Faces of Baptcare #47 | Meet Adam Jochim

Adam Jochim is a much-treasured member of our community, particularly his Peninsula View family where he currently works as the Residential Care and Services Manager. When we asked his colleagues for some words about Adam they agreed that “he is approachable, not intimidating despite his seniority, a good listener and understanding of the personal circumstances of the staff he works alongside.” You can read more about the wonderful Adam below.

What is your current role and what does it involve day to day?

I am the Residential Care and Services Manager (RCSM) at Baptcare’s Peninsula View. This role is very diverse and that is why it is so attractive to me. Aged care managers have a great opportunity and responsibility to influence the workings of aged care homes. I see my role as being a leader and mentor with the larger part of the role dedicated to staff and resident liaison/support, as well as all things related to governance and standards of care. I feel personally responsible for Peninsula View Community including how it is perceived by all stakeholders and the close community itself.

How long have you been working within the Aged Care team at Baptcare?

I will celebrate five years at the end of this month. My first four years were spent with our Karana community.

What do you like about working with Baptcare?

Since my commencement with Baptcare I often find myself so positively surprised with the quality and calibre of people we have in the business. I truly believe that Baptcare’s values and mission by default attract good people. I love the spiritual and holistic aspect of Baptcare and I feel very aligned with - and proudly represent - what Baptcare stands for.

Can you share a particularly special customer interaction you’ve had recently?

In recent months we cared for a person with whom I have worked at another aged care home for over nine years. It was rather surreal and very emotional for me to accept a new ‘relationship’ with this person, but I felt privileged to be able to assist her in her difficult journey knowing that the service we provide, and the staff we employ, are superbly caring and kind. Such moments give me more energy and drive.

Did you always want to work within the caring space and what are some other jobs you’ve performed in your career?

I have been a nurse since 1990 and I never imagined myself working in aged care, but life leads us on different - and not always planed – paths. For me, the aged care journey started in a small nursing home in Hawthorn in 1994 and I loved it from day one.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

My early dream was to become a vet and then a surgeon - luckily these dreams never eventuated.

Can you tell us something surprising about yourself?

People may be surprised to find out that I like to watch UFC Mixed Martial Arts! I still do not know why I’m attracted to watching this considering my gentle attitude to life.

We’ve heard that you’re a baker in your spare time. Can you tell us what inspired this hobby?

Yes! Three years ago, my friend gave me a jar of culture (bread starter) and since that time I have mastered a good recipe of rye bread and I bake bread twice a week. I love the smell of dough and freshly baked bread. Bread baking is great as you can share this simple food with others.

We’ve also heard that you’re a keen water sports fan – in particular, windsurfing?

Yes, I have been windsurfing since 1987 when I first watched this sport in action. My first windsurfing board was a DIY kit. Windsurfing is my passion and windy days can be restless for me if I cannot go out on the water.

Do you have a favourite quote or motto in life?

I do not have any specific quotes that I live by, but I try to read the Bible and get my inspiration from there. The Wisdom of Sirach is my go-to part as it provides clear and simple messages on how to perform good deeds in the world.

How would your friends describe you?

I feel that my friends would see me as happy and easy going. I am rather solitary in my life. I am most comfortable and happy in the company of my wife and children.

Do you have a mentor or idol?

Not really, and the older I get the more selective and cautious I become in such areas. Recently I have been following/listening to the scientist John Lennox who, in my opinion, has great views on today’s world and its complexities.

Who would you like to sit next to at a dinner party?

I would like to be at any dinner party where the Branford Marsalis Quartet is playing. I find them to be the best jazz group ever.