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Chair, Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Entity

Aga Khan University

Location

Karachi, Pakistan

Introduction

Founded in 1983, the Aga Khan University (AKU) was Pakistan’s first private university and quickly established and has maintained itself as one of the leading health sciences centres in the region. Since then, it has expanded into disciplines including education, media and communications, Muslim civilisations and more recently arts and sciences. From 2000 onwards, the University broadened its geographic presence to Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Afghanistan, and the United Kingdom. In recent years, it has been ranked among the leading universities in Asia and Africa, and in some subjects, the world.

AKU was established as an agency of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), which focuses on health, education, culture, rural development, institution-building, and the promotion of economic development. 

It is dedicated to improving living conditions and opportunities for the poor, regardless of their faith, origin, or gender. In alignment with the mandate of the AKDN, the mission of AKU is to improve quality of life in the developing world and beyond, through world-class teaching, research, and health-care delivery. The University proudly empowers women and the disadvantaged, builds support for pluralism, and collaborates with local partners and world-renowned organizations to achieve shared goals (www.akdn.org).

The Aga Khan University Medical College in Karachi provides high quality education to produce responsible healthcare professionals, who are not only are contributing members of society but have gone on to become the next generation of leaders in their fields. Its programmes, curriculum and assessment are tailored to international standards, with the aim of developing excellent clinical competencies in community settings as well as hospitals. The goal is to produce health professional leaders through its unique training programmes, building strong research programmes, supporting best practice in the delivery of health services, and contributing to the broader community through strategic partnerships regionally and globally. The impact of its programmes in the undergraduate as well as postgraduate medical education arenas are writ large in the context of Pakistan, the region, as well as internationally. 

The Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Pakistan
The Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology provides high-quality, compassionate, evidence-based care to women seeking guidance, counselling and treatment related to pregnancy, reproductive and gynaecological health – in addition to expanding the role to overall women’s health needs. It caters to a broad range of inpatient and outpatient services for women with general obstetric and gynaecologic health related concerns in a tertiary care hospital in Karachi, as well as in the four off campus facilities in Karachi and Hyderabad.


Education
The Aga Khan University Hospital has multiple specialities under one roof, which enables the team of obstetricians, gynaecologists and other allied health staff to work closely with physicians from other disciplines where multi-disciplinary decisions and management of complex diseases are required with the goal to ensure the provision of customized and holistic treatment for woman's health care needs. The results ensure safe births and enhanced overall quality of life for women. 

The Department has a strong academic portfolio including undergraduate and postgraduate training programmes. The department also offers residency and fellowship programs in sub-specialty of Uro-Gynaecology, Gynaecological-Oncology and Fetal Maternal Medicine. It is also actively involved in hospital-based as well as community-based research.

Considering its vital importance, the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology has also played a significant role in initiating the Early Childhood Development, Parenting Readiness Education Programme (ECD PREP), which offers a wide range of services on Parenting Education and Responsive Caregiving by integrating education, research and service ppatient education and nursing are vital in obstetrics and gynecology. Nurses educate women on reproductive health, pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care. They assist with prenatal monitoring, labor and delivery support, postpartum recovery, and routine gynecologic exams, ensuring comprehensive care and emotional support throughout the reproductive journey.

The Departmental Chair will build on the considerable strengths and success of the ACGME-international accredited programs and enhance the reputation. Additionally, improving the undergraduate and residency program to encourage more students to enter the field would be a key goal. 

Research
The department is highly collaborative and working closely with Centre of Excellence Women & Child Health and its Chair to help propel advancements in medical knowledge and related patient care. The department is actively involved in clinical research and has conducted a number of studies of which the results are published in National and International journals and supports them to attend different medical symposia, seminars and workshops as part of their Continual Medical Education. Residents are also encouraged to actively participate and make presentations as well.

The department boasts a highly active research faculty and staff who continuously contribute to the advancement of medical knowledge. Since 2007, the department has published 20 chapters in books, 34 articles in international journals, and 37 articles in national journals, with various abstracts presented at multiple forums.

Current areas of research interests include, but are not limited to medical education, general obstetrics and gynecology experience, fetal and maternal medicine, gynecological oncology, uro-gynecology, infertility and minimally invasive gynecological surgeries.

