Deborah Bernier
Cheektowaga,NY
Summary
Results-driven Operations Manager with extensive experience in overseeing multidisciplinary departments. Skilled in strategic thinking, budget management, and regulatory audits, contributing to improved operational efficiencies and enhanced compliance across services.
Overview
36
36
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Operations Manager
Erie County Medical Center
Buffalo, NY
05.2009 - 02.2026
- Managed daily operations across departments including recreation, respiratory, social services, dietary, environmental services, central supply, cashier, and rehab services to ensure seamless service delivery.
- Developed and modified policies, survey preparation, created plans of correction, managed budgets, managed bed census ensured regulatory compliance, and completed regulatory audits to enhance operational standards.
- Managed recruitment, hiring, training, retention, and performance management processes.
- Established collaborative relationships with ombudsmen and administrative staff at ECMC to support effective communication and operational alignment.
- Assisted with the strategic downsizing of the existing SNF while contributing to operational, clinical, and structural decision making for the development of the new Skilled Nursing Facility.
- Knowledgeable in union contracts and experienced in working collaboratively with multiple labor unions.
Director of Rehab Services
Erie County Medical Center
Alden, New York
09.2006 - 09.2009
- Oversaw Physical, Occupational, and Speech language pathology departments.
- Ensured accurate billing and maximized reimbursement for the facility.
- Conducted recruitment, hiring, training, retention, and performance management.
Director of Rehab Services
Espiscopal Church Home
Buffalo, NY
05.1990 - 09.2006
- Held multiple roles including physical therapist, senior physical therapist, subacute clinical coordinator, and director of rehab services, contributing to comprehensive patient care and program development.
- Oversaw skilled nursing facility, adult day health care program, and outpatient program, ensuring compliance and quality of rehabilitation services.
- Managed billing and reimbursement processes, ensuring financial accuracy and support for program sustainability.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Physical Therapy
Daemen University
Amherst, NY05.1990
Associate of Science - Science
Herkimer County Community College
Herkimer, NY05.1986
Skills
- Leadership skills
- Effective communication
- Customer service skills
- Conflict resolution
Certification
Licensed Physical Therapist in New York State
Timeline
Operations Manager
Erie County Medical Center
05.2009 - 02.2026
Director of Rehab Services
Erie County Medical Center
09.2006 - 09.2009
Director of Rehab Services
Espiscopal Church Home
05.1990 - 09.2006
Bachelor of Science - Physical Therapy
Daemen University
Associate of Science - Science
Herkimer County Community College