Jean Sandel Retirement Village Manager, Michael Borostyan describes his new role as village manager in the middle of a world-wide pandemic as exciting and challenging.
“It’s been a steep learning curve beginning this crucial role in the village at such an extraordinary time, but I feel very fortunate to have this job. We’ve created safe-havens for our residents, brought them everything they need while under lockdown, and will continue to do so to protect our most vulnerable.”
Michael, who has travelled the world and been a hotelier all his working life, has spent the most of the last 12 years in Asia, four of those working in China.
“It was very difficult for a family, especially in China, so as my wife came from New Plymouth, we made the decision to settle back here and look for a family home. We wanted our children to have consistency with schooling and friendships and not be uprooted every few years to a new city in a new country.
“We now live on a fantastic life-style property and in my spare time I am restoring our old villa. I have no doubt that it will keep me occupied for the next few years!
“The quality of life in New Plymouth is unsurpassed. It is a safe environment and after living in Asia you appreciate the green environment. We are very settled here and love it.”
Although there are many similarities to his previous work, such as overseeing the village property, maintenance, gardens, food and beverage, staff management and leadership, for Michael, understanding every part of his job especially the clinical facets is important to him.
“This is a dynamic environment with over 400 residents living in their own homes, in our care, as well as a very large employee base. There is no limit to the amount of challenges you experience daily and you must be very committed and balanced in your decision-making, as it can have far-reaching impacts.
“It’s a big step to move into a retirement village - we understand that and offer all the help and support necessary to make that transition as seamless as possible.
“We have a wonderful welcoming community here and residents can be as involved in village life as they wish. We encourage social activities, but we also understand that’s not for everyone. The village has fantastic amenities and if residents wish to use them, they can access the heated indoor-swimming pool and gym, play bowls on the all-weather green, take in a movie in the theatre, along with many other daily activities and events.
“The Ryman philosophy of ‘it has to be good enough for Mum and Dad’ is our overarching objective within the village. I believe we deliver on those promises so you can be sure your family member is going to get the best of care and consistent kindness.”
Michael is fortunate to have a great team working with him including some staff who have worked in the village since it opened and have established close relationships with the residents. He considers himself very lucky that he has a highly qualified and experienced clinical manager to assist him in managing clinical aspects of the care centre.
“We focus on the kindness and care of our residents and their families. Most important is my relationship with them. If they have a concern, I want them to know that I am accessible, will listen, and find a resolution quickly. This is their home and I feel very privileged to be managing the operational aspects of their home.
“That overall responsibility falls on me, so I work closely with my team to ensure their quality of life is at the highest level possible.
“This is an absolutely stunning village with lots of resident engagement and I have been blessed to come into such a professionally run village. Ryman are committed to upholding the best of standards and best practice. I am very fortunate to be leading the business and care of the residents.”
“It was very difficult for a family, especially in China, so as my wife came from New Plymouth, we made the decision to settle back here and look for a family home. We wanted our children to have consistency with schooling and friendships and not be uprooted every few years to a new city in a new country.
“We now live on a fantastic life-style property and in my spare time I am restoring our old villa. I have no doubt that it will keep me occupied for the next few years!
“The quality of life in New Plymouth is unsurpassed. It is a safe environment and after living in Asia you appreciate the green environment. We are very settled here and love it.”
Although there are many similarities to his previous work, such as overseeing the village property, maintenance, gardens, food and beverage, staff management and leadership, for Michael, understanding every part of his job especially the clinical facets is important to him.
“This is a dynamic environment with over 400 residents living in their own homes, in our care, as well as a very large employee base. There is no limit to the amount of challenges you experience daily and you must be very committed and balanced in your decision-making, as it can have far-reaching impacts.
“It’s a big step to move into a retirement village - we understand that and offer all the help and support necessary to make that transition as seamless as possible.
“We have a wonderful welcoming community here and residents can be as involved in village life as they wish. We encourage social activities, but we also understand that’s not for everyone. The village has fantastic amenities and if residents wish to use them, they can access the heated indoor-swimming pool and gym, play bowls on the all-weather green, take in a movie in the theatre, along with many other daily activities and events.
“The Ryman philosophy of ‘it has to be good enough for Mum and Dad’ is our overarching objective within the village. I believe we deliver on those promises so you can be sure your family member is going to get the best of care and consistent kindness.”
Michael is fortunate to have a great team working with him including some staff who have worked in the village since it opened and have established close relationships with the residents. He considers himself very lucky that he has a highly qualified and experienced clinical manager to assist him in managing clinical aspects of the care centre.
“We focus on the kindness and care of our residents and their families. Most important is my relationship with them. If they have a concern, I want them to know that I am accessible, will listen, and find a resolution quickly. This is their home and I feel very privileged to be managing the operational aspects of their home.
“That overall responsibility falls on me, so I work closely with my team to ensure their quality of life is at the highest level possible.
“This is an absolutely stunning village with lots of resident engagement and I have been blessed to come into such a professionally run village. Ryman are committed to upholding the best of standards and best practice. I am very fortunate to be leading the business and care of the residents.”
