Director of Nursing; DON – Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation

An established senior living and long-term care organization is seeking an experienced nursing executive to lead clinical operations, elevate care delivery standards, and drive operational excellence across a continuum of care environment. This is a highly visible leadership role responsible for shaping nursing strategy, mentoring clinical leaders, and ensuring exceptional resident outcomes and satisfaction.

• Competitive executive-level compensation package
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement savings plan with employer contribution
• Paid time off, holidays, and wellness leave
• Executive leadership development opportunities
• Tuition reimbursement and continuing education support
• Professional licensing reimbursement
• Collaborative and mission-driven leadership environment
• Employee wellness and assistance programs
• Long-term career advancement opportunities within a growing healthcare organization

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) required
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) preferred
• Active Registered Nurse license in the State of Connecticut or eligibility for Connecticut licensure through current out-of-state licensure
• Minimum 5–7 years of progressive nursing administration experience
• At least 3 years in a senior nursing leadership role such as Director of Nursing or Vice President of Patient Care Services
• Prior long-term care (LTC) experience required
• Strong understanding of budgeting, strategic planning, staffing operations, and policy development
• Experience with clinical operations oversight and regulatory compliance
• Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
• Strong organizational, leadership, and team development capabilities
• Proficiency with computer systems and reporting tools

• Lead nursing operations across a multi-level continuum of care while ensuring consistency in patient care standards and nursing practices
• Drive fiscal accountability for nursing department staffing, labor management, and annual budget development
• Mentor and develop Care Managers and nursing leadership teams with measurable accountability standards
• Partner with Human Resources to implement nursing recruitment and retention strategies
• Coordinate with clinical education and quality teams to implement staff education and continuous improvement initiatives
• Build strong collaborative relationships with physicians, senior leadership, families, and interdisciplinary departments
• Analyze operational and clinical performance metrics to support measurable improvements in care outcomes and resident satisfaction
• Oversee development and implementation of nursing policies, procedures, and strategic action plans
• Support clinical research initiatives and evidence-based nursing practices
• Lead initiatives focused on customer service excellence and person-centered care delivery

• Experience managing nursing operations within skilled nursing, rehabilitation, or senior living environments
• Demonstrated success improving resident satisfaction and quality outcomes
• Background in multi-department operational leadership
• Experience leading change management initiatives within healthcare settings
• Strong contract negotiation and strategic planning experience
• Ability to compile and present statistical and operational reports to executive leadership
• Proven success building high-performing clinical teams
• Familiarity with reimbursement processes and quality reporting programs
• Passion for person-centered care and compassionate leadership