WESTPORT, CT — Maplewood Senior Living is entering a new phase of growth and innovation with the appointment of long-time executives Shane Herlet and Tom Gaston as Co-Chief Executive Officers. The leadership transition underscores the company’s commitment to strategic growth, operational excellence, and the continued elevation of the senior living experience.
Herlet, formerly Maplewood’s Chief Operating Officer, and Gaston, previously Chief Investment Officer, bring complementary expertise and a shared vision focused on innovation, financial discipline, and resident-centered care. Together, they will guide Maplewood as it addresses evolving industry challenges and expands its footprint in key urban markets.
“Maplewood Senior Living has always been about leading the way in senior living,” said Herlet. “Tom and I are proud to carry that tradition forward—ensuring Maplewood not only adapts to a changing landscape but continues to thrive.”
Gaston added, “We are entering this next chapter from a position of tremendous strength—operationally, financially, and culturally. Our growth strategy is thoughtful and intentional. Expansion for us is never about scale alone; it’s about raising the standard for what luxury senior living can be.”
Leveraging Technology to Address Industry Pressures
As senior living operators nationwide confront workforce shortages, rising costs, and increasing expectations from residents and families, Maplewood is investing heavily in technology to enhance both care delivery and operational performance.
To strengthen workforce recruitment and retention, the company is deploying AI-powered recruitment platforms and advanced training systems designed to attract top talent, support professional development, and maintain high levels of staff engagement.
On the financial front, Maplewood is adopting predictive analytics and sophisticated financial modeling to manage escalating operating expenses while preserving the high-quality services, amenities, and environments that define the brand. These tools are intended to ensure long-term financial stability without compromising resident care.
In addition, Maplewood is advancing operational excellence through the integration of AI and data analytics across its business processes. By streamlining workflows and reducing administrative burdens, the company aims to empower its teams to spend more time focused on residents and families, enhancing overall satisfaction and outcomes.
Continued Growth of the Inspīr Brand
A cornerstone of Maplewood’s growth strategy is the continued expansion of Inspīr, its award-winning urban luxury senior living brand. Inspīr Carnegie Hill, located on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, will celebrate its fifth anniversary in 2026 and has earned national recognition for redefining urban senior living through a blend of world-class hospitality, holistic wellness, and high-acuity care.
Building on that success, Inspīr Embassy Row opened in February 2025 in Washington, D.C., bringing the brand’s signature approach to another major metropolitan market. Both communities are noted not only for their design and lifestyle offerings, but also for their expertise in memory care, delivering personalized, compassionate support in thoughtfully designed environments.
By integrating care for body, mind, and spirit with innovative programming and technology, Maplewood Senior Living continues to position itself at the forefront of an evolving industry—one increasingly defined by choice, personalization, and elevated expectations.
With its new co-CEO leadership structure and a strong focus on innovation, Maplewood is poised to build on its legacy while shaping the future of luxury senior living.
