Director, Organ Donor Optimization

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. This is an onsite leadership role based in Arizona. Candidates must reside in or be willing to relocate to Arizona.

Responsibilities

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; Monitor key performance indicators related to donor management, organ recovery, placement, and utilization; Develop and manage annual departmental budgets; Direct and oversee donor management, organ recovery, preservation, and allocation activities; Ensure donors are managed using evidence-based clinical practices to optimize organ function and transplant suitability; Partner with Referral Optimization to 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; Partner with hospital teams to foster strong working relationships and effective communication; Lead and develop managers and supervisors within the department, promoting accountability and engagement; Oversee hiring, onboarding, training, competency validation, and performance management; Monitor and analyze departmental metrics to drive continuous improvement

Requirements

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; Candidates must reside in or be willing to relocate to Arizona; Leadership Competencies: Strategic Thinking; Business Judgment; Drive for Results; Talent Management; Interpersonal Effectiveness; Building Collaboration; Integrity & Resilience; Learning Orientation; Leading Courageously

Nice to have

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

Benefits

Competitive Salary; Annual 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