Seniors Housing

CHICAGO — Operators in the senior living space universally agree that the executive director holds the single most important position at their communities and that the job is a daily grind. These frontline administrators are not only tasked with providing the best care possible for residents, but they must also demonstrate strong financial acumen. They are frequently thrust into the role of crisis manager, all the while they are expected to be strategic thinkers. Rather than simply give lip service to the idea that the executive director is an invaluable part of the overall operation, Charter Senior Living is putting its money where its mouth is. The operator of 14 senior living communities in nine states is exploring the possibility of giving executive directors an ownership stake in its communities. “I know that’s been talked about for years, but we are actually in a position [to provide that incentive] on top of a very competitive financial package,” said Keven Bennema, president and CEO of Charter Senior Living, which offers independent living, assisted living and memory care across its properties concentrated in the Midwest and Southeast. It’s important for department heads to feel a sense of ownership as well, added Bennema, …