Nurse Unit Manager-Operating Theatres

Job Description:

• Lead a high-performing team in a major perioperative service, with the opportunity to shape service delivery, clinical culture, and staff capability across 11 theatres.
• Genuine leadership autonomy and support — work closely with an engaged Perioperative Services Manager who values innovation, collaboration, and empowered decision-making.
• Significant investment in theatre upgrades, technology and surgical innovation, ensuring you lead a department with strong resources, modern facilities, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

St Vincent’s Private Hospital Melbourne – East Melbourne


Join an organisation where we Serve Something Greater; See Something Greater; and Strive for Something Greater.

About the Role

An exciting leadership opportunity is now available for a Nurse Unit Manager to lead our Operating Theatres at our East Melbourne campus.
Our perioperative service consists of 11 operating theatres delivering a wide range of surgical specialties. We are seeking a dynamic and collaborative leader who brings passion, engagement, and a commitment to exceptional patient-centred care.


This is a full-time position reporting directly to the Perioperative Services Manager.

Key Responsibilities

In this role, you will:

• Provide visible and effective clinical and operational leadership across the theatre suite
• Foster a supportive and inclusive culture, promoting mentorship, staff development, and high engagement
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clinicians, nursing teams, and key stakeholders
• Contribute to budget planning, resource allocation, and service optimisation
• Demonstrate sound knowledge of workforce and labour management
• Prioritise and coordinate workflow to ensure the safe, efficient delivery of patient care
• Champion quality improvement initiatives and evidence-based practice

About You

You will be a values-driven nursing leader with:

• Current AHPRA registration as a Registered Nurse
• Demonstrated leadership capability in a perioperative or acute care setting
• Strong clinical decision-making and critical-thinking skills
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills
• A commitment to patient safety, quality outcomes, and service excellence
• The ability to lead teams through periods of growth, change, and innovation

Why Work for SVPHM?

At St Vincent’s Private Hospital Melbourne, you will be part of a high-performing team built on trust, respect, and genuine collaboration. We invest in our people and provide opportunities for professional growth in a supportive learning environment.


You will also enjoy:

• Being part of the St Vincent’s Health Australia Group, a truly values-based organisation with hospitals across VIC, NSW and QLD
• Salary packaging to increase your take-home pay
• Fitness Passport membership access
• Access to our Give4Good workplace giving program
• Options to purchase additional leave for greater work–life balance
• Staff discounts on hospital admissions across all SVHA Private Hospitals

About St Vincent’s Private Hospital Melbourne

St Vincent’s Private Hospital Melbourne is a not-for-profit Catholic private hospital providing exceptional medical, surgical, and therapeutic services.
Our four campuses—Fitzroy, East Melbourne, Kew and Werribee—are supported by a dedicated team focused on delivering care with compassion, dignity, and excellence.

How to Apply

If this sounds like your next career move, click APPLY now.

Applications must include:

• Cover Letter
• Resume

Our Commitment to Diversity & Safety

We are committed to equal employment opportunity, ethical practices, cultural diversity and a smoke-free workplace.

St Vincent’s Health Australia welcomes applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

For more information, please visit our Reconciliation page or contact: indigenouscareers@svha.org.au


This role requires:

• Criminal record and/or child protection checks
• Compliance with the SVHA Staff Health Screening Immunisation Policy, including mandatory vaccinations (e.g., influenza)

Interested and Want to Know More?

For a confidential discussion about this role, please contact: Lisa Barker – Perioperative Services Manager on 03- 9928 6005