Distinctive Living Appoints Shelley Esden as EVP and COO

Freehold Township, New Jersey, August 19, 2024 – Distinctive Living, a leading national senior living management and development company, has appointed Shelley Esden as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer.

Esden, recognized for her innovative approach to senior care, brings a wealth of industry experience, including her role as Founder and CEO of Lexor Living and her 15-year tenure at Sonata Senior Living, where she progressed from SVP of Operations to COO and ultimately CEO.

Esden’s appointment includes the addition of Lexor Living to the Distinctive Living family of brands, expanding the company’s offerings in the luxury senior living sector.

“I am excited to accept this opportunity and contribute my expertise to enhance Distinctive Living’s growth and execution strategy,” said Esden. “Operational efficiency, fostering a strong culture, and ensuring owner alignment are paramount. I look forward to driving successful outcomes across financial, sales, wellness, and cultural aspects.”

Jedlowski echoes Esden’s enthusiasm for the appointment. “Bringing Shelley on as COO will enable us to expand the Distinctive brand while prioritizing operational execution of our current portfolio’s integrity,” he stated.

With Esden on board, Distinctive Living strengthens its position as a leader in innovative senior living operations and development. “Having a team of experienced executives ensures we meet our business goals while introducing new luxury and mid-market offerings,” Jedlowski added.

Looking Ahead to 2025
In line with the rapid growth of the industry, Distinctive Living has ambitious plans for 2025, focusing on operational excellence, attracting top talent, and establishing best-in-class partnerships to enhance efficiencies. Additionally, Jedlowski explains that the organization has been investing in data capture and analysis.

“We’ve prioritized becoming a data-driven organization,” stated Lindsey Hacker, EVP and CFO. “Adding Shelley to our executive team will integrate our current emphasis on systems, processes, and protocols into our operating culture, utilizing data to create excellent outcomes in sales, clinical, and operational areas. This will make us more effective and better equipped to serve our communities and investors with the high standards and execution we demand.”

About Distinctive Living:
Distinctive Living is a national senior living management provider dedicated to assisting its partners in establishing their properties as world-class providers in the active adult, independent living, assisted living, and memory care sectors. As a nationally trusted management provider, Distinctive Living is positioned to deliver best-in-industry care through a holistic approach for residents of the communities it manages. Distinctive Living currently operates 46 communities and has 14 under development via its development services platform (Distinctive Living Development, LLC). To learn more about our services, visit and

For more information or media inquiries, please contact Cheryl Ross at info@distinctive-liv.com or 888.433.7794.