The incoming Chair will be expected to support the research interests and plan to evolve and expand the portfolio, harnessing the potential for extramural grant funding and collaborative opportunities locally and nationally. 

Leadership
While the tripartite academic mission as listed above would be key performances that would be assessed from the Chair, there will be an expectation that the individual would provide strong leadership for both the medical college and hospital along with the other chairs, associate deans, and hospital chief officers. This would involve charting the direction of the institution in line with the strategic vision of the university and the core principles of IQRA – Impact, Quality, Relevance, and Access. 

Clinical
In Pakistan, the University health network includes the 710-bed Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, four woman and child hospitals with a total of over 200 beds, and approximately 300 outreach medical centres in 126 cities across the region. A five-bedded special care unit to exclusively monitor complex obstetrics and gynaecology cases is also available for patients. 

A diverse range of state-of-the-art Labour and Delivery suite including one each isolation and induction room, three triage area along with 12 labour room units. It also have 2 operating rooms and 1 recovery room with three beds. Well Baby Nursery and fully equipped Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) are located near the ward area to support the bonding of new mothers and their babies and provide around-the-clock care for high-risk and prematurely delivered babies. 

Over the past three years, the average number of patients seen in clinics at all locations was approximately 60,000, whereas inpatient care was provided to an average of 540 patients and successfully facilitated 4,800 deliveries with an average of 1,410 gynaecologic surgeries performed as well.

The Aga Khan University Hospital has multiple specialities under one roof, which enables the team of obstetricians, gynaecologists and other allied health staff to work closely with physicians from other disciplines where multi-disciplinary decisions and management of complex diseases are required with the goal to ensure the provision of customized and holistic treatment for woman's health care needs. The results ensure safe births and enhanced overall quality of life for women. The Department has a strong academic portfolio including undergraduate and postgraduate training programmes. It also offers residency and fellowship programs in sub-specialty of Uro-Gynaecology, Gynaecological-Oncology and Fetal Maternal Medicine. It is also actively involved in hospital-based as well as community-based research.
Considering its vital importance, the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology has also played a significant role in initiating the Early Childhood Development, Parenting Readiness Education Programme (ECD PREP), which offers a wide range of services on Parenting Education and Responsive Caregiving by integrating education, research and service ppatient education and nursing are vital in obstetrics and gynecology. Nurses educate women on reproductive health, pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care. They assist with prenatal monitoring, labor and delivery support, postpartum recovery, and routine gynecologic exams, ensuring comprehensive care and emotional support throughout the reproductive journey.

The Departmental Chair will build on the considerable strengths and success of the ACGME-international accredited programs and enhance the reputation. Additionally, improving the undergraduate and residency program to encourage more students to enter the field would be a key goal. 

Research
The department is highly collaborative and working closely with Centre of Excellence Women & Child Health and its Chair to help propel advancements in medical knowledge and related patient care. The department is actively involved in clinical research and has conducted a number of studies of which the results are published in National and International journals and supports them to attend different medical symposia, seminars and workshops as part of their Continual Medical Education. Residents are also encouraged to actively participate and make presentations as well.

The department boasts a highly active research faculty and staff who continuously contribute to the advancement of medical knowledge. Since 2007, the department has published 20 chapters in books, 34 articles in international journals, and 37 articles in national journals, with various abstracts presented at multiple forums.

Current areas of research interests include, but are not limited to medical education, general obstetrics and gynecology experience, fetal and maternal medicine, gynecological oncology, uro-gynecology, infertility and minimally invasive gynecological surgeries.

The incoming Chair will be expected to support the research interests and plan to evolve and expand the portfolio, harnessing the potential for extramural grant funding and collaborative opportunities locally and nationally. 

Leadership
While the tripartite academic mission as listed above would be key performances that would be assessed from the Chair, there will be an expectation that the individual would provide strong leadership for both the medical college and hospital along with the other chairs, associate deans, and hospital chief officers. This would involve charting the direction of the institution in line with the strategic vision of the university and the core principles of IQRA – Impact, Quality, Relevance, and Access. 

