It's the people who make retirement living special
Behind every thriving retirement village is a team of dedicated people who do far more than perform a job.
From managers and administrators to gardeners and support staff, they help create communities where residents feel connected, supported and at home.
Across Keyton villages, employees often describe their roles in different ways, but one theme consistently shines through: retirement living is a people-first career.
The people at the heart of the community
For Nicole, Senior Village Manager at Fiddlers Green, building relationships is at the heart of everything she does.
"I would say my role is about creating a happy, safe and secure environment for the residents," Nicole says. "The job is about getting to know the residents and forming close relationships."
After more than 19 years in the industry, Nicole has seen firsthand the positive impact retirement living can have on people's lives. While her days can involve everything from speaking with residents and families to managing staff and coordinating property upgrades, it is the human connection that keeps her passionate about her work.
"Communication and compassion," she says, are the two most important qualities for anyone considering a similar career. "You just don't know who's going to walk into your office and need understanding."
At Abervale, Village Administrator Karen has become a familiar and much-loved face after more than 24 years with the village. Her journey began as a cleaner before she moved into administration, a role that has allowed her to connect with generations of residents and families.
When asked what she enjoys most, her answer is immediate.
"It's interaction with the residents. And milestone events," Karen says. "There were some really special times. 100th birthday celebrations, the village anniversary and we even had a wedding here not long ago. This is fantastic. This is when we can make the residents happy."
Although she describes herself as an introvert, Karen has built countless meaningful relationships over the years. Her dedication has earned her a reputation as the heart of the community, demonstrating how retirement living careers are often defined not by tasks, but by the people whose lives are touched along the way.
Making a difference every day
At Menzies Malvern, Village Support Officer Harry is proving that age is no barrier to making a positive impact. At just 22, Harry has become a trusted member of the community, assisting residents with everything from meal services and wellbeing checks to troubleshooting technology issues.
For Harry, the greatest reward comes from the connections he has built.
"Interacting with the residents and hearing their stories," he says, is the best part of his role.
He believes strong people skills, patience and a willingness to listen are essential qualities for success in retirement living. "Talking with the residents, being patient, listening to them and making it fun are important," he says.
Together, Nicole, Karen, Troy and Harry represent the diverse range of careers available in retirement living. Their roles may look very different from one another, but they share a common purpose: helping residents live well.
Their stories are a reminder that retirement living is much more than property management, administration, maintenance or support services. At its core, it is about people. For those looking for a meaningful career built on connection, compassion and community, retirement living offers the opportunity to make a difference every single day.
💼 Find out more about your career opportunities at Keyton.
For more information about the lifestyle and support offered at our retirement villages, call our customer service team on 1800 550 550 or send us an email here.
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