Director of Sales and Marketing

Director of Marketing The Chesapeake | Newport News, VA A LifeSpire of Virginia Community Inspire the Next Chapter of Senior Living At LifeSpire of Virginia, we believe retirement should be filled with purpose, connection, and opportunity. As one of Virginia's largest not-for-profit providers of Life Plan Communities, we've been serving older adults for more than 75 years with a mission rooted in compassion, dignity, and exceptional service. Our communities are designed to help residents live vibrant, fulfilling lives while providing peace of mind for the future. We're seeking an experienced, relationship-driven Director of Marketing to lead sales and marketing efforts at The Chesapeake, our premier waterfront Life Plan Community in Newport News, Virginia. This is an exciting leadership opportunity for a strategic marketer and accomplished sales professional who is passionate about helping older adults discover a community where they can truly thrive. As Director of Marketing, you'll play a critical role in driving occupancy, leading a high-performing sales team, building community partnerships, and sharing the exceptional lifestyle that makes The Chesapeake one of Virginia's most desirable retirement communities. About The Chesapeake Nestled along the scenic James River in Newport News, The Chesapeake is an award-winning Life Plan Community offering Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Support, Skilled Nursing, and Rehabilitation services. Residents enjoy beautiful waterfront views, engaging wellness programs, exceptional dining, and a vibrant lifestyle supported by a dedicated team committed to excellence in hospitality and care. At The Chesapeake, every day is an opportunity to build meaningful relationships, create memorable experiences, and make a lasting impact on the lives of residents and their families. Position Summary The Director of Marketing is responsible for achieving and maintaining occupancy goals within Independent Living through strategic sales leadership, marketing initiatives, relationship development, and exceptional customer experiences. This position collaborates closely with executive leadership while supervising the community's sales team and implementing innovative marketing strategies that generate qualified leads and convert prospects into residents. The successful candidate is an energetic leader who combines strategic thinking with hands-on execution and enjoys building lasting relationships throughout the community. What You'll Do

• Develop and execute strategic sales and marketing plans to achieve occupancy goals.
• Lead, coach, and mentor the community sales team to maximize performance and results.
• Cultivate relationships with prospective residents, families, referral sources, and community partners.
• Manage the entire sales process, from lead generation through move-in.
• Create innovative marketing campaigns utilizing digital marketing, social media, direct mail, advertising, and community outreach.
• Plan and execute engaging marketing events, educational seminars, and community programs.
• Deliver compelling presentations to prospective residents, civic organizations, and professional groups.
• Partner with the Executive Director and Vice President of Marketing & Public Relations to implement organizational marketing strategies.
• Monitor sales performance, analyze market trends, and recommend strategies for continued growth.
• Ensure consistent messaging that reflects the LifeSpire brand and mission.
• Promote The Chesapeake's Life Plan Community lifestyle and value proposition.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

What We're Looking For Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Business, Communications, or a related field.
• Minimum of three (3) years of successful sales & marketing experience
• Demonstrated success achieving occupancy and/or sales goals.
• Understanding of senior healthcare and retirement living services.
• Outstanding communication and presentation skills.
• Proven consultative sales and relationship-building abilities.
• Strategic marketing experience across traditional and digital channels.
• Strong negotiation and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent organizational and project management abilities.
• Ability to analyze contracts, sales data, and market trends.
• A collaborative leadership style focused on coaching and team development.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in sales and marketing within a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) or Life Plan Community.
• Knowledge of Life Care, Type B, and Type C contracts.
• Experience planning successful community events and lead-generation campaigns.

Requirements

• Valid Virginia Driver's License.
• Ability and willingness to travel locally using a personal vehicle as needed.
• Flexibility to work evenings and weekends for marketing events and community activities.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to occasionally lift, push, pull, or move up to 20 pounds.
• Ability to operate standard office equipment and computers.
• Visual acuity sufficient for computer work and document review.
• Ability to work within a senior living and healthcare environment.

Why Join LifeSpire? At LifeSpire, our team members are at the heart of everything we do. We foster a culture built on integrity, compassion, collaboration, innovation, and service excellence. When you join our team, you're joining an organization committed to making a meaningful difference every day. We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, professional development opportunities, and the chance to build a rewarding career while enriching the lives of older adults. If you're a dynamic marketing leader who thrives on building relationships, driving results, and helping others find a place to call home, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today and help shape the future of senior living at The Chesapeake, a LifeSpire of Virginia community.