CEO In Training (CIT)

Deercreekseniorliving; Tempe (AZ); On-site; USD 67,500 - 82,500; Full time

Job summary

Pinnacle Senior Living, part of The Pennant Group, seeks entrepreneurial leaders for the CEO-in-Training program in Arizona. This full-time initiative prepares you to lead communities in assisted living, independent living, or memory care.

With hands-on experience in operations and business management under expert guidance, you will cultivate a strong team culture and drive results while gaining invaluable operational insights. Competitive salary starting at $75,000 with growth potential.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of leadership experience in any industry.
• Proven success in building and leading high-performing teams.
• Open to relocation based on available opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Engage in immersive, on-the-job training across operational functions.
• Shadow department heads to understand day-to-day community life.
• Lead real-time projects and contribute to community improvements.

Skills

Leadership

Team building

Inspirational communication

Operational knowledge

Education

Bachelor’s degree (MBA, MHA, or related field)

Job description

About the Opportunity

Pinnacle, part of The Pennant Group family, is currently seeking entrepreneurial leaders with proven results in building and leading exceptional teams and has a passion for the senior living industry. Join us in making an impact and shaping the future of senior care!

The CEO-in-Training (CIT) Program is designed to prepare outstanding leaders for an opportunity to run one of our assisted living, independent living, or memory care communities. This salaried, full‑time training program typically lasts 3–6 months, depending on your background and experience. CITs may advance to lead one of our thriving communities or future acquisition, with continued mentorship and operational support from experienced partners. As a CIT, you will gain hands‑on practical experience in operations, clinical care, and business management under the guidance of an experienced Executive Director/CEO. The program offers mentorship, cross‑functional training, and real responsibility in a dynamic environment. You’ll learn to drive results, cultivate a strong team culture, and develop a deep understanding of the unique business models that power Pennant’s success.

Key Responsibilities

• Engage in immersive, on‑the‑job training across operational, care, and administrative functions
• Shadow department heads and front‑line staff to understand the day‑to‑day rhythm of community life
• Take the lead on real‑time projects and contribute to meaningful improvements within your host community
• Study relevant state regulations and best practices in senior living operations
• Align leadership and interpersonal skills with Pinnacle’s core values and mission

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

• 3–5 years of leadership experience in any industry
• Proven success in building and leading high‑performing teams
• Ability to inspire, set vision, and deliver measurable results
• Must obtain any required state licensing during their CIT program (varies by state)
• Open to relocation based on available opportunities

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree (MBA, MHA, or related field a plus)
• Experience in operations, financial management or business development
• Entrepreneurial mindset and a heart for service

Location & Compensation

Location: Onsite in Arizona

Compensation: $75,000+ with opportunity for incentive once transitioned to Executive Director seat.

About Us

Pinnacle Senior Living, a portfolio company of The Pennant Group (NASDAQ: PNTG), is redefining the senior living experience with a commitment to personalized care, vibrant communities, and empowered local leadership. We are guided by core values that shape our culture: Customer Second Accountability Passion for Learning Love One Another Intelligent Risk Taking Celebrate Ownership.

EEO Statement

The Pennant Group, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer committed to ensuring that all conditions and privileges of employment, including recruitment, hiring, evaluation, transfer, promotion, discipline, determination of compensation and/or benefits, and termination of employment, for all job classifications, are based on qualifications and work record. No employment decision is made, nor do we discriminate, on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex/pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, veteran status, or disability.