Meet Will Nance, Executive Director at The Grandview

Overseeing the grand opening of a new retirement community in a major metropolitan area is a big job. But it's one Will Nance has hands-on experience in doing successfully.

Nance, the new executive director at The Grandview, an Erickson Senior Living community opening later this year in Bethesda, Md., comes to the position after serving as executive director for Woodleigh Chase, another Erickson Senior Living community, in Fairfax, Va.

"A high-rise, first-of-its-kind community--for Erickson Senior Living--demands a well-rounded, experienced leader who emulates our mission, vision, and values," says Chris Emmett, executive vice president of community operations at Erickson Senior Living. "Will is a great match for this fantastic opportunity."

Lessons learned

Nance has worked at Erickson Senior Living for 27 years, previously serving as sales director, regional vice president for sales, and associate executive director at different communities. He says that he has gained knowledge in each role that will benefit him at The Grandview.

"Each community is unique, so what worked at one will not always work at another; however, the culture of focusing on residents' well-being is central at every Erickson Senior Living community," he says.

"There are some things I want to do exactly the same at The Grandview, and other things I want to do differently, based on what I learned."

One commonality between Woodleigh Chase and The Grandview he noticed is that many residents hail from the immediate area. "Woodleigh Chase residents wanted to maintain their friends, social circles, places of worship, and the clubs and organizations they were already involved in," he notes. "With a vibrant area like Bethesda, it's no surprise that I'm seeing that at The Grandview as well."

He adds, "I think the success we're having here creates an opportunity for Erickson Senior Living to look at other thriving metropolitan areas nationwide."

Residents' ability to shape their community as it evolves is also something that Nance has witnessed--and admires.

High demand

Sales at The Grandview have been brisk. The first residence building, Potomac Heights, is nearly sold out, and demand for the second one, Woodmont Terrace, is high.

"We've got a great community, an ideal location, and the Erickson Senior Living brand is well-respected and strong," Nance says.

"People in this area know Erickson because of our nearby communities--Riderwood in Silver Spring, Md., Greenspring in Springfield, Va., Ashby Ponds in Ashburn, Va., and Woodleigh Chase. Retirees are aware of the lifestyle and value that Erickson delivers."

Nance is excited to be the executive director of Erickson's first high-rise community at The Grandview.

"I think it creates an opportunity for Erickson to look at other urban areas nationwide because it's a lot easier to find 10 or 20 acres of land to build a high-rise as opposed to finding 100 acres of land," he says.

He adds that the predictability offered by the monthly service package is a draw, as future residents can easily plan their annual budget with no worries about hidden expenses.

Making an impact

When asked what he is most excited about in his new role, Nance points to the ability to build a team of caring, dedicated employees and creating a culture that aligns with Erickson Senior Living's mission.

"I'm excited to watch our departments grow and see everyone work together to provide high-quality services for our residents. I also hope to help staff members achieve their personal career goals," he says.

Even after more than two decades at Erickson Senior Living, Nance says that he is inspired every day by his coworkers.

"I just love the people I work with, and I love what we do. I get to impact people's lives every day," he says. "I enjoy connecting with residents and hearing about their amazing life experiences. In fact, I eat dinner with them three or four times a month so I can listen and make sure that we are delivering the vibrant lifestyle they deserve. It's a lot of fun, and I really enjoy it!"

To learn more about senior living at this vibrant community, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and so much more.

By Gregory J. Alexander