2022 40 Under 40: Jessica Saad

Sometimes, staying within one company can pay off, and it has in more ways than one for Jessica Saad. She started as a certified nursing assistant for Vetter Senior Living in 2009, and a decade later, she became the executive director at the company’s Creekside at Elfindale independent living facility.

In an effort to encourage and support Creekside’s seniors and staff, Saad, 31, has implemented mentor and lead positions that have helped team members use their strengths to develop better processes and their leadership skills.

She had to implement personal protective equipment training for staff during the COVID-19 pandemic and make sometimes unpopular decisions to help keep the seniors safe. Her proudest accomplishment at this point in the pandemic is preventing any outbreaks in either of the communal facilities she leads.

First job? While attending high school, I worked as a birthday party hostess at Incredible Pizza Co.

Best celebrity meeting/sighting story? I was ordering hot tea in a quiet little coffee shop in Chicago when Fred Armisen walked up to the counter. I didn’t want to appear starstruck, but I am sure my smile gave away my excitement. He flashed a generous smile and waved.

Favorite local order? Vegan fresh spring rolls and lemongrass tofu vermicelli at Bambu.