Director, Organ Referral Optimization

Donor Network of Arizona’s mission is to make the most of life through the gift of organ and tissue donation. We challenge ourselves and others every day to realize Arizona's potential to save and improve lives. Every employee at Donor Network of Arizona is responsible for embracing the organizational culture by upholding the Donor Network of Arizona’s core values of Positive Energy, Passion, and Eagerness.

About the Director, Organ Referral Optimization

Donor Network of Arizona (DNA) is seeking a strategic and mission-driven leader to oversee our Organ Referral Optimization department. In this vital role, you will manage the 24/7 operations that handle incoming organ donor referrals by ensuring timely, accurate, and compassionate coordination that supports successful donation outcomes.

You’ll lead a specialized team responsible for both referral intake and onsite response, optimizing systems and workflows to ensure no opportunity for donation is missed. Your leadership will shape how DNA responds in real time to every referral, by phone and in person, making a direct impact on the lives we save.

Strategic Leadership

Lead and develop the vision, structure, and strategy of the Organ Referral Optimization department. Design systems and processes to support performance at Tier 1 levels and beyond. Oversee the development of metrics, quality monitoring, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Operational Excellence

Ensure appropriate 24/7 staffing and scheduling to maintain optimal coverage and high-quality service. Lead budget planning and manage departmental resources responsibly. Maximize utilization of EMR, phone, and referral technology to improve workflow efficiency and service delivery.

Collaboration & Communication

Partner with DNA departments (Organ Donor Optimization, Donor Family & Advocate Services, and Hospital Engagement & Strategy) to ensure smooth referral-to-donation processes. Build and maintain strong relationships with hospital partners to foster seamless donation opportunities. Ensure referral monitoring includes clinical assessments, hospital care plans, and family communication status.

Clinical Oversight

Guide staff in accurate donor suitability evaluations, collaborating with Organ Donor Optimization as needed. Reduce missed donation opportunities by identifying and resolving gaps in referral and hospital processes. Ensure compliance with regulatory and accrediting agency standards.

People Leadership

Lead, coach, and support department leadership and staff. Champion DNA’s core values and positive culture through consistent feedback, recognition, and accountability. Ensure proper onboarding, ongoing training, and competency development through collaboration with department educators. Manage performance evaluations, goal setting, and corrective actions when necessary.

Technology & Data Management

Collaborate with IT & Innovation and Business Intelligence to ensure systems meet operational needs and support accurate data collection and analysis. Monitor department performance data to drive improvements and decision-making.

Requirements

Minimum Education:

Bachelor’s Degree

Minimum Experience:

5 years of leadership experience at the Manager level or above
3 years of experience in an Organ Procurement Organization (OPO)
Excellent human relations and oral/written communication skills

Preferred Education: Master’s Degree in Business Management/Administration, Healthcare Management, Nursing, Leadership, or related field. Certified Procurement Transplant Coordinator (CPTC) Certification

Preferred Experience: 5 years of OPO management experience. 3 years of experience in call center, command center, and/or similar operations. Experience with call center software and technology

We Offer

• Competitive Salary
• Annual organizational incentive program
• Medical, dental & vision insurance
• Paid life and long-term disability insurance
• Voluntary life insurance options
• 403(b) employer match and profit sharing
• Tuition assistance program
• Employee wellness & assistance programs
• Inclusive culture- consistently recognized as a top workplace in Arizona
• Tobacco-free, drug-free workplace

Donor Network of Arizona is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected characteristics as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.  All employment is based on qualifications, merit and business need. If you require a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or interview process, please contact our team at [email protected]. We are committed to maintaining a drug-free workplace.