Lead Pathologist

Job Description

The Lead Pathologist is a senior medical professional responsible for overseeing all diagnostic pathology services within the Diagnostics Services department. The successful candidate will play a critical role in ensuring accurate diagnoses through the careful evaluation of laboratory specimens, including tissue samples, blood, and other bodily fluids. This position is pivotal for fostering a culture of excellence in diagnostic accuracy, timely reporting, and comprehensive patient care.

The Lead Pathologist will collaborate closely with other medical professionals, including oncologists, surgeons, and general physicians, to provide integrated care for patients. By establishing and maintaining high standards for laboratory practices, the Lead Pathologist ensures that the department meets all regulatory and accreditation requirements. This role also includes supervising a team of pathologists and laboratory staff, mentoring junior pathologists, and leading continuing professional development initiatives to enhance the skill set of the team.

In addition to clinical responsibilities, the Lead Pathologist will be involved in the development of new diagnostic protocols and methodologies to improve service delivery. This includes critically evaluating emerging technologies and techniques that can enhance diagnostic capabilities. The role involves active engagement in research activities, focusing on innovations in diagnostic pathology that can further elevate the department's service quality.

Furthermore, the Lead Pathologist will ensure effective quality assurance measures are in place and routinely monitor diagnostic outcomes for continuous improvement. The incumbent will also be responsible for managing relationships with external laboratories, ensuring seamless diagnostic support when necessary. With a commitment to patient-centered care, the Lead Pathologist will advocate for the integration of pathology services within the broader healthcare delivery system, always prioritizing patient safety and satisfaction.

As part of their leadership duties, the Lead Pathologist will participate in departmental strategic planning, budgeting, and resource allocation to meet the organization's objectives. This leadership position requires excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills to foster effective collaboration and cooperation within the medical team and across departments. Ultimately, the Lead Pathologist embodies the vision of the organization by delivering exceptional diagnostic services that support high-quality patient care and contribute to the overall mission of enhancing healthcare outcomes in Nigeria.

Qualifications

Qualifications

Essential

• Medical degree (MBBS or equivalent) from a recognized institution

• Evidence of commitment to continuing professional Development

• Minimum of 7 years of experience in diagnostic pathology, with significant exposure to subspecialties.

• Board certification in pathology with a valid medical license to practice in Nigeria.

• Expertise in histopathology, cytopathology, and molecular pathology techniques.

• Strong understanding of laboratory quality management systems and regulatory compliance.

• Proficiency in using advanced diagnostic technologies and laboratory information systems.

• Exceptional analytical skills for accurate and timely diagnosis of pathologies.

• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, for effective interactions with healthcare teams.

Desirable

• Postgraduate training in pathology (e.g., FRCPath, ACLPS) or equivalent.

• Professional qualification in a relevant subject

Management and Leadership

• Lead the development and implementation of strategic plans for the Diagnostics Services department.

• Collaborate with leadership to define departmental goals that align with the organization's mission and vision.

• Ensure financial management of the department, including budget preparation and monitoring expenditures.

• Participate in the procurement of laboratory equipment and technology to enhance diagnostic capabilities.

• Engage in organizational initiatives aimed at improving patient care and operational efficiency.

• Collaborate with multidisciplinary medical teams, including surgeons and oncologists, to ensure comprehensiveness in patient diagnosis and care.

• Maintain open communication channels with laboratory personnel to facilitate efficient workflow and problem-solving.

• Supervise all pathologists and laboratory clinicians, ensuring they adhere to organizational standards.

• Conduct performance evaluations for direct reports, providing constructive feedback and identifying professional development opportunities.

• Implement mentorship programs for junior pathologists, facilitating their clinical training and career growth.

• Shares the AMCE’s vision and values

• Commitment to clinical governance / improving quality of patient care

Personal Attributes

• Professional attitude towards work

• Shares the AMCE’s vision

• Proactive and organised

• Commitment to clinical governance / improving quality of patient care

• Has personal and professional credibility and commands the respect of colleagues peers 

• Is supportive and approachable and capable of inspiring confidence in staff members

• Commitment to caring for others

• Ability to adapt to living in a new country and new culture accordingly

• High levels of honesty and integrity

Languages

• All applicants to have demonstrable skills in written and spoken English that are adequate to enable effective communication about medical topics with patients and colleagues

• Skills in languages other than English    

Additional Information

African Medical Centre of Excellence, Abuja (AMCE Abuja) aims to be an Employer of Choice, providing equal opportunity for everyone regardless of their background, gender, race and other protected characteristics.