Job Summary
Reporting to the Dean Medical College and Chief Executive Officer, Health Services Pakistan, the Chair is expected to provide visionary leadership of the department and to oversee the departmental strategic planning to improve the quality of the clinical, educational, and research programs. Such planning should be considered within the overall vision of the University, the Medical College, and the Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi.

The recent inauguration of the Centre of Excellence in Women and Child Health signifies a significant step forward in transforming healthcare and improving the lives of women and children. It collaborates with the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology to provide top-tier clinical care, conduct innovative research, and offer specialized services for women and children. Their working framework focuses on high-quality education, research, and training programs, aiming to improve maternal and child health outcomes through collaboration and state-of-the-art facilities.

Responsibilities

Clinical Service
  • Ensure the development and application of quality management methods within the department, including establishing practice guidelines and audits; 
  • Support the CEO and SLT to ensure the annual business plans and budgets are developed according to the Service Line objectives and application of quality management methods within the Service Line, including practice guidelines and audits;
  • Support the development of new academic services and initiatives that contribute to the financial sustainability of the hospital;
  • Establish effective risk management principles and a patient satisfaction feedback evaluation system;
  • Foster good relations with community of physicians and other organizations in the community; 
  • Attend the Joint Staff Committee, Credentials Committee and other hospital committees as appropriate. 
Administration and Advocacy
  • Lead the development and enhancement of departmental clinical, educational, and research activities, in accordance with the visions and plans of the University, the Medical College and the Aga Khan University Hospital; 
  • Responsible for all aspects of departmental administration, including space, finances, support and mentoring of faculty and trainees, clinical activities, and other activities; 
  • Serve as a role model for the department by demonstrating institutional citizenship through participation in governance and in committee activities of the department, the medical college, the hospital, the University, and the profession at large;
  • Develop long range strategic plans and directions which support the mission of the faculty and the University; 
  • Ensure all University and Faculty policies are followed within the department and that all the members of the department are familiar with those policies; 
  • Represent departmental interests and build strong partnerships and collaborations at all levels, including government, affiliated teaching hospitals, research institutes and centres, granting agencies, regulatory colleges, professional associations;
  • Responsible for annual departmental budget proposal for consideration by the University. Ascertain the financial needs of the department, seek fiscal support and be responsible for the preparation of the annual budget.  Be responsible for the expenditure of funds made available to the department;
  • Foster research development by recruiting researchers within the resources available and to encourage and support current faculty members and students to participate in basic, clinical and evaluative-epidemiological studies;
  • Advocate for the department in University and Faculty affairs. The Chair will be expected to attend regularly the Medical College Faculty Council meetings and/or where participation is requested. It will be important also to foster the development of departmental faculty members in such university committees.
Educational Strategy and Support
  • Provide leadership in relation to curriculum planning, development, and innovation at the undergraduate, postgraduate and continuing education levels; 
  • Development of academic and clinical plans for the faculty and present the plans to the Dean after consultation with the Chief of Staff of the hospital and ensure delivery of the same;
  • Responsible for the educational quality of the University affiliated students for which the department is home;
  • In conjunction with the relevant Associate Deans, establish, maintain and set standards for the training of residents, interns, fellows and other learners.
Human Resource Planning
  • Responsible for the performance of faculty and staff in the principal areas of academic endeavours and the status of each of the hospital units that is under the jurisdiction of the department;
  • Responsible for maintaining the quality of the faculty and staff by protecting their interests and rights as individuals and as professional scholars and educators and for supporting their professional development;
  • Responsible for annual performance evaluation of all faculty and staff and responsible for managing all faculty appointments, re-appointments, promotions and exits according to Aga Khan University’s Policies and Procedures;
  • Serve as role model for and as overseer of matters related to career progression, equity and the assurance of a safe and respectful work environment;
  • Participate in collaboration with the Human Resources, in the discipline, suspension or and/or termination of jointly appointed physicians as per the procedures contained in the by-laws of the teaching hospital and the University regulations; 
  • Supervise the non-academic staff, ensuring that career development guidance is available to them and maintaining overall departmental responsibility for Human Resources management.
Research
  • Encourage a curiosity-driven research environment with the goals of knowledge creation, knowledge transfer, capacity building and the training, mentorship and career progression of graduate students, postgraduate students, postgraduate fellows and young investigators; 
  • Expected to continue with his/her academic pursuits by engaging in research and other scholarly activities, attendance and presentations at relevant conferences and scientific meetings, and publishing in appropriate journals;
  • Oversee the safe and efficient conduct of research by faculty members within the department;
  • Ensure research undertaken by faculty members meet the ethical and professional standards set by the department and the University. 

