CEO-In-Training, Executive Director

Pennant; Palm Desert (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Cornerstone, part of The Pennant Group family, seeks entrepreneurial leaders for a CEO-in-Training program in Palm Desert, CA. This salaried, full-time training lasts 3–6 months, with mentorship and cross-functional training across home health, hospice, and home care.

You will gain hands-on experience in operations, clinical care, and business management under senior leadership, with opportunities to advance to an Executive Director role after training.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in healthcare required; MBA/MHA preferred.
• 2+ years of leadership experience in healthcare.
• Proven ability to build and lead teams; ability to create a vision and drive results.

Responsibilities

• Participate in on-the-job training across all operational roles.
• Shadow clinical and administrative teams to understand the full scope of the business.
• Lead projects and deliver real-time solutions within the host company.
• Engage in self-study on industry regulations and best practices.
• Align leadership skills with Cornerstone’s core values.

Skills

Leadership

Healthcare knowledge

Strategic vision

Education

Bachelor’s degree in healthcare

Job description

*This opportunity will require this candidate to be on-site at our Palm Desert, CA location.

Cornerstone, part of The Pennant Group family, is currently seeking entrepreneurial leaders with proven results in building and leading exceptional teams—and a passion for the home health, hospice and home care industry. Join us in making an impact and shaping the future of post-acute care!

About the Opportunity:

The CEO-in-Training (CIT) Program is designed to prepare outstanding leaders for the opportunity to lead one of our home health or hospice agencies. This salaried, full‑time training program typically lasts 3–6 months, depending on your background and experience. CITs may advance to oversee one of our thriving agencies or a future acquisition, with continued mentorship and operational support from experienced Pennant 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:

• Participate in on-the-job training across all operational roles
• Shadow clinical and administrative teams to understand the full scope of the business
• Lead projects and contribute to real‑time solutions within your host company
• Engage in self‑study on industry regulations and operational best practices
• Align leadership skills while embodying Cornerstone’s core values

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in healthcare (MBA/MHA preferred)
• 2+ years of proven leadership experience in healthcare
• Strong track record of building and leading successful teams
• Ability to create a vision and drive results
• Must obtain any required state licensing during their CIT program (varies by state)
• Open to relocation based on available opportunities

Preferred Qualifications:

• Entrepreneurial mindset with a passion for growth
• Experience in business development, marketing, and financial management
• Proven ability to drive culture and lead with passion

Compensation:

$100K+ during the 12-18 week training period. Upon successful completion of the CIT role and advancement to an Executive Director role, there is opportunity for base salary increase and incentive plan.

About Us:

Cornerstone, an affiliate of The Pennant Group (NASDAQ: PNTG), is committed to delivering compassionate, personalized care to patients and families in the comfort of their own homes. As part of the Pennant family—a growing national network with over 180 affiliated locations across 14 states spanning home health, hospice, and senior living—we operate with the independence and flexibility that allow our local leaders to truly make a difference. Pennant Services provides robust clinical, legal, accounting, IT and HR support, enabling our teams to focus on delivering exceptional service and care.

We are guided by the core values that shape Pennant’s unique culture:

• Customer Second
• Accountability
• Passion for Learning
• Love One Another
• Celebrate
• Ownership

We believe in empowering our people, fostering excellence, and creating an environment where personal and professional growth thrives. Our culture makes Pennant a truly unique place to work.

Learn More and Connect with Us:

Careers: https://pennantgroup.com/careers/

Become a CEO: https://pennantgroup.com/ceo/