Case Studies
Representative senior living leadership searches and the challenges behind them.
CASE STUDY
VP of Operations Search for a Historic CCRC
Hollenbeck Palms retained LM Hurley & Associates to conduct a Vice President of Operations search during the height of the COVID-era leadership market, following a key internal succession move.
The ChallengeHollenbeck Palms needed a Vice President of Operations for one of California’s most historic not-for-profit Continuing Care Retirement Communities.
The search followed an important internal leadership transition. The former Vice President had been promoted to President/CEO, creating the need for a senior operating leader who could support the organization’s next chapter while respecting its long history, mission, and culture. The assignment was conducted during the height of the COVID-era leadership market, when senior living operators were under extraordinary pressure and qualified executives were difficult to reach, recruit, and move. This search required persistence, credibility, and a practical understanding of senior living operations during one of the most difficult recruiting markets the industry has faced.The SearchLM Hurley & Associates worked closely with Hollenbeck Palms’ President/CEO and the board’s search committee leader to define the leadership profile and search strategy. Because meetings were conducted during the COVID period, much of the process took place by videoconference and phone. The goal was to identify a senior living executive with CCRC experience, strong operating judgment, board exposure, and the ability to lead with warmth, discipline, and cultural sensitivity. The search focused on leaders who could understand the complexity of a historic not-for-profit CCRC while bringing the executive presence, operational experience, and interpersonal skills needed to earn trust with residents, staff, leadership, and the board. The ResultLM Hurley & Associates contacted and screened 172 prospects, interviewed 24 candidates, and also evaluated one internal candidate. After assessment, LMH presented the three strongest candidates to the organization. Hollenbeck Palms interviewed all three finalists and selected a candidate who exceeded the executive search specifications while making a strong cultural connection with the board. An offer was extended and accepted within 180 days of engagement. The selected Vice President joined the organization with more than 15 years of experience in senior living, health, and human services management, including experience with CCRCs and board-facing leadership. |
SEARCH SNAPSHOT CLIENT Hollenbeck Palms Search Model Retained Executive Search ROLE Vice President of Operations TIMELINE Offer accepted within 180 days of engagement (COVID era) SEARCH ACTIVITY 172 prospects contacted and screened; 24 candidates interviewed; one internal candidate evaluated FINALISTS Three finalists presented; all three interviewed by the client 
What Made It Complex
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Why This Search Mattered
This search helped Hollenbeck Palms maintain leadership continuity during a difficult period for senior living organizations.
By identifying and recruiting a Vice President of Operations with the right blend of experience, judgment, and cultural fit, LM Hurley helped the organization strengthen its operating leadership during a challenging market and an important leadership transition.
By identifying and recruiting a Vice President of Operations with the right blend of experience, judgment, and cultural fit, LM Hurley helped the organization strengthen its operating leadership during a challenging market and an important leadership transition.
