Director, Nurse Anesthesia

Overview

JOB SUMMARY: The CRNA Leadership and Workforce Manager provides leadership and oversight for the clinical management and operation of the Nurse Anesthesia department. This includes directing CRNA staff, overseeing clinical anesthesia care, ensuring compliance with institutional standards, and managing staffing needs. The role involves administering anesthesia as necessary, supporting staffing during high-demand periods, and leading recruitment and retention efforts for CRNAs. Additionally, the Manager will oversee workforce development programs, collaborate with other healthcare professionals, and ensure high-quality patient care.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:

• Graduation from an accredited School of Nurse Anesthesia (CRNA) and an accredited School of Nursing.
• Master’s degree required.
• Five years of progressive clinical nurse anesthesia experience required.
• Two years of experience managing clinical staff required.

LICENSURE, CERTIFICATION, and/or REGISTRATION:

• Current license as a Registered Nurse (RN) & Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)) in the State of North Carolina.
• Certified by the Council on Certification of AANA; recertification every four years in compliance with the Council on Recertification.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Clinical Leadership and Operations:

• Fulfill clinical responsibilities, providing high-quality anesthesia care in alignment with department and AHWFB standards, contributing up to 0.5 FTE based on departmental needs.
• Model evidence-based practices, ensuring patient safety and optimal outcomes.
• Provide leadership during contingency staffing and high-demand periods, filling clinical roles as necessary.

Workforce Management:

• Oversee CRNA scheduling, staffing, and credentialing across multiple sites, ensuring timely and efficient coverage.
• Implement professional development programs to enhance CRNA skills, leadership, and career progression.
• Foster a supportive environment where CRNAs are empowered to contribute to departmental goals.

Recruitment and Retention:

• Lead recruitment efforts to attract CRNA talent and collaborate with HR and Talent Acquisition to strengthen recruitment pipelines.
• Monitor retention metrics, conduct exit interviews, and develop strategies to improve CRNA engagement and reduce turnover.

Compensation and Market Alignment:

• Monitor market trends and ensure CRNA compensation remains competitive and equitable.
• Advocate for compensation adjustments as necessary and collaborate with department leadership on financial planning.
• Review and update compensation packages, including benefits and incentives, to support recruitment and retention.

Collaborative Practice and Integration:

• Foster collaboration between CRNAs, anesthesiologists, surgeons, nursing staff, and other healthcare professionals to provide integrated care.
• Maintain communication with department leadership, site chiefs, and other stakeholders to align CRNA practices with institutional goals.

Operational Excellence and Compliance:

• Ensure compliance with regulatory and institutional standards, including credentialing and quality measures.
• Support continuous quality improvement initiatives and contribute to departmental audits and assessments.
• Ensure policies and procedures are in place to meet regulatory requirements and institutional standards.

Proactive Communication and Transparency:

• Ensure transparency in decision-making regarding staffing, scheduling, and compensation to foster trust within the CRNA team.
• Maintain regular communication with CRNA teams across all sites to share departmental updates and performance metrics.

SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS:

• Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with all levels of staff and interdisciplinary teams.
• Proficiency in scheduling, staffing management, and workforce planning.
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements (TJC, state, federal) and quality improvement initiatives.
• Ability to manage high-pressure situations and make timely decisions in emergency scenarios.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Possible exposure to infections, hazardous anesthetic agents, and body fluids.
• Occasional exposure to radiation and other hazards.
• Frequent handling of emergency or crisis situations, requiring rapid judgment and action.
• Travel required between facilities as needed.