Director of Nursing

Job Description

Job Description

Director of Nursing (DON)

Western North Carolina | Ascent Healthcare Management

Lead with purpose. Build with passion. Raise the standard of care.

Ascent Healthcare Management is searching for a Director of Nursing who is more than a manager — we want a leader . Someone who sets the tone, builds strong teams, and takes pride in doing things the right way, even when it’s hard.

If you’re a DON who is tired of putting out fires and ready to build something better — we want to talk to you.

Who We Are

Ascent Healthcare Management operates skilled nursing and rehabilitation communities across Western North Carolina. We are known for:

• Strong leadership partnerships

• A culture that values accountability and kindness

• Growing facilities with high standards

• A hands-on corporate team that supports our DONs

• A mission built on grit, grace, and excellence in care

We do not believe in “warm body” leadership. We believe in present, accountable, engaged Directors of Nursing who lead from the front.

The Role

As Director of Nursing, you will lead clinical operations with confidence and clarity. This role is for an experienced nursing leader who can run a building — not just a schedule.

You will:

• Lead and inspire the nursing team (RNs, LPNs, CNAs, Wound and ALL staff)

• Ensure regulatory compliance at all times (CMS, State Regulations)

• Own quality outcomes, clinical excellence, and risk management

• Develop and mentor unit managers and nursing supervisors

• Partner with Administration and Corporate Clinical leadership

• Drive survey preparedness and response

• Be present, visible, and engaged on the floor

• Hold people accountable — fairly, consistently, and with respect

• Lead by example in professionalism, urgency, and compassion

Who You Are

We are not looking for a résumé — we’re looking for a leader.

The ideal candidate:

• Is a seasoned DON or ADON ready to step up

• Has a strong clinical background in long-term care or skilled nursing

• Understands survey process and compliance inside and out

• Knows how to build trust with staff and families

• Can challenge poor performance and celebrate excellence

• Brings solutions, not excuses

• Leads with confidence without ego

• Can manage chaos while building structure

• Has a heart for residents and a backbone for leadership

Qualifications

• Active RN license (North Carolina)

• Minimum 3–5 years of nursing leadership experience in long-term care or skilled nursing

• Demonstrated success in survey readiness and regulatory compliance

• Proven ability to lead teams and produce results

• Strong communication and organizational skills

• EMR experience preferred (PointClickCare or similar)

• Understands Quality Assurance and how vital this understanding and monitoring is for a successful DON. 

Why Ascent?

• Strong corporate support — you are not alone

• Leadership who listens — and acts

• Competitive compensation

• Growth opportunities

• A culture that values people first

• Facilities that are moving forward — not stuck in the past

Ready to Lead?

If you are a proven nursing leader who wants to leave a lasting mark, build strong teams, and take pride in running a great building — we would love to meet you.

Apply today and help us raise the bar for care in Western North Carolina.