As senior living and post-acute care providers navigate increasing operational, reimbursement, and regulatory complexity, RKL’s Senior Living Services Consulting Group is entering its next chapter of leadership in step with the industry’s evolution.
The firm announced that Stephanie Kessler will now lead the group, succeeding Jeffrey Boland, whose leadership helped establish the practice as a nationally recognized advisor to providers across the country.
With more than 30 years of experience as a nurse, healthcare educator, and consultant/partner at RKL, Kessler brings a perspective that reflects the increasingly interdisciplinary needs of senior living and post-acute care organizations. Her background spans post-acute care operations, strategic planning, regulatory and billing compliance, third-party reimbursement, quality improvement, survey assistance, and electronic health record implementation.
“I’ve had the pleasure to work alongside Stephanie for over 20 years and can attest to the rare combination of clinical insight, operational experience, and deep industry knowledge she brings to this position,” said Boland. “She has earned the trust of clients and colleagues alike through her thoughtful guidance and steady leadership. I’m confident the Senior Living Services Consulting Group will continue to grow and evolve under her direction.”
Since joining RKL in 2011, Boland has shaped RKL’s Senior Living Services Consulting Group through his deep expertise in the financial and functional dynamics of the post-acute care industry. His experience in operational analysis, financial feasibility, regulatory compliance, and reimbursement has been instrumental in building the strong foundation from which the group will continue to grow. Today, the practice serves clients nationwide, with a footprint spanning from Boston to Hawaii and includes three partners and over 50 employees.
Boland will continue in his partner role, serving clients and leading engagements through his anticipated retirement on Dec. 31, 2027.
“Jeff’s leadership has been foundational to the success and reputation of our Senior Living Services Consulting Group,” said Ed Monborne, RKL’s CEO. “He built a practice known for its deep industry specialization and practical guidance. He has also been instrumental in preparing the next generation of leaders, including Stephanie, to continue to grow this dynamic practice.”
Under Kessler’s leadership, RKL will continue to evolve its Senior Living Services Consulting Group to meet the expanding needs of providers facing workforce pressures, heightened regulatory scrutiny, reimbursement challenges, and rising expectations around quality and operational performance. The group will remain focused on delivering specialized consulting services that help organizations strengthen compliance, improve performance, and plan strategically for long-term sustainability. As part of the transition, RKL also remains committed to growing its financial consulting services, with Lindsey Marchant becoming a partner in 2026.
Kessler is a nurse and Certified HIPAA Professional. She previously served as Board Chair of the American Association of Post-Acute Care Nursing, was recognized as a Central Penn Business Journal Woman of Influence recipient, and is a frequent speaker in the senior living services industry.
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