Director of Nursing (DON), Full-time

Job Summary

The Director of Nursing (DON) provides clinical leadership for Hospice Savannah, including the execution of our vision and strategic plan that shapes the direction of clinical practices and outcomes. This role serves as a clinical expert and advocate for high quality, safe and consistent patient care, grounded in evidence‑based practices and commitment to continuous improvement and innovation. The DON provides clinical supervision of managers and directors across clinical departments, including HIPU, Home Care, Admissions, and Education, and consistently demonstrates Hospice Savannah’s values and service excellence standards.

The DON is responsible for all clinical services within hospice operations and works closely with operational leadership to plan, organize and staff clinical departments. This position participates in developing, implementing, and managing departmental budgets, oversees clinical staff retention efforts, and identifies opportunities for education and training to ensure clinical competence among direct care staff. The DON ensures that all services comply with applicable federal, state, funding, certification, and licensing requirements.

The DON is also prepared to assume the clinical duties and responsibilities of the Chief Clinical Officer of Quality and Culture when the Chief Clinical Officer of Quality and Culture is absent or unavailable.

• Solid educational background including a bachelor’s degree in nursing or related field preferred.
• Minimum of 3 years of senior level management experience required.
• At least 3 years of hospice experience required.
• Computer proficiency, including healthcare management software.
• Strong understanding of hospice regulatory standards.
• Valid driver’s license and automobile insurance required.
• Current, unencumbered Georgia RN License.

• Master’s degree in nursing preferred.
• Compassionate and patient centered approach to care.
• Proven track record of successful clinical and business management of health service organizations.
• Experience supervising seasoned staff operating multiple programs across an organization.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Certification in Hospice and Palliative Care preferred.
• Knowledge of patient‑centered care principles and ability to demonstrate compassion in all clinical interactions.
• Skill in problem‑solving, decision‑making, and timely conflict resolution, including managing sensitive issues with professionalism, confidence, and confidentiality. Ability to maintain composure and objectivity in emotionally charged situations while supporting others in doing the same.
• Strong organizational and time‑management skills to prioritize and manage multiple responsibilities effectively.
• Ability to collaborate across interdisciplinary teams to support coordinated patient care.
• Proficient in budget management and resource allocation.
• Adept at policy development and quality improvement processes.
• Ability to demonstrate confidence, compassion, and professionalism in leadership and clinical decision‑making.
• Sound clinical judgement. Effective at organizing, developing and leading teams.

Position requires moderate visual concentration. While in patient care areas, there is a risk of exposure to infectious diseases requiring standard safety precautions. This position requires the ability to lift up to 50 lbs. utilizing proper body mechanics and the mobility to drive, lift, bend or stoop either assisted or unassisted by devices. The role will involve both office and fieldwork, attending offsite meetings and educational opportunities, and may include site visits.

On‑call responsibilities may be required for clinical/administrative matters. The Director of Nursing is required to participate in the Clinical on‑call rotation.

This position works a general schedule 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday with frequent requests to work additional days/hours as needed for the successful completion of assigned tasks.

Must be able to travel as required. This position requires a moderate amount of driving utilizing the employee’s personal vehicle.