Requirements

This position offers an opportunity to lead an esteemed department known for excellence in patient care, research, and education. The ideal candidate will be an innovative, collaborative, and inclusive leader who champions all departmental missions and empowers faculty, staff, and learners to drive progress and maintain national prominence. 

In addition, the ideal candidate would have the following qualifications, experience and skills:

Qualifications and Leadership:
  • MBBS/MD degree from an accredited institution with completion of a residency program in Obstetrics and Gynaecology 
  • Suitable postgraduate medical qualifications with extensive academic leadership and clinical experience in a teaching hospital. 
  • Applicants with an academic rank, preferably Associate Professor or Professor who are administrators and have a track record of leadership are encouraged to apply.
  • National / international recognition as an academic authority in the field of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. Demonstrated expertise in teaching medical students and residents in Obstetrics and Gynaecology.
  • Possess a proven record of high productivity in securing research funding, publishing, teaching, training, and delivering clinical services are strongly encouraged to apply. Ideal candidates will demonstrate the ability to engage teams effectively and skillfully manage multiple organisational priorities.
Clinical:
  • Have a detailed and nuanced understanding of research, education, and clinical practice in obstetrics and gynaecology;
  • Extensive clinical experience in practicing Obstetrics and Gynaecology, including complex cases and surgical procedures 
  • Have a record of anticipating and creatively responding to challenges in the women and child health field; motivation to take step forward in transforming healthcare and improving the lives of women and children
  • Exemplify scholarly excellence and provide guidance and support to other academic leaders;
Operations and Financial Management
  • Have outstanding organisational and administrative abilities, with an in-depth understanding of internal processes in a university or healthcare system. They will identify areas for improvement in terms of efficiency and effectiveness;
  • Understand the complex financial pressures facing academic medical centers and health care delivery organizations and sophisticated understanding and ideally direct experience managing patient flows and access;
  • Possess demonstrated record of strong financial, budgeting, and resource management skills. Experience with philanthropic efforts will be advantageous;
  • Applicants with high productivity and experience in research funding and publications, teaching, training and clinical service delivery, evidence of engaging teams and balancing multiple organizational priorities will be considered
HR Management:

• Demonstrated experience in recruiting, mentoring, and retaining top faculty, fellows, and residents;
• Proven commitment to promoting equity and respect in the workplace with a respectful, inclusive, compassionate and supportive management style;

Academic and Research Suppor
Strong commitment towards search and a track record of successful grant-funded research in related fields. A strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals related to Obstetrics and Gynaecology would be beneficial
  • Can articulate a clear research vision for the entire department, provide mentorship in foundational research and grant acquisition, and demonstrate a proven track record of leading a successful research program. Should remain well-informed about emerging trends in research funding and development and be prepared to leverage these opportunities effectively;
  • Have a proven track record of developing and enhancing robust clinical programs, managing complex initiatives that prioritise accessibility, exceptional quality, and outstanding patient satisfaction. Will demonstrate strong team-building skills and the ability to provide effective leadership within a collaborative, horizontally structured organisation.

To Apply

Interested candidates are requested to submit their applications at human.resources@aku.edu with the position title in the subject line. Your application should comprise:

  • A concise covering letter expressing your interest and suitability for the role;
  • An up-to-date Curriculum Vitae;
  • Names and contact details of three referees (referees will only be approached at the final stage of the search and selection process, and only with your express permission).

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

AKU is an equal opportunity employer committed to safeguarding and maintaining appropriate standards for promoting respectful relationships with and among all faculty, staff, trainees, volunteers, beneficiaries, wider communities, and other stakeholders with whom it works with including children and vulnerable adults. It expects all employees, trainees, and partners to share this commitment.

Comprehensive employment reference checks for the finalists will be conduct

Applications should be submitted latest by February 9, 2025