Administrator Residency Program 

Train to Become a Nursing Home Administrator with Us!

Develop the Vision to Lead Operations, Teams, and Outcomes

 Behind every high performing skilled nursing community is a strong Administrator who knows how to balance people, operations, compliance, and quality care.

The Administrator Residency Program is designed for emerging leaders who want to build the skills needed to successfully oversee the daily operations of a skilled nursing facility.

This immersive training experience provides exposure to every aspect of facility leadership, from regulatory compliance and financial performance to team development and resident satisfaction. Through hands on learning and mentorship from experienced leaders, participants gain practical insight into what it takes to lead in today’s healthcare environment.

Whether you are beginning your leadership journey or preparing for your next major career move, the AIT Program offers a structured path toward executive leadership.

If you are driven by challenge, motivated by growth, and committed to making a meaningful impact, this program can help you turn potential into leadership.

Your future in healthcare leadership starts here.

Built In Support for Future Leaders

Personalized mentorship and real-world leadership experience

A 2-week New Administrator Bootcamp and monthly virtual training sessions

Guidance from experienced administrators and leadership mentors

Support through licensure preparation and testing

Administrator Residency Program Highlights

Eligibility

The program is open to both internal and external applicants. Internal applicants must meet specific criteria, such as not holding another position while actively participating in the program (varies by state).

Duration

The program lasts between 6-12 months, depending on state requirements. Participants must commit to completing up to 2080 hours of training

Commitment

Participants must commit to staying with Saber for two years post-program completion at their current community or a Saber community within 50 miles from their home.

Training

The program includes DON/ADMIN orientation, monthly virtual training sessions, and completion of the AHCA: Nursing Home Administration: Beyond the Essentials course. Participants will also attend required meetings and trainings.

Compensation

Participants will be paid at a competitive rate, with reimbursement for state and national licensure test fees upon successful completion. Internal applicants who continue to hold their current position will retain their current pay rate.

Administrator Residency Program Benefits

Career Advancement

The program provides opportunities to become an Administrator, Assistant Administrator, BOM, HR, or other positions aligned with the participant's skills and competency.

Professional Development

Participants will gain hands-on experience and knowledge required for LNHA roles, including understanding state-specific requirements and passing the NAB and state exams.

Support

Participants will receive regular touch base calls and training sessions with the Director of Leadership Development, attend DON/ADMIN orientation, and complete required courses. Both internal and external participants will be supported throughout the program to ensure successful completion.

Meet Our Experienced Team

Kim Chuma

Kim Chuma

Director of Leadership Development

 

Kim Chuma brings nearly two decades of experience in long-term care, including eight years with Saber. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Ohio University, where she double-majored in Long Term Care Administration and Health Services Administration. Kim’s passion for senior care began early – she started her career as a dietary aide in a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) in high school.

After graduating from college, Kim joined Saber as a Social Services Designee and later advanced into the role of Admissions Director. In 2014, she became a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA) and served as an administrator for 11 years. In April 2025, she transitioned into her current role as Director of Leadership Development.

In this position, Kim supports and oversees the Administrator Residency (AR) Program, helping ensure it provides a structured and meaningful pathway for future leaders in long-term care. The program reflects Saber’s commitment to investing not only in competitive compensation for ARs but also in their education, professional growth, and long-term success. Through hands-on experience, mentorship, and targeted development, ARs build the confidence and competencies needed to excel as administrators. For Kim, true success is measured beyond program completion – it’s seeing ARs successfully transition into administrator roles within the organization.

Kim’s favorite aspect of long-term care is the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with staff, residents, and their families while making a positive impact each day. She also values the ever-evolving nature of healthcare, which keeps the work challenging, dynamic, and rewarding. Above all, Kim is driven by the people-centered mission of healthcare – connecting with others and making a difference where it matters most.

Graduate Spotlight

Jessica Carter successfully completed her Administrator Residency Program at Shenandoah officially earning her license as a Nursing Home Administrator! Jessica’s dedication, leadership, and passion for serving others have been evident throughout her journey. We are incredibly proud of this accomplishment and thrilled to see her step into this next chapter with our organization. We can’t wait to see the impact she will continue to make in the lives of our residents, families, and team members.

Chelsea completed her Administrator Residency program in 2024 and has already stepped into the role of Administrator at one of our thriving communities. Her dedication and drive are inspiring, and we’re proud to have her leading the way!

Madison completed her Administrator Residency under the preceptorship of Kimberly Chuma at The Oaks of Brecksville and now proudly serves as the Administrator at Homestead II.We are incredibly proud of Madison for her dedication, perseverance, and passion for long-term care.

Administrator Bootcamp

We believe in cultivating the next generation of healthcare leaders. That’s why we’ve developed the Nursing Home Administrator Bootcamp which is a dynamic, 10-day experience designed to empower aspiring Administrators with the tools, confidence, and real world insight they need to lead a community.

Our Bootcamp is designed for those going through their Administrator Residency program at any Saber affiliated community, as well as newly licensed Administrators looking to strengthen their skills and expand their knowledge. Through a blend of expert led sessions, facility tours, and hands-on activities, participants gain deep knowledge in:

Regulatory compliance & risk management

Financial operations & budgeting

Human resources & staffing strategies

Resident-centered care & quality improvement

Marketing, admissions, & community engagement

Emergency preparedness & survey readiness

What sets us apart is our commitment to your journey beyond the classroom. Graduates of the Bootcamp are paired with seasoned mentors through our Administrator Mentorship Program, and receive ongoing support from our Leadership Development team, ensuring you’re not just prepared to lead, but supported every step of the way.

FAQs

How do I apply for the programs?

Applications can be found on PolicyTech under “Administrator Residency Program Overview”. If you have trouble finding the document, you can ask your Administrator for assistance or reach out to Kimberly.Chuma@saberhealth.com

What are the eligibility criteria?

Eligibility criteria vary by state and program. It's important to check your state-specific requirements prior to applying. Detailed program specific requirements can be found within the program descriptions and application forms.

Contact Information

For more information or assistance with the application process, please contact the Administrator at your community or the Director of Leadership Development.

Email: Kimberly.Chuma@saberhealth.com