(RN) Kidney Transplant Program Manager
The University of California, San Diego
About this position
Position Description
UC San Diego Health is a Magnet designated organization, which is a prestigious recognition that applies to only 10% of all U.S. hospitals. Magnet is the “gold standard” for nursing excellence and is based on strengths in five key areas, which include transformational leadership, structural empowerment, exemplary professional practice, new knowledge, innovation and improvements and empirical outcomes. UC San Diego Health has held its Magnet status since 2011. Under the direction of the Transplant Administrative Directors and in close collaboration with Medical and Surgical Directors, the Organ Transplant Program Manager provides strategic, clinical, and operational leadership for the transplant program, optimizing patient outcomes to drive program growth. This role participates in developing and executing comprehensive strategic plans for program expansion while ensuring full regulatory compliance with UNOS, CMS, HRSA, and other governing bodies. The successful candidate will oversee all aspects of transplant operations from initial patient referral through post-transplant care, managing resources, workflows, interdisciplinary teams, and external partnerships. The Transplant Manager will consult and collaborate with healthcare professionals to optimize patient care coordination, serving as a resource to staff and physicians while ensuring sustainable program growth through effective resource utilization and operational excellence. The ideal candidate will bring proven expertise in healthcare operations management, regulatory compliance, and staff development to foster a collaborative, growth-oriented culture. This position demands strong analytical skills to monitor quality metrics, implement performance improvement plans, and manage financial performance. This position provides operational oversight to UC San Diego Health's Kidney Transplant Program.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited institution. Registered Nurse (RN) license issued by the State of California. Current UCSD ART certification, or BLS and ACLS certifications at time of hire with commitment to get ART within six months of hire date. Seven (7+) or more years of progressive clinical experience, including three (3+) or more years of RN experience within a complex transplant and/or inpatient environment. Four (4+) or more years of formal leadership experience, with demonstrated ability to lead teams, drive accountability, and navigate difficult conversations. Proven leadership capability in healthcare operations, including strategic planning, clinical operations management, quality, and regulatory compliance. Demonstrated experience leading teams through change, fostering a growth mindset, and supporting culture transformation in a fast-paced environment. Strong working knowledge of CMS Conditions of Participation and OPTN/UNOS regulatory requirements. Experience partnering with multidisciplinary stakeholders, including physicians, administrators, and frontline staff. Knowledge of workforce management principles, including performance management and accountability in a unionized or highly regulated environment.
Job Location
La Jolla