Director of Nursing - Acute Behavioral Health

Director of Nursing – Acute Behavioral Health
Leadership. Accountability. Growth.

At this moment in our partner’s evolution, nursing leadership matters more than ever.

We are seeking an experienced Director of Nursing to lead clinical operations within a well-established behavioral health hospital that is fully operational today—and thoughtfully preparing for what’s next. This is an opportunity for a hands-on, outcomes-driven nursing leader to elevate standards, strengthen culture, and partner closely with senior leadership as the organization prepares for expansion.

The Opportunity
This role is ideal for a Director of Nursing who brings both clinical credibility and leadership presence—someone who leads from the front, sets clear expectations, and understands how strong nursing operations directly impact patient outcomes, staff engagement, and organizational growth.

The hospital is part of a larger system, offering the stability of established infrastructure alongside the autonomy to lead locally. While the organization is performing, there is meaningful opportunity for a nursing leader to provide seasoned guidance, reinforce accountability, and help position the facility for its next phase.

What You’ll Do

• Provide strategic and operational leadership for all nursing services within the hospital
• Establish and maintain high clinical standards, ensuring regulatory compliance and quality outcomes
• Build, develop, and retain a strong nursing leadership team through coaching, presence, and accountability
• Partner closely with administration and executive leadership on operational and clinical initiatives
• Maintain visibility on the units, supporting staff and modeling leadership in day-to-day operations
• Play a key role in planning and preparing the nursing department for future growth and expansion

Who Thrives in This Role

• A confident, experienced DON with a proven track record of results in behavioral health or acute psych settings
• A leader who is comfortable being visible, engaged, and involved in daily operations
• Someone who enjoys setting direction, holding teams accountable, and creating a positive, professional work environment
• A leader energized by challenge and growth—not someone seeking a purely administrative role

This role is not a fit for someone who prefers distance from operations or minimal day-to-day involvement.

What Sets This Role Apart

• Genuine autonomy with strong partnership from senior leadership
• A hospital that is stable, full, and preparing for expansion—creating real opportunity for impact
• Support from a larger health system with potential for future growth and advancement
• The chance to shape nursing operations in a way that leaves a lasting mark on the organization

Compensation & Support

• Competitive compensation aligned with market expectations
• Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates
• The backing of an organization that values strong nursing leadership and clinical excellence

Minimum Qualifications:

• Current state RN licensure or ability to quickly obtain
• BSN required, MSN preferred
• 2+ years’ experience in acute behavioral health director or assistant director leadership
• Knowledgeable in de-escalation practices
• BLS certification

The Bottom Line
This is a meaningful role. For the right nursing leader, it offers the opportunity to step into a visible, influential position, make a real difference, and help guide a hospital into its next chapter of growth.

If you’re a Director of Nursing who wants work that matters—and leadership that’s worth the effort—we’d welcome the conversation.