Executive Director

WesleyLife; Atlantic, Northern (IA, KY); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

WesleyLife in Iowa is seeking an Executive Director to lead the assigned health and well-being network, translating strategic goals into actionable plans that promote independence, health, and financial sustainability.

The role emphasizes strategic leadership, team development, and community partnerships, with a focus on resident well-being and compliant operations across programs. Strong collaboration with the People & Culture team and external partners is essential.

Qualifications

• 4-year degree in Healthcare Administration, Business, or a related field preferred.
• Currently licensed by the state of Iowa as a Nursing Home Administrator.
• At least five years of work experience managing a medium-to-large continuing care retirement community setting is required.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic and operational plans for the assigned location.
• Lead and develop the leadership team; ensure effective communication.
• Recruit, develop, and retain high-performing staff with focus on learning and well-being.
• Coordinate services and expand offerings through partnerships.
• Engage residents and families with a warm, person-centered culture.
• Represent WesleyLife in the community and at professional events.
• Ensure compliance with policies, safety, and quality standards.
• Develop and manage budgets, census goals, and payor mix.
• Coach and develop team; monitor productivity and quality.
• Complete required trainings and manage emergencies; regular attendance.

Education

4-year degree in Healthcare Administration, Business, or related field

Licensed by the state of Iowa as Nursing Home Administrator

5+ years of management in a medium-to-large continuing care retirement community

Job description

The Executive Director holds the primary leadership role for an assigned geographic health and well-being network and participates in developing strategies to ensure the organization meets its vision to become the most dynamic and inclusive champion to revolutionize the experience of aging. The Executive Director translates the broader strategies into network goals and operational plans to enable the success of the assigned network.

Essential Job Functions & Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership:
  Develop and execute strategic and operational plans for the assigned location in alignment with WesleyLife’s mission, vision, and goals. Focus on innovative, person-centered services that promote independence, health, well-being, and financial sustainability.
• Team Leadership & Development:
  Model strong, positive leadership. Set clear goals aligned with organizational strategy, hold leaders accountable for outcomes, and celebrate achievements. Lead regular leadership meetings, ensure effective communication, and delegate responsibilities to maintain efficient operations.
• Talent Management:
  Partner with the Director of People & Culture to recruit, develop, and retain high-performing team members. Foster a supportive environment focused on learning, engagement, and well-being. Provide consistent feedback, development opportunities, and recognition while holding team members accountable for performance.
• Service Coordination & Quality:
  Collaborate with network leaders to ensure residents receive the right services at the right time. Lead efforts to coordinate and expand service offerings through internal collaboration and community partnerships.
• Resident & Family Engagement:
  Be visible and responsive to residents, clients, and families. Promote a warm, person-centered culture that respects individual preferences, encourages open communication, and proactively addresses concerns.
• Community Relations:
  Represent WesleyLife in the community and at professional events. Build relationships and partnerships that support service growth and community integration.
• Operations & Compliance:
  Implement and uphold WesleyLife policies, procedures, and quality standards. Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, safety, and risk management programs.
• Financial Stewardship:
  Develop and manage budgets, census goals, and payor mix to meet financial objectives. Monitor labor costs, manage expenses, and ensure responsible resource utilization.
• Performance Management:
  Coach and develop team members, monitor productivity and quality, and take corrective action as needed. Maintain open communication to support career growth and retention.
• Additional Responsibilities:
  Ensure timely completion of required trainings. Manage emergencies professionally. Perform other duties as assigned. Regular attendance is required.

Education & Experience

• 4-year degree in Healthcare Administration, Business, or a related field preferred
• Currently licensed by the state of Iowa as a Nursing Home Administrator.
• At least five years of work experience managing a medium-to-large continuing care retirement community setting is required.

Why Choose WesleyLife?

At WesleyLife, you're not just starting a job — you're joining a purpose-driven community where your well-being, growth, and impact truly matter. With nearly 80 years of excellence in serving older adults, we empower our team members to thrive while making meaningful connections and changing lives every day.
WesleyLife is proud to be recognized as one of Senior Care’s Best Places to Work by WeCare Connect! We’re committed to a workplace where every team member is seen, heard, and appreciated.

WesleyLife is revolutionizing the experience of aging by challenging the stigma that aging means decline and promoting the idea that life transitions are opportunities for growth and purpose. Come be a part of the revolution!

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.