Today we’d like to introduce you to Kimberly Smith.
Hi Kimberly, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I am the Executive Director at Savannah Square Retirement Community.
I have dedicated my entire adult career to serving older adults and have worked in the Senior space for over 30 years. I have always had a serving heart since I was very young, and my love language is acts of service for others.
My journey in the industry started when I rode past a construction site that was building a Brighton Gardens by Marriott and I saw a sign that had an opening for many positions- one being an LPN. I immediately called my mother and told her that the Marriott hotel was looking for a nurse and I was going to apply. Little did I know that I was about to embark on a journey into senior living that was change my entire life and put me on a path where I would spend my entire career.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Senior living is absolutely rewarding but I always say that it is HEAVY. I am responsible for so many lives on a daily basis and I do not take that lightly. It is a large responsibility but I always think, if not me… then who?
When I entered senior living, there were no Executive Directors that looked like me. I found myself breaking the color barrier in my role.
As you know, we’re big fans of Savannah Square Retirement Community. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Savannah Square is an amazing senior living community. We have Independent Living and Assisted Living.
The best thing about Savannah Square is the people. I have not compromised on making sure that we hire the right team members to serve our older adults and as a result, we have an amazing culture of team members that are aligned on values and our dedication to the residents.
We refer to our community as a cruise ship on land.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
I lead with Love. You have to! If you want the buy in from the people you serve- the team, the family members and the residents, you have to lead with love. I have team members and leaders that have worked for me in several states because I let every single person under my leadership know that they are valued and appreciated.
