Director of Nursing (DON)

Join the team at the #1 rated Continuing Care Retirement Community in the State of Illinois! The Admiral at the Lake is seeking a passionate, experienced nursing leader to serve as Director of Nursing.

This role provides clinical and operational leadership across the full continuum of care skilled nursing, assisted living, and residential living in a community where older adults experience freedom, growth, dignity, and self-expression.

The Director of Nursing ensures exceptional, person-centered care while upholding regulatory compliance, advancing quality outcomes, and fostering a supportive and engaged nursing team.

Primary Responsibilities Clinical and Operational Leadership Provide overall clinical and management leadership for the nursing department across all levels of campusEnsure nursing practice aligns with The Admirals mission, vision, values, and person-centered philosophyReinforce high standards of care, professionalism, accountability, and ethical practiceServe as a visible, accessible leader who supports and motivates staff Staff Development and Team Leadership Hire, orient, and onboard licensed and unlicensed nursing personnelOversee staffing assignments to promote consistency of care and continuity for residentsCoach, mentor, and evaluate staff performance using a servant leadership approachAddress performance issues through progressive discipline and termination when necessaryCreate an environment of learning by providing education, training, and professional development opportunities Person-Centered Care and Resident Experience Promote resident choice, autonomy, and shared decision-makingSupport whole-person wellness and quality of life for residentsRecognize and honor each residents potential to live a rich and meaningful lifeMaintain strict confidentiality and uphold resident rights at all times Regulatory Compliance and Survey Readiness Ensure compliance with state and federal regulations, accreditation standards, and organizational policiesDevelop, implement, and maintain nursing policies and proceduresLead survey preparation activities and serve as a primary leader during surveysEstablish oversight systems including audits, chart reviews, and clinical roundsEnsure nursing documentation and medical records meet regulatory and professional standardsParticipate in organizational compliance activities and required compliance education Quality Improvement and Best Practices Hold staff accountable to established clinical standards and best practicesFacilitate campus quality improvement meetings and initiativesLead continuous quality improvement efforts aimed at achieving the highest outcomesMaintain professional growth through conferences, seminars, networking, and independent study Interdisciplinary Collaboration and Teamwork Foster a collaborative, resident-centered team environmentSupport decentralized teams and cross-training in blended rolesUtilize a team-based approach to decision-making and problem-solvingBuild strong w...