Director of Nursing (DON)
General
Westmeath, WestmeathFull timeRecruitNet International Ltd specialises in Healthcare recruitment for Domestic and Overseas candidates for Hospitals, Nursing Homes, Home care and Community care. We are urgently seeking Director of Nursing (DON) for a hospital in Westmeath Ireland. Responsibilities Provide strategic nursing leadership to the CEO and Executive Team on clinical governance, patient safety, statutory compliance, and best nursing practices. Ensure compliance with HIQA, NMBI, and national standards, maintaining robust nursing policies, accreditation readiness, and regulatory documentation. Lead the development of nursing strategies, including evidence-based policies, service planning, and workforce initiatives aligned with hospital goals. Represent nursing services on hospital committees, multidisciplinary forums, and with external stakeholders to advance clinical and organisational objectives. Oversee nursing budgets, staffing, and resource allocation, ensuring efficient use of funds, cost control, and succession planning. Provide professional and operational leadership to ADONs, CNMs, and nursing teams, fostering a culture of accountability, teamwork, and excellence. Drive continuous professional development, ensuring all nursing staff meet competency, education, and training requirements. Act as Executive Lead for Quality, Risk, and Patient Safety, integrating these principles into daily hospital operations and decision-making. Monitor quality and performance indicators, leading audits, risk assessments, and corrective action plans to ensure safe, high-quality patient care. Promote a culture of safety, learning, and innovation, encouraging open communication, reporting, and continuous improvement across all nursing services. Requirements Registered General Nurse with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI) or eligibility for registration. Postgraduate qualification (Level 8 QQI or higher) in Healthcare Management, Nursing, or a related discipline relevant to the role. Minimum of 10 years’ post-registration nursing experience, including 5 years in nursing management, with at least 3 years at senior management level in an acute hospital setting. Proven expertise in clinical governance, quality, risk, and patient safety management at a senior or executive level. Strong background in workforce planning, resource management, and multidisciplinary team leadership. Demonstrated success in service improvement, accreditation, and compliance with national and regulatory standards. Strategic thinker capable of aligning clinical priorities with organisational goals. Collaborative and motivational leader with excellent communication and people management skills. Committed to continuous improvement, innovation, and delivery of high-quality, patient-centred care. Benefits Competitive salary and sign-on bonus Full-time, permanent employment contract Continuous professional development and training opportunities Supportive and collaborative working environment Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) Career progression opportunities within the organisation Free on-site parking Bike-to-Work Scheme Sick pay and staff wellbeing supports