Chief Operating Officer

The Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH), a leading not-for-profit healthcare institution in Karachi, is seeking a Chief Operating Officer (COO) for its Stadium Road Hospital. AKUH provides comprehensive medical services through its tertiary care hospital, a network of secondary care hospitals, numerous medical centers, clinical laboratories, and pharmacies across Pakistan. The hospital is recognized for its commitment to quality and patient safety, holding accreditations from the Joint Commission International (JCI) and the College of American Pathologists (CAP). The COO will play a pivotal role in ensuring the hospital operates efficiently, delivers high-quality patient care, and aligns with the institution’s strategic goals and mission.

Key Responsibilities

The COO will report directly to the CEO of AKUH Health System and will be responsible for the strategic, operational, financial, and quality management of the Stadium Road Hospital. This includes overseeing daily hospital operations across clinical and non-clinical departments to ensure smooth and effective functioning.

Collaborating with the CEO and senior management, the COO will develop and implement strategic plans consistent with the institution’s vision and mission. They will maintain a robust quality surveillance and improvement system, promoting continuous enhancement of patient outcomes, satisfaction, and safety.

The role requires close coordination with clinical leadership, including Chairs and Vice Chairs, to meet set goals and explore alternative models of practice and referral networks. The COO will also represent the hospital at board meetings, donor functions, community forums, and other relevant platforms, fostering strong relationships with stakeholders such as patients, families, staff, and regulatory bodies.

Anticipating the impact of technological advances and market competition, the COO will adapt strategies accordingly and advocate for the adoption of new technologies, including effective use of electronic health records (EHR) and other IT systems. They will also establish strategic alliances with external organizations to enhance patient services and identify growth opportunities.

Financial stewardship is a critical aspect of the role, with responsibilities including managing the hospital’s budget, ensuring financial sustainability, implementing cost-control measures, and optimizing resource utilization without compromising care quality.

The COO will foster a positive work environment, ensuring compliance with human resources policies and regulations, and lead patient safety programs aligned with healthcare regulations, local laws, and accreditation standards. They will prepare the hospital for inspections and audits and lead emergency and crisis response efforts to maintain continuity of operations and patient care.

Required Qualifications

Candidates must hold a Master’s degree in Healthcare Administration, Business Administration, or a related discipline. A minimum of fifteen years of progressive leadership experience in reputable teaching healthcare institutions is essential, with preference given to those who have managed international affairs within global healthcare organizations.

Experience in healthcare quality management and maintaining patient-centered services is required, alongside a strong understanding of financial management in university teaching hospitals or health systems in developing countries. This includes expertise in cost-effectiveness techniques, advanced budgeting, forecasting, and practice plans.

A proven track record of managing complex hospital operations and driving performance improvements is necessary. Candidates should demonstrate strong leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively.

Strategic thinking, problem-solving abilities, knowledge of healthcare regulations and accreditation standards, and financial acumen are critical. The ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, drive change, foster innovation, and willingness to travel nationally and internationally as required are also important.

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

Application Process

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply through the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) Career Centre. The closing date for applications is 18 October 2026.