Director of Patient Care Services - Emergency Services

Emory Healthcare•Atlanta, GA

About The Position

The Director of Patient Care Services leads and manages clinical operations and initiatives to achieve productivity, quality, safety, and patient satisfaction goals. Reporting directly to the Chief Nursing Officer/VP Patient Care Services or the Associate Chief Nursing Officer of a specific Emory Healthcare operating unit or practice area, the Director collaborates with operating entity ACNOs, the VP of Nursing, medical directors, physicians, and nursing staff to develop, implement, and evaluate nursing operational plans, objectives, and standards. The role is accountable for budget oversight, resource allocation, and strategic growth initiatives that support high-quality, cost-effective patient care. The Director develops strategic growth and operational objectives, uses data and analytics to assess growth and financial impact, oversees clinical workflows and budgets, and promotes consistent policies, training, and competencies across the health system. The position also leads quality and safety initiatives, supports regulatory compliance and accreditation, advances evidence-based practice and research, and builds a culture of engagement, inclusion, accountability, and professional growth. The role requires a master's degree in nursing, or a master's degree in another discipline with a BSN. For non-nursing orthopedic areas, a Master of Science as an Athletic Trainer is required. Nursing candidates need at least seven years of progressively responsible senior nursing leadership experience, a valid Georgia RN license for acute or ambulatory settings, and an applicable nursing executive certification within one year of entering the role. BLS is required; ACLS may be necessary depending on specialty. A doctoral degree and ten or more years of senior nursing leadership experience are preferred.

Requirements

For nursing roles: a master's degree in nursing from an accredited school of nursing, or a master's degree in another discipline with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
For non-nursing orthopedic areas: a Master of Science as an Athletic Trainer.
At least seven years of progressively responsible senior nursing leadership experience.
In-depth knowledge of nursing competencies, scope of practice, and professional practice.
Experience with strategic planning and execution in complex healthcare environments.
For acute or ambulatory nursing settings: a valid, unencumbered Registered Nursing License approved by the Georgia Board of Nursing.
For oversight of virtual care activities: an active compact/multistate license (eNLC) is required within 60 days of hire.
Nursing Executive Certification (NE-BC or NEA-BC), or a comparable certification (CNML or CENP), must be obtained within one year of entry into the role.
BLS certification required.
ACLS certification may be necessary depending on specialty area, post hire.
Proven leadership experience managing large-scale clinical operations.
Ability to synthesize information from multiple stakeholders quickly.
Excellent communication, engagement, and problem-solving skills.
Expertise in quality improvement, financial management, and regulatory compliance.
Passion for healthcare innovation and patient-centered care.

Nice To Haves

Doctoral degree (DNP, PhD, or DrPH) strongly preferred.
At least ten years of progressively responsible senior nursing leadership experience.
Experience working in a Magnet hospital or on a Magnet journey.

Responsibilities

Lead development and execution of strategic growth and operational objectives for the service.
Collaborate with entity ACNOs, physicians, and nursing staff to align goals with Emory Healthcare's mission and vision.
Use data-driven analytics to project growth, financial impact, and service vision.
Develop programs to enhance value-based services and regulatory compliance.
Oversee clinical and operational workflows to optimize patient care and service efficiency.
Ensure cost-effective resource utilization and monitor functional unit nursing budgets.
Standardize policies, procedures, orientation, training programs, and clinical competencies across the health system.
Foster collaboration between entities to maintain accreditation, certification, and high-performance recognition.
Work with the Office of Quality to lead service quality committees and initiatives.
Implement evidence-based practice strategies to enhance patient safety and risk management.
Monitor quality metrics to improve outcomes and avoid financial disincentives.
Promote participation in research and integrate findings into clinical practice.
Develop and maintain a culture of engagement, accountability, and professional growth.
Promote a diverse and inclusive environment reflecting the community served.
Support staff development through coaching, mentorship, and competency assessments.
Ensure a healthy work environment that encourages collaboration and high morale.
Plan and execute financial strategies to meet budgetary and operational goals.
Advocate for optimal resource allocation to enhance patient care services.
Drive efficiency improvements while maintaining high-quality patient care standards.