Regional Life Enrichment Manager
Career GuideKey Responsibilities
- Set a regional program strategy for resident engagement and wellbeing
- Standardize program calendars and quality expectations across communities
- Coach and develop Life Enrichment Directors and Activity staff
- Support memory care engagement programming and daily routines
- Partner with Executive Directors and clinical leaders to align programming with resident needs
- Track participation and satisfaction results and turn insights into improvements
- Ensure programs meet state regulations and company policies
- Manage regional budgets, supplies, and vendor relationships
- Support hiring, onboarding, and performance management for life enrichment teams
- Create partnerships with local organizations for volunteers, performers, and outreach
- Lead training on inclusive programming and resident choice
- Support community openings, turnarounds, and special projects as assigned
Top Skills for Success
Program Development
Team Coaching
Staff Training
Quality Assurance
Budget Management
Vendor Management
Stakeholder Management
Change Management
Recruiting
Performance Management
Resident Engagement Planning
Event Planning
Dementia Care Knowledge
Senior Living Regulations
Risk Management
Data Tracking
Communication
Conflict Resolution
Cultural Competence
Community Partnerships
Career Progression
Can Lead To
Regional Life Enrichment Manager
Regional Resident Experience Manager
Regional Memory Care Program Manager
Regional Operations Manager
Transition Opportunities
Director of Resident Experience
Director of Operations
Regional Director of Operations
Senior Living Program Director
Corporate Training Manager
Quality Improvement Manager
Common Skill Gaps
Often Missing Skills
Program MeasurementBudget ForecastingRegulatory ReadinessDementia Communication TechniquesStaff SchedulingVendor NegotiationRegional Travel PlanningExecutive ReportingLearning Program DesignCrisis Response Planning
Development SuggestionsBuild a simple measurement system that ties programming to participation, resident feedback, and retention. Strengthen budgeting by practicing monthly forecasting and variance reviews. Stay current on state requirements and document readiness with checklists and audits. Deepen memory care capability through structured training and mentoring. Improve executive reporting by using clear weekly updates focused on risks, wins, and next actions.
Salary & Demand
Median Salary Range
Entry Level60000 to 75000 USD
Mid Level75000 to 95000 USD
Senior Level95000 to 120000 USD
Growth Trend
Steady demand driven by an aging population and increased focus on resident experience. Hiring levels vary by region, company growth, and community occupancy.Companies Hiring
Major Employers
Brookdale Senior LivingSunrise Senior LivingAtria Senior LivingErickson Senior LivingHoliday by AtriaFive Star Senior LivingSenior LifestyleEnlivantLife Care ServicesGenesis HealthCareCapital Senior LivingCommonwealth Senior Living
Industry Sectors
Assisted LivingMemory CareIndependent LivingSkilled NursingContinuing Care Retirement CommunitiesSenior Living Management Companies
Recommended Next Steps
1
Review job postings in your target region and list the top 10 recurring requirements2
Create a one page program scorecard template for participation, satisfaction, and staffing coverage3
Assemble two program examples that show measurable improvement across multiple communities4
Complete a recognized dementia care training course and document how you apply it in programming5
Practice building a quarterly budget with assumptions for staffing, supplies, and events6
Develop a standard onboarding plan for Life Enrichment Directors with training milestones7
Build a vendor and community partner list by market with backup options for each community8
Prepare interview stories using clear examples of coaching, compliance readiness, and turnaround support