Saber Health Group
Administrator Residency Program
Train to Become a Nursing Home Administrator with Us!
At Saber Healthcare, we believe that strong leadership is the foundation of exceptional care. That’s why we’ve made a meaningful investment in developing future Administrators through our Administrator Residency Program. This initiative reflects our commitment to nurturing talent from within and equipping our team members with the tools, mentorship, and real-world experience needed to thrive in leadership roles across our communities.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Our Administrator Residency program offers a structured path to becoming a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA), including:
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
Whether you're an internal team member or a new applicant, this program is your opportunity to grow your career and make a meaningful impact in long-term care. Apply today and begin your journey toward leadership in healthcare administration.
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
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
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 and risk management
Financial operations and budgeting
Human resources and staffing strategies
Resident-centered care and quality improvement
Marketing, admissions, and community engagement
Emergency preparedness and 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.
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.