Chief Nursing Officer (CNO)

Overview
An integrated regional healthcare system in the Pacific Northwest is seeking an experienced and visionary Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) to join its executive leadership team. The CNO is responsible for providing strategic and operational oversight for all direct patient care service departments across inpatient, outpatient, and specialty settings.

This role ensures the highest standards of clinical quality, patient safety, and operational excellence, while fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability among nursing and clinical teams. The CNO plays a vital role in shaping the organization’s patient care philosophy and advancing its mission to deliver exceptional community-based healthcare.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide executive leadership for all nursing and patient care departments within the health system.

• Lead the development, implementation, and evaluation of nursing standards, policies, and practices.

• Collaborate with senior leaders and medical staff to ensure alignment with organizational strategy, quality goals, and fiscal responsibility.

• Ensure 24-hour accountability for all patient care operations through effective nursing management and performance oversight.

• Promote a professional practice environment that supports evidence-based care, clinical excellence, and continuous improvement.

• Develop and mentor nursing leadership teams to enhance performance, engagement, and retention.

• Oversee resource allocation, staffing models, and budgeting for patient care services.

• Represent nursing interests in system-wide initiatives, partnerships, and community relations.

Qualifications

• Education:

  • Required: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited program.

  • Preferred: Master’s degree in Nursing, Healthcare Administration, or related field.

• Licensure:

  • Active and unrestricted Registered Nurse (RN) license in Washington State or a compact state RN license (must maintain in good standing).

  • Current CPR certification required.

• Experience:

  • Minimum of five years of recent nursing management experience, including at least three years in an acute care setting.

  • Prior executive or senior leadership experience in a healthcare organization strongly preferred.

• Proven ability to lead through influence, drive performance, and foster a culture of accountability and excellence.

Compensation & Benefits

• Annual Salary Range: $182,000 – $231,000 (based on experience).

• Employment Type: Full-time, exempt (1.0 FTE / 40 hours per week).

• Benefits: Comprehensive package including medical, dental, and vision coverage, retirement plan, wellness initiatives, and continuing education support.

Why This Area Is a Great Place to Live and Work
The Pacific Northwest region offers an exceptional quality of life, with a beautiful balance of nature, culture, and community. Residents enjoy year-round outdoor recreation, outstanding schools, and a vibrant local arts and dining scene. The area combines the natural beauty of mountains, rivers, and forests with the friendliness and accessibility of small-town living.