Palliative Care Namibia (PCN), part of the Cancer Association of Namibia, seeks a Unit Hospitality & Operations Coordinator for House Zietsman in Windhoek. This role involves coordinating daily hospitality, housekeeping, and operations to ensure a safe and dignified environment for patients and staff. The Coordinator will work with the Unit Nursing Lead and Medical Assistant, overseeing housekeeping and kitchen teams to maintain standards. Ideal candidates should be practical, organized, and caring, with experience in hospitality, healthcare, or similar fields being advantageous.

Job Summary

Employer: Palliative Care Namibia
Job Type: Full-time
Location: Windhoek, Namibia
Category: Healthcare
Closing Date: 2026-09-25

Key Responsibilities

Coordinate the daily housekeeping and kitchen routines of the Unit;
Allocate and coordinate daily tasks within the housekeeping and kitchen teams;
Monitor cleanliness, hygiene, laundry, linen and general household standards;
Coordinate meal and kitchen requirements in collaboration with the Food Handler/Cook;
Ad-hoc food preparation and service will be required;
Monitor household, cleaning, laundry and kitchen supplies and communicate requirements;
Coordinate routine property and facility upkeep and report maintenance requirements;
Support the overall patient and family hospitality experience;
Ensure common areas, patient rooms and household spaces are welcoming, orderly and appropriately maintained;
Work closely with the medical and care team to respond to operational needs affecting the Unit;
Rotational administration (Front Office);
Promote a culture of teamwork, respect, accountability and care; and
Escalate operational, staffing, maintenance or other concerns to the appropriate supervisor.

Requirements

Namibian Citizenship or Permanent Resident;
School Leaving Certificate;
Diploma in Hospitality will be advantageous;
Good organisational and coordination skills;
Practical experience in hospitality, housekeeping, and/or household operations;
Ability to coordinate people and daily activities;
Strong attention to cleanliness, hygiene and detail;
Good communication and interpersonal skills;
A respectful and empathetic approach to patients and families;
Reliability, accountability and initiative;
Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team;
A hands-on approach to getting things done;
Valid Driver’s Licence (non-negotiable)
Police Clearance Certificate (non-negotiable)

How to Apply

Apply by email: help@can.org.na

REF Code: PATTERSON B4

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications or certifications are typically required for a Unit Hospitality & Operations Coordinator role in palliative care in Namibia?

Employers usually require a diploma or degree in hospitality management, healthcare administration, or a related field. Experience in healthcare settings and certifications in patient care or operations management are highly valued. Proficiency in English and local languages is often essential for effective communication with patients and families.

What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of this role in a Namibian palliative care setting?

Daily tasks include coordinating patient admissions and discharges, managing facility operations, overseeing housekeeping and catering services, and ensuring compliance with health regulations. You will also liaise with medical staff, handle supply chain logistics, and maintain records. Strong organizational skills are critical to balance clinical and non-clinical demands.

How does local work culture in Namibia affect expectations for this position?

Namibian workplaces emphasize respect for hierarchy, punctuality, and collaborative relationships across diverse teams. Employers expect flexibility and cultural sensitivity when serving patients from various ethnic backgrounds. Building trust with communities and demonstrating commitment to compassionate care are highly regarded.

What realistic career progression paths exist from this role in Namibia's healthcare sector?

With experience, you can advance to senior operations manager, facility administrator, or regional healthcare coordinator positions. Further studies in healthcare management or public health can open doors to policy or executive roles. Networking through professional bodies like the Namibia Healthcare Association supports career mobility.

What typical benefits should I expect when applying for this role in Namibia?

Benefits vary by employer but commonly include annual leave, medical aid contributions, and pension fund participation. Non-governmental organizations and private facilities may offer additional allowances for transport or housing. Always confirm specifics during the interview process, as packages differ significantly between public and private sectors.

How should I apply, and what do Namibian employers in palliative care look for in candidates?

Submit a detailed CV and cover letter highlighting relevant hospitality, healthcare, or operations experience through advertised channels or directly to facilities. Employers prioritize candidates with proven multitasking abilities, empathy for terminally ill patients, and knowledge of Namibian healthcare regulations. References from previous healthcare or hospitality roles strengthen your application considerably.