive work environment. Ensure timely triage, treatment, and safety for all patients, and collaborate with other hospital departments to optimize clinical processes​.
• Lead quality improvement programs focused on patient outcomes, patient safety, and compliance with Iraqi healthcare regulations. Conduct regular audits and reviews of clinical processes, driving continuous improvements and ensuring alignment with both local and global best practices.
• Facilitate collaborative working across hospital departments, ensuring the seamless integration of ED services with other units such as inpatient care, surgery, and critical care.
• Ensure that all staff comply with mandatory training and professional development. Develop individual training plans, mentor staff, and provide opportunities for continuous professional growth. Lead efforts to ensure all staff are prepared to handle the dynamic and high-pressure environment of emergency care.
• Ensure effective communication with patients and their families, especially during critical and high-stress situations.
• Ensure that patients' rights and needs are respected and met, acting as an advocate for their well-being and promoting a patient-centered approach in all aspects of Emergency Department care
• Investigate complaints related to Emergency Department services, addressing issues promptly and professionally, and ensuring that corrective actions are taken when necessary. Lead efforts to continuously improve the patient’s experience by incorporating feedback and implementing improvements.
• Ensure that the Emergency Department complies with health and safety policies, and that staff are trained in the use of emergency equipment. Oversee risk management procedures to ensure the safety of patients, staff, and visitors.
• Lead disaster preparedness planning specific to the unique needs of Najaf as a holy city, coordinating with public health and national emergency services to ensure effective response to mass gathering events and potential emergencies.

 

Qualifications:

• Medical degree and no less than 5 years post-specialization degree in Emergency Medicine or critical care setting.
• Advanced knowledge of emergency care protocols and patient safety standards.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop high-performing teams in fast-paced, high-pressure environments.
• Fluency in both English and Arabic (written and spoken) is mandatory.

 

Preferred Skills:

• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills to effectively manage a diverse team and engage with patients and stakeholders.
• Proven experience with budget management in a healthcare setting.
• Advanced knowledge of Iraqi healthcare regulations.
• In-depth knowledge of patient safety standards and quality improvement initiatives.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively manage resources, including optimizing medical supplies and staffing, particularly in environments with potential resource constraints or supply chain challenges.
• Strong adaptability and leadership capabilities, with excellent organizational skills and advanced problem-solving abilities to navigate complex, high-pressure healthcare environments while driving continuous improvement.

 

Location:

• Najaf, Iraq.