About the Opportunity: Our client is seeking a Director of Nursing – Behavioral Health to lead the psychiatric nursing function and oversee the development, education, and retention of nursing staff. This strategic leadership role combines operational oversight, regulatory compliance, and quality improvement initiatives to ensure exceptional patient care and support physician collaboration. The position offers the chance to shape behavioral health programs, mentor staff, and make a meaningful impact on both patient outcomes and organizational success.
What You’ll Do:
Lead and mentor nursing associates, promoting professional growth and high standards of care
Develop long-range objectives, plans, and programs for psychiatric nursing aligned with hospital goals
Manage the nursing budget, staffing levels, and productivity while supporting recruitment and retention efforts
Collaborate with medical staff to plan, implement, and evaluate new behavioral health programs
Coordinate activities of all nursing and support staff to ensure quality patient care
Participate in the development and implementation of hospital-wide patient care programs, policies, and procedures
Monitor, evaluate, and improve quality and appropriateness of nursing care, including discharge planning
Serve on Patient Safety Committee and participate in relevant safety rounding and meetings
Oversee staff competency, orientation, and preceptor programs for clinical and psychiatric nursing
Maintain affiliations with educational institutions and manage student transition programs from classroom to clinical practice
Analyze employee turnover trends and implement retention strategies
Ensure disciplinary actions are consistent, policy-compliant, and aligned with Just Culture principles
Foster a safety-conscious work environment and uphold Service Excellence standards
Oversee facility suicide prevention training and ensure ongoing staff education
What We’re Looking For:
Graduate of an accredited RN program; Master’s degree in Nursing required (behavioral health specialization preferred)
Minimum 5 years of healthcare experience (nursing preferred) and 5 years of management experience
Current South Carolina Nursing License and CPR certification
Strong leadership, communication, and strategic planning skills
Experience in quality improvement, staff development, and regulatory compliance in behavioral health settings