Acertitude Places CIO for Enlivant
April 15, 2020 – Executive search firm Acertitude has recruited Justin Sheppard as chief information officer for Enlivant, one of the nation’s largest senior living owners and operators with a presence in 27 states across the U.S. Co-founder and managing partner Rick DeRose spearheaded the assignment.
As CIO, Mr. Sheppard has strategic oversight for all aspects of technology and is responsible for the delivery of technology services to the organization. He joins Enlivant during a period of growth for the company as it continues to scale its national operating platform and deliver personalized care for more than 11,000 residents.
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Acertitude’s search took 105 days. Mr. DeRose, who has a strong record of placing CIOs and IT leaders, collaborated closely with Enlivant’s president and chief operating officer Dan Guill, chief human resources officer Peter Smith and TPG Capital CIO advisor Ron Kim.
“Rick and this team guided us strategically throughout the process,” said Mr. Guill. “Their in-depth approach to understanding our culture and leadership competencies resulted in one of the most effective and efficient search processes I have experienced.”
Adding Value
“In this challenging and ever-changing environment, Justin has added value in identifying IT solutions and built strong relationships with his stakeholders,” said Mr. Guill. “His upbeat personality has been an excellent addition to our leadership team — his functional expertise and engaging management style are transforming our IT function and our organization.”
Previously, Mr. Sheppard served as director of information technology at GTCR, a private equity firm, where, in addition to managing the firm’s technology, he advised GTCR’s portfolio companies on technology matters and conducted technology due diligence in support of the firm’s investment activities.
Prior to GTCR, Mr. Sheppard held several technology leadership roles at Sears Holdings, including managing the development of a global technology service delivery center and co-founding a data management and analytics company. His career began at Deloitte Consulting as a technology consultant helping lead companies through complex software implementations.
“The role of the CIO is critical, and never more so than in today’s environment where organizations are doubling down on digital transformation,” said Mr. DeRose. “Justin is extremely well versed in designing and managing complex IT initiatives and building global teams in a private equity environment. We look forward to seeing his immediate impact at Enlivant — and on the caregivers and senior living community it serves — to help guide the company through this challenging time for all.”
Finding Leaders
Enlivant, founded in 1981, is based in Chicago. The company was the 16th largest of the all U.S. seniors housing owners, with 220 properties and 10,242 units, according to American Seniors Housing Association’s 2019 annual rankings. Enlivant was acquired by leading private equity firm TPG in 2013. Throughout the life of the partnership, Enlivant has continually enhanced its operational capabilities and expanded its national footprint through organic growth and external acquisitions.
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Founded in 2015, Acertitude specializes in recruiting CEO, C-suite and executive talent in the consumer, financial, healthcare and life sciences, industrial, private equity, professional services and technology sectors. Its consultants work from offices in Boston; London; Los Angeles; New York; Philadelphia; Providence, RI; Raleigh, NC; Shanghai; Tampa, FL; and Washington, D.C.
Mr. DeRose advises leaders of technology and private equity firms on board and leadership selection, often consulting on how influential trends in digital, mobility, cloud, big data, security and the customer experience are redefining the skills and expertise needed at work. He has a strong history of recruiting successful sales, marketing and strategy talent for businesses that are growing rapidly and driving transformative change. He has proven expertise in telecommunications, technology, private equity and professional services.
Contributed by Scott A. Scanlon, Editor-in-Chief; Dale M. Zupsansky, Managing Editor; and Stephen Sawicki, Managing Editor – Hunt Scanlon Media
