Team Member Spotlight: Beyond the Job Description - Melanie Lenker is Transforming HR Systems at Presbyterian Senior Living

At Presbyterian Senior Living, our team members are the heart of our organization. Today, we're shining the spotlight on Melanie Lenker, who has been with PSL for ten years and currently serves as our Human Resources System Support Coordinator.

A Career Dedicated to Serving Others

Melanie's career has been rooted in the non-profit sector, always gravitating toward organizations that serve others. "It was natural for me to gravitate towards PSL," she explains. What's particularly meaningful about her work in senior living is the family connection—her mother, sister and almost all of her aunts have worked in senior living in various roles from CNA's, LPNs, RNs, activities, laundry and housekeeping.

"In a way, I’ve come full circle," Melanie reflects. "I ask them so many questions about their roles and workplaces, and what they want from their employer, which not only sparks ideas that I can bring back, but I love when I hear “I wish we had…” and I excitedly respond with PSL has that or already does that!

From Administrative Assistant to System Support Coordinator

Melanie began her journey at PSL as an Administrative Assistant for Human Resources. After three years, she transitioned to her current role as HR System Support Coordinator, where she handles reporting for HR, technical support for My HR, applicant tracking, and serves as a systems administrator for Symplr, PSL's applicant tracking system.

"PSL is an organization that really sees your skill set and really hones in on that and gives you the opportunity to grow," Melanie shares. Her position combines both technical expertise and creative skills, allowing her to develop instructional materials and manuals that benefit the entire organization.

"The nice thing is that no two days are the same, no two weeks are the same. You have to pivot. I absolutely love it. I never get bored," she says with enthusiasm.

A Unique Role with Far-Reaching Impact

Melanie's position is one-of-a-kind at PSL, giving her a unique perspective on the organization's operations. When asked about advice for those entering senior living or healthcare, she emphasizes mindfulness about mental health.

"Working in healthcare can take a toll on mental health.. It's so fast-paced and you're connected to people. It's easy to get burnt out," she acknowledges. "Even on tough days, I remind myself to go above and beyond, knowing my work impacts team members and residents alike."

The PSL Difference: A Supportive Family

What sets PSL apart from other organizations? According to Melanie, it's the people and shared values. "PSL isn't that we get a certain type of employee, but everyone has the same values," she explains. "I've made lifelong friends here. People that I talk to every day even when I’m away from work."

Compared to her previous experience at smaller organizations, Melanie appreciates the extensive support system at PSL. "I always feel heard here. I always feel supported. I feel like the entire HR team has my back. It's nice to have that support."

The strong bonds formed at PSL create a family-like atmosphere. "Where I've worked before, we were an office of 3-4 people, while here I have this huge support system and we all collaborate and communicate so well. It's so sad when someone leaves because we have that emotional connection. It's kind of like a family."

Valuable Benefits and Resources

Melanie highlights several PSL benefits that have made a difference in her life:

• Annual Leave Exchange Program: This program allows you to exchange unused annual leave time.
• Wellness webinars: "Meditation webinars and things I would love to do in my personal life but just don't make the time for. When I get the invite in my email, I block out the time."
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Melanie has used this for initiating a will & trust plan and appreciates the option for therapy services when needed.

Looking Forward: Enhancing Employee Experience

As someone who configures the back end of many HR systems, Melanie encourages team members to take advantage of the resources available in My HR. "If you haven’t logged into My HR recently, take a moment to explore the resources available—you might be surprised at what’s there!" There's so much there from pay stubs, taxes, PSL resources, licenses/certifications, etc. and you can easily log in via the UKG app."

Recent enhancements to the system include improved views so employees can see more information about their pay structure, including differentials and other rate components.

"We love getting feedback to know what people want to see," Melanie emphasizes. Her dedication to improving systems and processes continues to enhance the employee experience across PSL.