An Executive Director’s role is about more than operations – it’s about people. At Atria Woodbriar, Michael Scarpellini’s calm, compassionate leadership helped raise occupancy to 98%, improve satisfaction and earn him the MassALA Executive Director Excellence Award. His story offers valuable lessons for anyone pursuing a career in senior living leadership.
From managing buildings to leading people: your path to leadership at Atria Senior Living
Ever wonder what it really takes to stand out as a leader in senior living? Do you dream of a career where your impact is seen, your ideas matter and your results are recognized? At Atria Senior Living, we believe leadership is about more than managing – it’s about inspiring people, building culture and improving lives.
That’s exactly what Michael Scarpellini, Executive Director at Atria Woodbriar, has done. In less than two years, his calm, compassionate leadership helped boost occupancy to 98%, improve satisfaction and strengthen staff culture – achievements that earned him the MassALA Executive Director Excellence Award.
Your career worries? We get it. And we have answers.
We know taking the next step in your career can feel uncertain. Many job seekers share the same concerns, but Michael’s story shows how Atria helps leaders grow, succeed and shine:
• Worried your leadership won’t be noticed?
Michael’s improvements in occupancy, satisfaction and culture weren’t just appreciated – they earned statewide recognition. At Atria, your results don’t go unseen.
• Wondering if you’ll have support?
Even award-winning leaders know success isn’t solo. Michael’s example shows how Atria invests in team culture, creating an environment where leaders and staff succeed together.
• Afraid you don’t have the “perfect” resume?
Michael’s story proves it’s not about having every skill on day one – it’s about being present, accountable and open to growth. Atria provides training, mentorship and opportunities to keep building your skills.
• Looking for a place to make real impact?
Michael’s journey shows how the right leadership can change lives – for residents, families and staff. At Atria, leaders don’t just manage buildings; they make lasting impact.
Michael’s recognition underscores a bigger truth: At Atria, leaders don’t just succeed; they’re celebrated.
Traits that make senior living leaders stand out
So what does it take to grow into a role like Executive Director? Michael’s journey offers some answers for anyone eyeing leadership in assisted living or senior care:
- Engaged leadership – Visible and approachable, from chatting with residents to rolling up sleeves with staff.
- Calm, steady presence – Creating reassurance even in stressful moments.
- Culture Builder – Fostering teamwork and mutual respect, strengthening retention and morale.
- Data-driven focus – Tracking the metrics that matter: occupancy, satisfaction and quality.
- Recognition through results – Achievements that stand out to both teams and the broader industry.
Want to see how you could grow your own leadership journey? Explore career opportunities with Atria.
Beyond the story: what this means for your job search
Michael’s recognition isn’t just inspiring – it’s instructive. For job seekers, his journey answers key questions:
• Can I really grow my career here?
Yes. Michael’s story shows how performance and leadership are recognized and rewarded at Atria.
• Does Atria invest in its leaders?
Absolutely. Just as Michael thrived in a supportive culture, Atria provides training, mentorship and growth opportunities to help leaders succeed.
• What’s the company culture like?
Expect a supportive workplace where compassion, accountability and teamwork aren’t just values – they’re everyday practice.
• Do I need decades of experience to lead?
Not at all. What matters most is presence, compassion and the drive to make an impact. The rest can be learned with Atria’s support.
Key lessons for aspiring Executive Directors
- Occupancy and quality go hand in hand. Strong leadership doesn’t just fill rooms – it improves the resident experience.
- Culture matters. Staff engagement and low turnover start with how leaders show up each day.
- Recognition follows results. Awards aren’t just about titles; they celebrate measurable impact.
- Compassion is a skill. In senior living, empathy is as important as financial or operational performance.
FAQs: senior living leadership
Q: What makes a successful Executive Director in senior living?
A: A balance of people skills and performance management – building relationships while delivering results in occupancy, satisfaction and quality.
Q: How can leaders improve staff and resident satisfaction?
A: By being visible, supportive and responsive to feedback.
Q: What metrics matter most in senior living leadership?
A: Occupancy rates, resident and staff satisfaction and quality assurance scores.
Q: How can recognition like the MassALA Excellence Award impact a career?
A: Awards highlight leadership achievements, strengthen professional credibility and open doors for advancement. Learn more from Massachusetts Assisted Living Association (MassALA).
Learn, lead and make an impact
Michael’s story isn’t just a celebration of one leader’s excellence – it’s a roadmap for anyone aspiring to thrive in senior living leadership. By balancing empathy with measurable impact, he’s set a powerful example for job seekers looking to grow their careers in this rewarding field.
Explore career opportunities with Atria and take the first step toward making your own impact in senior living leadership.