Director, Organ Donor Optimization

About the role

Donor Network of Arizona (DNA) is seeking a strategic and mission-driven leader to serve as our Director, Organ Donor Optimization. In this critical leadership role, you will oversee all staffing, clinical operations, and performance related to organ donor management, organ recovery, preservation, and allocation.

This role ensures that every potential donor opportunity is maximized and that all viable organs are placed for transplant or research in alignment with DNA’s mission, regulatory requirements, and Tier 1 performance goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic & Operational Leadership
• Develop and implement departmental goals, strategies, and performance plans aligned with organizational objectives and Tier 1 benchmarks.
• Design and optimize departmental structure, workflows, and staffing models to ensure efficient and effective 24/7 coverage.
• Maintain visibility into quality, service levels, and operational performance.
• Ensure staff competency and compliance with Donor Network of Arizona policies, federal and state regulations, and professional standards.
• Clinical Excellence & Oversight
• Direct and oversee donor management, organ recovery, preservation, and allocation activities.
• Evaluate potential donors and support timely and effective donation processes.
• Drive efforts to minimize organ discard and maximize placement opportunities for transplant or research.
• Maintain compliance with CMS Conditions of Participation, OPTN/UNOS policies, and all applicable regulatory standards.
• Participate in organ recovery coordination as operational needs require.
• Serve as a clinical resource and advisor across departments.
• Collaboration & Relationship Management
• Foster strong working relationships and effective communication with hospital teams.
• Collaborate with Donor Family Services, Donor Program Development, and Referral Optimization to ensure seamless coordination from referral through organ placement.
• Support cross-functional initiatives to improve donation outcomes and operational performance.
• People Leadership & Culture
• Lead and develop managers and supervisors within the department, promoting accountability and engagement.
• Establish clear performance expectations and measurable outcomes.
• Hire, onboard, train, validate competency, and manage performance.
• Provide ongoing coaching, feedback, and development opportunities.
• Promote a collaborative, resilient, and mission-driven team culture aligned with DNA’s core values of Positive Energy, Passion, and Eagerness.
• Technology & Data Management
• Partner with IT and Business Intelligence teams to ensure effective utilization of technology and EMR systems.
• Ensure accurate and timely documentation and data reporting.
• Maintain current SOPs aligned with regulatory and organizational standards.

Qualifications

• Minimum Required Education & Experience:
• Bachelor’s degree required.
• CPTC (Certified Procurement Transplant Coordinator) certification required.
• 5+ years of experience within an Organ Procurement Organization (OPO).
• 3+ years of progressive leadership experience managing clinical teams.
• Critical care background with one of the following credentials: Registered Nurse (RN), Paramedic (NRP/EMT-P), Respiratory Therapist (RRT).
• Demonstrated experience improving operational performance metrics.
• Preferred Education & Experience:
• Master’s degree in Business Administration, Healthcare Management, Nursing, Leadership, or related field.
• 5+ years of OPO management experience.
• Experience leading performance improvement initiatives.
• Exposure to advanced organ utilization or preservation practices.

Leadership Competencies

• Strategic Thinking
• Business Judgment
• Drive for Results
• Talent Management
• Interpersonal Effectiveness
• Building Collaboration
• Integrity & Resilience
• Learning Orientation
• Leading Courageously

Physical & Working Conditions

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Frequent standing, walking, and hands-on clinical activity.
• Exposure to ICU, ER, and OR environments.
• Exposure to biohazardous materials (PPE required).
• Long and irregular hours, including crisis response.
• Travel as required.
• On-call or contact outside scheduled working hours.

We Offer

• Competitive Salary
• Anual Organizational Incentive Program
• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
• Paid Life & Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Voluntary Life Insurance
• 403(b) Employer Match & Profit Sharing
• Tuition Assistance
• Employee Wellness & Assistance Programs
• Inclusive culture consistently recognized as a top workplace in Arizona
• Tobacco-free, drug-free workplace

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Donor Network of Arizona is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected characteristics as outlined by federal, state, or local laws. All employment is based on qualifications, merit and business need.

If you require a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or interview process, please contact our team at [email protected]. We are committed to maintaining a drug-free workplace.