Chief Operating Officer (COO) – Stadium Road Campus

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) at the Stadium Road Campus of Aga Khan University Health Services (AKU-HS) will lead the strategic, operational, financial, and quality management of the main hospital in Karachi. Reporting directly to the CEO, the COO will ensure efficient daily operations, alignment with institutional goals, and delivery of high-quality patient care. This role requires collaboration with senior leadership and clinical teams to drive continuous improvement, optimize resources, and uphold the hospital’s mission and values within a complex healthcare environment.

Key Responsibilities

- Collaborate with the CEO and senior management to develop and implement strategic plans aligned with the institution’s vision and mission, maintaining a robust quality surveillance and improvement system.
- Oversee daily hospital operations across clinical and non-clinical departments, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness.
- Develop and enforce operational policies, procedures, and standards to enhance hospital performance.
- Work closely with Clinical Chairs and Vice Chairs to meet organizational goals, develop alternative practice models, and strengthen referral networks.
- Foster a culture of continuous improvement by monitoring performance metrics and implementing initiatives to enhance patient outcomes, satisfaction, and safety.
- Represent the hospital at board meetings, donor events, community forums, and other relevant platforms, building strong relationships with stakeholders including patients, families, staff, and regulatory bodies.
- Anticipate impacts of technological advancements and market competition on service offerings, adjusting strategies accordingly.
- Advocate for and oversee the adoption of new technologies and systems, including effective use of electronic health records (EHR) and IT infrastructure.
- Establish strategic alliances with external organizations to expand patient services and identify growth opportunities.
- Manage the hospital’s budget to ensure financial sustainability, implement cost-control measures, and optimize resource utilization without compromising care quality.
- Collaborate with the management team to foster a positive work environment and ensure compliance with human resources policies and regulations.
- Ensure delivery of patient-centered care, oversee patient safety programs, and maintain compliance with healthcare regulations, local laws, and accreditation standards.
- Lead the hospital’s emergency and crisis response efforts to ensure operational continuity and patient care.

Required Qualifications

- Master’s degree in Healthcare Administration, Business Administration, or a related discipline.
- Minimum of fifteen years of progressive leadership experience in reputable teaching healthcare institutions, with preference for experience managing international affairs in global healthcare organizations.
- Strong familiarity with healthcare quality management and commitment to patient-centered services and continuous learning.
- In-depth knowledge of financial management in university teaching hospitals or health systems in developing countries, including cost-effectiveness techniques, advanced budgeting, forecasting, and practice plan management.
- Proven track record of managing complex hospital operations and driving performance improvements.
- Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively.
- Strategic thinker with strong problem-solving capabilities.
- Comprehensive understanding of healthcare regulations, accreditation standards, financial management, and budget oversight.
- Ability to lead change, foster innovation, and guide multidisciplinary teams toward strategic objectives.
- Willingness to travel nationally and internationally as required.

Comprehensive employment reference checks will be conducted as part of the recruitment process.