Sales Director Spotlight – Mary Jane McGill
We are excited to recognize our dedicated Sales Directors! They ensure our communities thrive by working with residents and families along their senior living journey. In addition to helping someone find the perfect place to call home, a big part of their job is fostering connections to ensure a successful transition for the new resident into the community. Meet a few of our amazing and dedicated Sales Directors!
Sales Director: Mary Jane McGill
Community: Avita of Needham
- What first made you interested in working in Senior Living?
My mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and after the death of my dad, I needed to find the best option for her since she was not engaged when she was living at home. After an unsuccessful stint in the wrong community, I found Avita of Needham. It was brand new and looked to be the perfect fit. I had been home raising my children and was ready to get back into the work force but also needed to have time to see and spend time with my mom. When the Sales Director position opened, I thought it could be a great opportunity as I had extensive experience as a sales professional, I understood the disease process and had personal experience with the struggles of the families with whom I would be interacting. This coupled with the fact that it would allow me to see my mom on a daily basis while at work, could be a great work life balance. I so appreciated the ability to spend time with my mother and help other families going through a similar and difficult time. - How long have you been working in Senior Living and what was your first job in this field?
I have been working in Senior living for about 15 years but at Avita Needham for almost 12. Before working in Sales, I was working in programming at different communities. This allowed me to see different communities and what they were like. - What is your favorite part about working in Senior Living?
I love the relationships that develop between our residents. I love when the families want to be a part of the community and when families come back to visit and stay in touch because they miss being in the community! - What is one thing you wish everyone new about being a Sales Director?
The title Sales Director is so misleading. We are so much more than just a Sales person. I find I am the welcome committee, a confidant, a counselor, an advocate and in many cases I have become good friends with people that I have met, even families who never come to the community but have appreciated the support I offer them. - What is one piece of advice you would share with someone thinking of starting a career in Senior Living?
It is important to approach everyone you meet with a sense of empathy, compassion and understanding. In memory care we meet families and residents at one of the lowest points of their life. They are dealing with heartbreak, a sense of failure, shame and guilt. We need to show everyone that Memory Support Assisted living can be a happy place and can provide a wonderful sense of community. It is so important to be realistic and transparent but still hopeful for a bright future. - What keeps you invested in the field?
I have helped so many of my friends and peers make a difficult decision much easier. They take great solace knowing I am in the community advocating and seeing their loved ones. The happy families and the engaged residents bring me so much joy. Our daily interactions and conversations always put a smile on my face. Our residents have such wonderful histories and talents, and I learn so much from them! - What is your favorite part about your job?
Without a doubt the personal relationships I have formed with the families and our residents! - What is the best part about working at Northbridge?
I like the personal approach we take to support each individual. Northbridge does look holistically at each resident and the mutual goal is to provide a sense of purpose and dignity for all!
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As a New England senior living company, we pride ourselves in being the local choice for families in need of assisted living or memory care. We look to our teams of associates to truly make our communities home for our residents. Whether that’s a helping hand or a moment to listen to a story, our associates are dedicated and compassionate. With 19 communities in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts and New Hampshire, we hope you’ll find your home here too. If you already love what you do, and want to love where you work, apply now! We look forward to meeting you.