Senior Director Professional Practice (RN)

, VA Full-Time Regular $170,000.00 - $185,000.00

A progressive, non-profit, mission-driven health system in Virginia is seeking a transformational nursing leader to serve as its Senior Director of Professional Practice (RN)

This is a high-impact, system-level role responsible for leading professional practice, nursing education, workforce development, and research initiatives across multiple facilities.

You’ll oversee a department of 120+ FTEs, including three (3) direct reports, and collaborate closely with the System Chief Nursing Officer and senior leadership to advance nursing excellence and improve outcomes system-wide.

Key Responsibilities for the Senior Director Professional Practice (RN)

  • Develop and execute the strategic direction for nursing professional practice across the system

  • Lead RN workforce initiatives to support recruitment, retention, and internal agency staffing growth

  • Redesign and modernize the RN Residency Program, with a strong focus on simulation-based learning

  • Advance nursing research, secure grants, and foster state-level professional engagement

  • Chair the Professional Development Council, aligning goals with the System CNO

  • Set clear departmental goals, metrics, and accountability structures

  • Conduct a deep dive into life safety practices and lead system improvements

  • Support nursing innovation, shared governance, and staff development initiatives

Qualifications for the Senior Director Professional Practice (RN)

  • Active RN license State of Virginia required

  • MSN required; DNP or PhD preferred

  • Minimum five (5) years clinical nursing, of which at least three (3) have been in progressive nursing leadership roles, ideally at a system or academic medical center level

  • Experience with nursing education, simulation, workforce development, and evidence-based practice

  • Strong background in leading large teams and managing change across complex healthcare settings

Compensation & Benefits for the Senior Director Professional Practice (RN)

  • Salary: Up to $185,000 annually

  • Bonus: Up to 10% annual performance bonus

  • Increases: Eligible for annual merit-based salary increases

  • Relocation Assistance: Available for eligible candidates

  • Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, 401(k) match, generous PTO, and more

Why You’ll Love This Role

  • Be a system-level change agent for nursing practice and professional development

  • Lead a talented team in a high-visibility, mission-aligned organization

  • Collaborate directly with a forward-thinking System CNO and executive team

  • Make a lasting impact on workforce sustainability, patient care, and staff satisfaction

For immediate and confidential consideration, please apply via the link and a member of our recruitment team will be in touch to discuss the role and answer any additional questions.

Contact Information

Jill Jarufe jill@np-hc.com (972) 318-9803

Please submit your most recent resume and application prior to contacting a member of our team for additional details about the specific position you are interested in.