Aegis Living Founder Dwayne J. Clark Announces CEO Transition as President Dirk Burghartz Succeeds Him on the Company's 30th Anniversary

SEATTLE, Sept. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Aegis Living has announced a planned leadership succession that will unfold over the coming year.

Dwayne J. Clark, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Aegis Living, has led the company since its founding in 1997. On July 27, 2027, the 30^th anniversary of the company's founding, Clark will transition out of the CEO role, handing the current President Dirk Burghartz the dual role of President and Chief Executive Officer. Additionally, Derek Doke, the current Chief Financial Officer, will assume the expanded role of Chief Financial Officer and Chief Investment Officer. Clark will become the Executive Chairman, remaining actively engaged in the company's vision, culture, and long-term strategy.

A Founder's Reflection

"When I started, I wanted to build something extraordinary — the finest staff, the highest quality of care, the most beautiful communities, and a culture unlike anything our industry had seen," said Clark. "I can say with tremendous pride that we accomplished that goal — not because of me, but because of the incredible people who chose to build Aegis with me."

Clark added: "I am not going away, and I am not really retiring. What I am doing is entrusting Aegis to the next generation of leaders so this company can thrive for another 30 years and beyond."

The Next Generation of Leadership

Burghartz joined Aegis Living in 2025 as President, after a distinguished career in hospitality and operations with companies like Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, and has spent the past year partnering closely with Clark on strategy, community operations, and growth.

"Dwayne built Aegis into a company that stands alone in our industry," said Burghartz. "It is the honor of my career to be entrusted with the next chapter. Our commitment is simple: protect what makes Aegis extraordinary. Residents, families, and team members can expect the same culture, the same standards, and the same relentless pursuit of excellence."

A Company That Redefined an Industry

Under Clark, Aegis Living has operated over 60 communities over the past 29 years and pioneered a hospitality-driven model of senior living, assisted living, and memory care that has redefined the category nationally.

Aegis Living has been recognized across every dimension of its operation: architecture, sustainability, and design honors for its communities; continued recognition as one of the Best Places to Work in America; and culinary awards for its restaurant-quality dining program.

Clark has received numerous lifetime achievement awards in the senior living industry. He is also a nationally bestselling author; an executive producer of film and documentary projects; and an in-demand keynote speaker on the future of aging. He is also the founder and host of the annual EPIC conference, Aegis Living's invitation-only leadership and longevity summit, which has hosted speakers such as President Bill Clinton, Sharon Stone, Kevin Bacon, Terry Crews, and Deepak Chopra.

Continuity Through the Transition

Clark will remain CEO while transferring day-to-day executive responsibilities to Burghartz and Doke into Q2 of 2027. He will spend much of the year visiting Aegis communities across the West Coast, meeting with residents, families, and team members.

"Aegis is not just a company to me — it is my life's work," Clark said. "Watching Dirk, Derek, and this incredible team lead Aegis into its next chapter is the greatest gift a founder could ask for."

About Aegis Living

Founded in 1997, Aegis Living is a national leader in luxury assisted living, memory care, and lifestyle communities for older adults, operating 37 communities across Washington, California, and Nevada, with additional communities in development. Since its founding, Aegis Living has served more than 60,000 residents and families. Learn more at www.aegisliving.com.

About Dwayne J. Clark

Dwayne J. Clark is the Founder and incoming Executive Chairman of Aegis Living and one of the most influential voices in senior living. His personal story — from childhood poverty to building one of the country's most acclaimed senior living companies — has been featured across national media. He serves on multiple boards and is actively engaged in longevity research, filmmaking, and advocacy for aging with dignity. Clark is relocating to Scottsdale, Arizona, with his wife Terese.

SOURCE Aegis Living