Leadership
Dan Williams, CEO
With over 22 years of experience in the Senior Living Industry, Dan is an industry veteran with remarkable accomplishments. He has played a crucial role in the development and management of numerous communities throughout his career.
Having been involved in developing over 30 ground up communities, Dan possesses extensive expertise in building successful senior living organizations. Moreover, he has provided direct leadership for over 100 stabilized communities and successfully overseen multiple turnarounds, demonstrating his ability to navigate challenging situations and drive positive outcomes.
Notably, Dan played a key role in the growth of two senior living organizations. As the Principal, President, and Chief Operating Officer of a Northwest-based Operator, he successfully scaled the company from 5 to 21 communities within three years through strategic mergers, acquisitions, and ground-up development. Prior to that, as the Chief Operating Officer of another Northwest-based Operator, he facilitated the expansion from 19 to 35 communities, while providing stability and strategic planning for the organization.
Beyond his operational roles, Dan has established himself as a respected industry expert. He holds memberships in influential organizations like the Urban Land Institute – Senior Housing Council, Senior Living 100, and ASHA. Dan is also a sought-after speaker, frequently sharing his insights and knowledge at industry events and in publications such as Senior Housing News and Seniors Housing Business Magazine.
Dan's track record of success, breadth of experience, and contributions to the Senior Living Industry make him a highly accomplished professional with invaluable expertise in all facets of the Senior Living industry.
Elliott Westerman, MBA, CCIM - Chief Financial and Investment Officer
Elliott Westermanis a highly accomplished finance executive with extensive experience in senior living and other industries. As a seasoned Chief Financial Officer (CFO), he demonstrates exceptional financial acumen and strategic leadership.
Elliott consistently delivers outstanding results by driving financial growth and optimizing operational efficiencies. He is recognized as a trusted advisor and catalyst for Ally’s success, navigating complex challenges and implementing innovative solutions.
Elliott holds a master's degree in Business Administration from Seattle University and a degree focusing on economics, GIS, cartography, and statistics from The Pennsylvania State University. His solid educational background enables him to make informed decisions, mitigate risks, and maximize investment returns.
Throughout his career, Elliott has held senior leadership positions in renowned senior living organizations. He leverages his expertise to drive financial stability, profitability, and sustainable growth. With a passion for enhancing the lives of seniors, Elliott combines his financial expertise with genuine empathy to make a positive impact on residents and their families. He is respected as a leader and driving force in the senior living industry, contributing to the growth and success of Ally Senior Living.
Laurie McConnell, Vice President of Operations
Laurie McConnell is an accomplished professional with an impressive track record in the senior living industry, spanning over two decades. With a strong foundation as an Executive Director, where she showcased her outstanding leadership abilities in overseeing the overall operations of a senior living community.
Recognized for her exceptional aptitude in managing multiple facilities, Laurie was appointed as Regional Director of Operations. In this capacity, she demonstrated her exceptional organizational and strategic skills, ensuring the success and growth of various senior living communities under her purview. Currently, Laurie serves as the Vice President of Operations at Ally, where she continues to contribute her invaluable expertise and insights to the organization's success.
With her keen eye for identifying underperforming communities, she employs her extensive knowledge and experience to implement successful turnaround strategies. Through her focused efforts, Laurie has consistently delivered impressive results, revitalizing struggling senior living communities and returning them to a state of profitability and excellence.
Her extensive experience, exceptional leadership skills, and unwavering commitment to serving residents have made her an invaluable asset to Ally and a respected figure in the field.
Terrie Lynn Harwell, Vice President of Sales Marketing
With over 25 years of industry experience, Terrie Lynn is a highly accomplished professional with a remarkable track record in driving census growth, excelling in sales coaching, and devising effective marketing plans. With a wealth of experience and expertise, Terrie Lynn has consistently demonstrated her ability to achieve outstanding results in these areas.
Terrie Lynn's exceptional prowess in census growth is evident through her strategic initiatives and comprehensive understanding of demographic trends. Her insightful analysis and proactive approach have led to substantial increases in census numbers for multiple organizations.
Through her personalized coaching programs, she has empowered countless sales professionals to reach new heights of performance. Terrie Lynn's deep knowledge of effective sales techniques have consistently translated into significant revenue growth for her communities propelling them ahead of the competition.
Terri Lynn's remarkable professional accomplishments in driving census growth, sales coaching, and marketing plans speak volumes about her exceptional skills and dedication. Her innovative strategies, meticulous approach, and unwavering commitment to excellence have earned her a reputation as a true industry leader.
Vanessa Llorente, Vice President of Administration a.k.a "Swiss Army Knife"
Vanessa Llorente, a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience in the senior living industry, boasts an impressive track record of accomplishments. With a diverse background in sales and operations, she has specialized in successfully navigating the transition of distressed Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Independent Living communities. Vanessa's expertise shines through her role as a project manager, leading several turnarounds to date in the field of distressed acquisitions.
Kicking off her career as a spend management consultant for the Oregon Healthcare Association, Vanessa quickly immersed herself in the world of senior living. However, it was her direct involvement with Assisted Living and Memory Care communities that truly ignited her passion. Working closely with residents, their families, and building teams, she found great fulfillment in serving and supporting them. Throughout her journey, Vanessa has demonstrated outstanding leadership, fostering high-performance standards within teams and cultivating a positive work culture that ensures exceptional care for residents.
In her role as Vice President of Administration, Vanessa holds a pivotal position where she makes an important impact. Taking charge of operational support, she successfully influences our Leadership Team. Her unwavering focus on organizational culture has left an indelible mark on Ally Senior Living, creating an environment conducive to growth and excellence.
Melissa Orello, Regional Director of Operations
Melissa is a dedicated professional with 20 years of experience in the Senior Living Industry, currently residing in Stockton, California. Throughout her career, she has held diverse roles, demonstrating her commitment to providing exceptional care to residents.
Starting as a care manager at Atria Senior Living, Melissa spent 15 years directly attending to residents' needs. Through her hard work and expertise, she progressed to positions such as Memory Care Director, Executive Director, and presently serves as the Regional Director of Operations.
With a genuine passion for healthcare and senior care, Melissa pursued a Bachelor's Degree in Healthcare Management from the University of Phoenix. Additionally, she is currently working towards her Masters of Gerontology from the University of Southern California.
Melissa's unwavering dedication shines through in the first-class support she provides to the communities under her supervision. She ensures that residents receive the exceptional care they deserve.
Outside of her professional life, Melissa finds joy in spending quality time with her family, cherishing the journey of her children through life's adventures.
Laura Schutt, Distressed Asset Specialist
Laura's journey in healthcare began at the age of 19, where she dedicated herself to serving Alzheimer's residents as a CNA. She later expanded her skills by working in the telemetry unit of a hospital while pursuing her college education. After taking time off to raise her four daughters, Laura reentered the workforce and through hard work and dedication, she climbed the ranks, progressing from Sales Manager to Assistant Executive Director, and ultimately attaining the position of Executive Director.
Driven by a desire to uplift communities, Laura is particularly devoted to mentoring individuals to reach their fullest potential. She excels in training, fostering team unity, fostering census growth, and ensuring financial stability. Laura possesses a deep understanding of state regulations and processes, enabling her to navigate complex challenges and effect positive change within senior living communities.
Laura's exceptional career trajectory and commitment to community revitalization make her an invaluable asset. With her extensive knowledge and unwavering dedication, she possesses the expertise required to successfully turn around and transform any community.