Director, Strategic Initiatives and Project Management

Mather is a pioneer in the senior living/senior services sector, known for our innovative approaches and commitment to service excellence. We provide extraordinary experiences for our residents, family members, and the broader community. We are currently seeking an experienced and dynamic Director of Strategic Initiatives and Project Management to join our team and support our mission of delivering high-quality, consistent, and innovative services.

The Director of Strategic Initiatives and Project Management will play a crucial role in leading projects aimed at defining and operationalizing Mather’s Brand and Experiences. The Director will work to organize a framework and materials to support service excellence standards, signature programs, and an Experience Playbook. This role will require a strategic thinker with a customer service lens, operational experience, and a strong background in change management. The Director will work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure that projects are executed successfully and align with Mather’s strategic goals further supporting resident, customer, and team member experiences. Collaboration will be essential to bring Mather’s brand promise to life and make it real for team members, residents, family members, and external partners.

This role will also support the President’s Office on Board-related strategic initiatives and projects.

 This role is full-time, salaried, and hybrid.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Project Leadership: Lead the planning, execution, and delivery of projects that support the implementation of Operationalizing Mather’s brand and experiences. Ensure projects are completed on time and to specifications.
• Operational Standards: Establish and maintain operational standards to ensure consistent and high-quality service delivery across all areas. Work to establish and operationalize consistent implementation of policies and procedures.
• Strategic Initiatives: Support the President’s Office for Board-related projects and initiatives.
• Cross-function Collaboration: Work with teams to ensure project objectives are met within scope and time, fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.
• Customer Service Focus: Develop and implement strategies that enhance customer engagement and satisfaction, and that ensure customer expectations and preferences are met.
• Innovation: Identify and implement innovative solutions to enhance operational efficiency and customer experience.

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS:

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Project Management, or a related field. PMP certification is a plus.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of leadership experience in project management, with a focus on service excellence and customer service.
• Experience working with and preparing presentations for Boards a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to work with and lead cross-functional teams.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in project management software and tools.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
• Experience and ability to document and articulate brand standards using hospitality language.
• Solid understanding of customer service principles and best practices in the hospitality industry or with luxury brands.
• Some travel to Mather communities and in support of Board activities.

Skills and Competencies:

• Exceptional project management skills with a keen eye for detail.
• Strong understanding of customer service principles and best practices.
• Ability to lead, motivate, and manage project teams.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to excel in a fast-paced environment, with a proactive and adaptable mindset.
• Strong stakeholder management and negotiation skills.
• High level of initiative and self-motivation.

Benefits

Mather offers a competitive benefits package.*

Team members are eligible for:

• A generous paid time off (PTO) program including vacation days/personal days, sick days, and holidays. This is an “earn-as-you-go” plan that rolls over year to year, offering long- and short-term flexibility.
• A 401(k) program with per pay-period employer match and annual employer contribution (available to those age 21 or better)
• Convenient, subsidized parking (or public transportation for certain locations)
• Wellness Spending Account: up to $300 available annually for Wellness related expenses such as gym memberships, financial planning, etc. 

Benefits-eligible team members can take advantage of:

• Medical, dental, and vision plans
• Paid Parental Leave
• Adoption Assistance Reimbursement
• Tuition reimbursement for continuing education
• Extended illness benefits
• Employee wellness programs
• Short- and long-term disability insurance
• Life insurance - free to all team members 

*Benefits are subject to change without notice. Benefits details dependent on employment status.

About Mather

Based in Evanston, Illinois, Mather is a unique, non-denominational, not-for-profit organization founded in 1941. Dedicated to developing and implementing Ways to Age Well^SM, we create programs, places, and residences for today’s young-at-heart older adults. Mather has received a national certification as a Great Place to Work^®, and has been selected as a Nation’s Best and Brightest in Wellness Award recipient four years in a row.

Mather is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer committed to an inclusive workforce. Candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.