MCLEAN, Va. — Sunrise Senior Living has announced the departure of Chris Winkle, the company’s CEO for over six years. The company’s Board of Managers has started a search for a replacement, with Winkle assisting in the efforts. A reason for the move was not disclosed.
“This is certainly a bittersweet announcement, but the board and I have mutually agreed the time is right for me to transition from this role,” says Winkle. “I have never had more pride in an organization than I have this past year, seeing Sunrise team members respond with such grace and passion as they have relentlessly cared for our residents through the COVID-19 pandemic. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to lead our great team.”
Winkle joined Sunrise as chief operating officer in 2013 and was named CEO in 2014. Under his leadership, Sunrise restarted its development pipeline, completed several large acquisitions, introduced technology to enhance resident care and invested in ancillary organizations as additional revenue growth streams. Winkle serves as secretary of Argentum’s board of directors and on the board of the American Seniors Housing Association.
The Board of Managers has engaged Ferguson Partners in the executive search for Winkle’s replacement.
Based in McLean, Sunrise is the fifth largest seniors housing operator in the United States with 268 properties totaling 26,641 units, according to June data from the American Seniors Housing Association.