Retirement village manager judged top leader

Wayne Thompson and Simon Challies.

It's been quite a year for the manager of Jane Winstone Retirement Village in Whanganui.

Wayne Thompson started the job just after the June floods last year - with a civil defence emergency.

During the year the village has been extended by the additions of a hospital and a dementia unit, and it has 25 per cent more staff.

Now Mr Thompson has been judged Ryman Healthcare's Leader of the Year at the aged care company's annual awards.

He is extremely kind, never too busy to listen and a supportive and inspirational leader, Ryman managing director Simon Challies said.

"His door is always open to staff, residents, relatives, visitors - whoever needs his time."

It has been a year with many highs and lows, Mr Thompson said, and he praised his "incredible team" and "wonderful residents".

Jane Winstone Retirement Village had more than 200 residents. It's one of 30 retirement villages owned by Ryman Healthcare.