Congratulations to AlmaVia of Camarillo Sales and Marketing Director, Whitney LaBrie, for being named Outstanding Department Director by the California Assisted Living Association (CALA).
Outstanding is an understatement when describing Whitney. Her job title may be “Sales and Marketing Director,” but you’ll find her working beyond her job description. Hairdresser, maintenance worker are just a few of the roles Whitney has stepped into to lend a helping hand.
“I have been blessed with amazing mentors in my life,” Whitney said. “Whenever faced with obstacles, I always consider how those leaders would have responded. Sometimes that means going outside your job duties to help out another department, thinking outside the box, or rolling your sleeves up and scrubbing floors. Leadership is not always glamorous, but it’s always needed.”
Whitney joined the Elder Care Alliance family and AVC in March 2017. The way she found herself working in senior living also is a testament to her above and beyond work ethic. After the economy came crashing down in 2008, Whitney lost her job working in the furniture business.
“I answered an ad for a reception position at an assisted living community. They were not going to hire me because I was overqualified for the reception job. I asked if they could train me after my shift for a sales assistant since they didn’t have any sales position open. They agreed, and the rest is history.”
Over her years working in the industry, Whitney says she knew the role goes beyond selling apartments to seniors. To her, it’s about giving purpose and enriching lives.
“I promised myself I would always be more than just a typical marketing person. So when I was nominated for this award and won, it was validation that I had stood by the promise I had made to myself so many years ago.”
Not only has she jumped into to help other departments, Whitney has also stepped in to help residents and family stay connected. When the challenges and isolation of the pandemic we are living in began to mount, she began creating fun and humorous YouTube videos that allowed residents to say hello to their families and the world.
Whitney is our Sales and Marketing Director extraordinaire. She lives our values and mission and is more than deserving of being named 2020 Outstanding Department Director. Thank you for all you do, Whitney.
