The Opportunity
This is a Director-level leadership role with real operational scope — 12 ORs, 7 surgical departments, and approximately 120 staff members at a 282-bed acute care facility in northwest Florida. You'll have direct oversight of OR proper, PACU, same-day surgery, central sterile supply, an infusion center, and GI services. The position reports directly to the COO, which means your decisions carry institutional weight and your results are visible at the highest level of the organization. One permanent opening is available.
The schedule is primarily Monday through Friday, with 24/7 leadership accountability for the surgical departments. This is a permanent placement — not a contract, not a temp-to-hire. If you're building toward the next chapter of a long-term clinical leadership career, the permanency and breadth of this role are worth a serious look.
Compensation is competitive based on experience, with a 17.5% annual bonus target paid every March. The benefits package includes comprehensive medical coverage with many services at no cost or low copay, dental and vision options, a 401(k) with 100% match on 3% to 9% of pay based on tenure, an Employee Stock Purchase Plan, education assistance, and paid time off. Relocation assistance is available on a case-by-case basis.
Candidates must hold an active RN license and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. A Master of Science in Nursing is preferred. A minimum of two years of recent acute care Director of Surgical Services experience is required. Candidates with multi-department surgical leadership backgrounds and demonstrated competency in surgical throughput, staffing, and quality outcomes are the strongest fit for this role.
Ready to make a move? Apply now or reach out directly to schedule a confidential conversation. We'll get you the full details quickly.
What You'll Own
- Lead 12 ORs, 7 surgical departments, and approximately 120 staff at a 282-bed acute care facility
- Direct oversight of OR proper, PACU, same-day surgery, central sterile supply, an infusion center, and GI services
- Report directly to the COO with institutional-level visibility and decision authority
- 24/7 leadership accountability for the surgical departments with a primarily Monday–Friday schedule and rotating weekends
- Drive surgical throughput, staffing models, and quality outcomes across the perioperative service line
What You'll Need
- Active RN license
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing required
- Master of Science in Nursing preferred
- Minimum of two years of recent acute care Director of Surgical Services experience
- Multi-department surgical leadership background
- Demonstrated competency in surgical throughput, staffing, and quality outcomes
The Package
Why Panama City?
Panama City sits on Florida's Emerald Coast, where the Gulf of Mexico delivers some of the most consistently clear water and white-sand beaches on the continent. St. Andrews State Park is within minutes, offering kayaking, fishing, and trails that locals use year-round. The climate runs mild through winter and warm through summer, which means outdoor recreation is not a seasonal option — it's a lifestyle. Cost of living runs below the national average, and Florida carries no state income tax, so your earning power goes measurably further here than in most comparable markets. The city's size keeps commutes short without sacrificing the amenities that matter to working families.
Panama City is also a genuine family community. The area's public school options have expanded significantly in recent years, with magnet and STEM programs drawing families who want strong educational infrastructure without relocating to a major metro. Cultural amenities — local dining, arts, live music — have grown alongside the region's population. Bay County is large enough to offer full-service healthcare, retail, and airport access with direct flights to several major hubs, but small enough that you're never far from the water, the trails, or the neighborhood that feels like home. People often come to visit and find they never want to leave.
Chris Monroe
Pick a time that is convenient to you from my calendar
Your dedicated surgical nurse recruiter. Chris personally reviews every application and will help you find your dream role — confidentially and at no cost to you.
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Healthcare-only placement firm
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Simple 4-Step Process
How Chris Gets You Hired
No black holes. No ATS portals. No waiting weeks for a response. Here's exactly what happens when you apply.
Submit Your Info
Fill out the quick application or upload your resume. It takes less than 2 minutes — no lengthy forms, no portal logins.
Book a Strategy Call
Pick a time on the calendar for a confidential 15-minute call. We'll review your background, answer questions, and explore roles that fit your goals.
Get Interviewed & Hired
We present your background directly to hiring directors — bypassing HR gatekeepers. Many candidates receive interview requests within 72 hours.
Chris Stays With You
From first call to your first day, Chris is in your corner — getting you timely answers, prepping you for interviews, and keeping the process moving so nothing stalls.
Ready to Make Your Move?
DM us directly or book a confidential 5-minute call. Skip the ATS portal — let's have a real conversation.
