The Director of Resident Experience is responsible for creating a vibrant, engaging, and purpose-driven community culture that supports the social, emotional, physical, intellectual, spiritual, environmental, and vocational well-being of residents.
This role leads life enrichment, resident engagement, volunteer coordination, and hospitality initiatives while partnering closely with culinary, wellness, nursing, and operations teams to ensure every resident feels connected, valued, and at home.
The Director serves as a key ambassador of the community-driving programs, events, and services that foster belonging, independence, and quality of life across all levels of care.
This is an exempt salaried position, with expected hours to include: days, evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Essential Functions and Duties
Resident Engagement & Programming
- Design and implement a dynamic resident experience program based on the 7 Dimensions of Wellness
- Develop monthly calendars featuring social, educational, cultural, fitness, and purpose-driven activities
- Personalize engagement plans for residents based on interests, abilities, and life history
- Oversee clubs, outings, volunteer opportunities, intergenerational programs, and signature events
- Evaluate participation and satisfaction metrics to continuously improve offerings
Leadership & Team Development
- Recruit, train, and supervise life enrichment and concierge staff
- Lead resident experience meetings and cross-department collaboration
- Manage scheduling, performance coaching, and professional development
- Build a culture of hospitality and service excellence
Resident & Family Relations
- Serve as a primary contact for resident concerns, feedback, and suggestions
- Partner with social services and clinical teams on transitions of care
- Support move-ins, orientations, and new resident onboarding
- Facilitate resident councils and community forums
Operations & Compliance
- Develop and manage department budget and purchasing
- Ensure documentation meets state and regulatory requirements
- Maintain transportation scheduling and safety standards
- Oversee vendor relationships and community partnerships
Marketing & Community Outreach
- Collaborate with sales/marketing on events, tours, and promotions
- Build relationships with local organizations, schools, and faith communities
- Promote the community as a destination for purposeful living
Travel
Occasional travel for company meetings by car and/or plane may be required
Salary
$85,000 to $90,000
General Responsibility as Required for Position
- Responsible for acting in conformance with all facility and departmental policies and procedures including those relating to Human Resources, Code of Ethics and Business Conduct, Health and Safety regulations, Compliance requirements, Patient Rights, Confidentiality, and HIPAA. Responsible for acting in conformance with accrediting agency standards.
- Attends department meetings as required.
- Demonstrates accountability to accept responsibility for personal/professional growth and any required certification/licenses, if applicable.
- Completes mandatory training and competencies annually.
- Bachelor's degree in Recreation Therapy, Social Work, Hospitality, Gerontology, or related field (preferred)
- 3-5 years leadership experience in senior living, hospitality, or wellness programming
- Experience working with older adults across IL/AL/Memory Care environment
- Strong relationship-building and communication skills
- Creativity in program design and event planning
- Budget management and vendor oversight
- Experience with resident engagement software
- Compassionate, mission-driven leadership style
- ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification Required or Must be obtained within 90 days of employment
