Emergency Services Director - Healthcare

A leading regional tertiary and quaternary care center in Asheville is seeking an experienced Director of Emergency Services to oversee one of the regions highest-acuity emergency departments.

This facility serves as the areas only trauma center, comprehensive stroke center, and Level III NICU, supporting a large and diverse patient population.

This is a high-impact leadership role responsible for both the strategic direction and daily performance of emergency services in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.

The Director of Emergency Services holds full operational responsibility for the emergency department, including clinical quality, patient flow, staffing, financial performance, and regulatory compliance. This leader partners closely with physicians, nursing teams, and hospital administration to ensure safe, efficient, and patient-centered care delivery.

A strong focus of this role is improving throughput, optimizing resource utilization, and maintaining consistent adherence to evidence-based clinical standards. The Director also plays a key role in shaping department culture, developing leaders, and supporting long-term service line growth.

Key Responsibilities

Lead all aspects of emergency department operations, including clinical and administrative functions
Oversee patient flow, throughput, volume forecasting, and capacity management
Direct nursing practice standards, policies, and departmental procedures
Ensure compliance with regulatory, accreditation, and quality standards
Implement evidence-based practices to improve patient safety and clinical outcomes
Manage staffing models, labor utilization, and workforce planning
Oversee departmental budgeting, forecasting, and financial performance
Identify opportunities for cost reduction and operational efficiency
Partner with physicians and hospital leadership to enhance and expand emergency services
Build and develop high-performing teams through coaching and leadership development
Support performance improvement initiatives and reduce variation in clinical practice

Qualifications

Bachelor of Science in Nursing required
Masters degree in Nursing, Healthcare Administration, or related field preferred
Minimum of 5 years of emergency services experience required
At least 3 years of acute care leadership experience required
Prior Director-level experience (or equivalent) in a Level I or Level II trauma center with a high-volume ED required
Strong working knowledge of regulatory and accreditation standards in emergency care required
Experience in unionized environments preferred but not required

Benefits

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
Retirement savings program
Paid time off and holiday benefits
Employee wellness and support programs
Continuing education and leadership development opportunities
Relocation assistance considered on a case-by-case basis
Performance-based incentive opportunity up to 17.5%
Opportunity to lead emergency services at a nationally recognized Magnet facility and regional trauma center

This role offers the opportunity to lead a highly complex emergency department within a major referral center, with significant influence over clinical quality, operational performance, and strategic growth.