Director Professional Practice & Clinical Education

The Director of Professional Practice and Clinical Education is responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing educational programs to ensure high-quality clinical training and professional development for nursing staff. This leadership role focuses on aligning educational initiatives with organizational goals, regulatory requirements, and evidence-based practices. The Director collaborates with healthcare leaders, educators, and clinical teams to foster a culture of continuous learning and clinical excellence. Key responsibilities include curriculum development, staff competency assessment, mentorship, and quality improvement initiatives.

What You'll Do:

• Lead Nursing Practice Initiatives: You'll be responsible for advancing and supporting professional nursing practice across the health system, ensuring alignment with the organization's values, strategic goals, and vision for the future of nursing.

• Design and Deliver Education: You'll plan, implement, and evaluate high-quality educational programs for nursing staff-addressing onboarding, clinical competencies, continuing education, and emerging learning needs.

• Support Clinical Growth: You'll work closely with frontline staff and nurse leaders to assess learning gaps, develop growth plans, and promote lifelong learning. Your work will help ensure nursing staff feel confident, prepared, and supported.

• Champion Standards of Care: Your role will involve making sure nursing education and practice are aligned with current evidence-based standards, regulatory requirements, and professional guidelines.

• Inspire and Motivate: Through mentoring, coaching, and professional development planning, you'll help foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and pride in practice.

What It's Really Like:

• This is a visible and hands-on leadership role-you'll spend time connecting with nurses and leaders throughout the organization, not just behind a desk.

• You'll need to be strategic and adaptable, balancing long-term planning with emerging priorities and workforce needs.

• The job demands excellent communication skills, from writing professional development plans to leading workshops and facilitating interdepartmental collaboration.

• Expect to work on multiple initiatives simultaneously, requiring effective time management and the ability to prioritize.

• The impact is tangible: you'll influence nursing confidence, patient care quality, and the overall employee experience.

What We're Looking For:

• A Master's in Nursing (MSN) is required; a Doctorate in Nursing is preferred.

• Previous leadership experience in professional practice or education, with a track record of measurable achievements.

• A current RN license in Maryland or an approved Compact state (meeting Maryland Board of Nursing requirements).

• National certification in a nursing specialty area.

• A dynamic leader with strong teaching, coaching, and presentation skills-someone who inspires others and leads with purpose.

Caring for Our Team

We offer a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees' well-being and professional growth. Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance available starting the 1st of the month following date of hire, along with life insurance, & short and long-term disability coverage. Paid Time Off begins accruing from day one, and we also provide a 401k plan, an education assistance program, and an employee assistance program. Additionally, employees working evening, night, or weekend shifts may be eligible for a shift differential, adding even more value to your role.

Happy to Help

At Meritus, we believe in a collaborative and caring work environment. Interactions are an opportunity to learn, listen and to be there for one another. Therefore, we provide warm welcomes, hospitality-driven closures, and are always Happy to Help.