A director of nursing sets the clinical standard for the whole service, and in aged care they carry real accountability under the Aged Care Act. When the role is empty, or held by the wrong person, you feel it fast: agency rates, documentation slipping, good staff leaving, and problems that surface at audit.
Why these roles stay open
The nurses who can do this job well are almost always employed, and most of them aren't on job boards. They move when someone gives them a clear reason to, and that's usually the team and the support from above, not just the salary. An advert rarely reaches them. A direct, confidential approach does.
I approach them personally, I'm straight with them about the service and what it needs, and I'll tell you when someone looks right on paper but isn't the right leader for your team.
Roles I recruit
- Directors of nursing and directors of clinical services
- Assistant and deputy directors of nursing
- Clinical services managers and care managers
- Nurse unit managers in private hospitals and day surgeries
Send me the brief or book a 30 minute call
How it works
One brief call, a shortlist within 21 days, usually around two weeks, and a written update every Friday. Senior searches can take longer, and if yours will, I tell you before I start.
Director of nursing and other senior appointments are 18 per cent of first year base salary plus super, plus GST, invoiced on the start date and payable within seven days. Standard appointments are 15 per cent of first year base salary plus super, plus GST, payable within seven days of the person starting. I confirm which applies when you brief me, and either way you can pay in full or spread the fee over six months interest free. Every placement comes with a six month guarantee: if they leave in that time, I run the search again from scratch at no charge. If the search fails, it costs nothing.
If you're already advertising, keep your ad running. I'll screen those applicants for you at no cost.
Not sure what to pay? My nurse salary guide covers what these roles are advertised at and how to build an offer a nurse will accept.
Need it kept quiet? The role can be advertised without naming you, and your details only go to candidates I've screened and spoken to.
Send me the brief or book a 30 minute call
Common questions
How much does it cost to recruit a director of nursing through Aussie Nurse Recruiters?
18 per cent of first year base salary plus the compulsory super on it, plus GST, payable within seven days of the person starting, or over six months interest free. If the search fails, it costs nothing.
How long does it take to hire a director of nursing?
You get a shortlist within 21 days of the brief, usually around two weeks. Senior nurses often have notice periods of four weeks or more, so allow for that in your start date.
Can you run a confidential director of nursing search?
Yes. The role can be advertised without naming you, and your details only go to candidates I have screened and spoken to.
Do you recruit directors of nursing in regional areas?
Yes, nationally, including regional services. Location is rarely the real reason a senior role stays open. How the role is pitched usually is.
Michelle Mexted
Founder, your recruiter on every search
You'll deal with me from the first call to the day your nurse starts. No account manager, no handover. Send me the brief and I'll come back to you within 24 to 48 hours.
"Michelle was wonderful, she worked to understand the ethos of our clinic and find us the best fit." Ellie, Practice Manager
Send me the briefor call me on 03 9088 1339