On February 1, 2018, Deke Cateau assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer at A.G. Rhodes Health & Rehab, one of Atlanta’s oldest nonprofit organizations. A.G. Rhodes provides therapy and rehabilitation services, short-term recovery and long-term care at three metro Atlanta nursing homes. Cateau brings 15+ years of long-term care industry experience to his position, and has previously served in various leadership roles with A.G. Rhodes – including Chief Operating Officer, Chief of Strategic Implementation, and Administrator of the organization’s flagship location near Grant Park.
 
A native of Trinidad, which is often referred to as a “plural society,” Cateau was born into a culture of diversity. Sometimes known as a “rainbow island” or, more fondly, a “callaloo” (a dish prepared by blending a variety of ingredients), diversity is the status quo in Trinidad. In his new role, Cateau not only represents that diversity, but also leads a workforce of approximately 600 employees serving more than 1,100 seniors each year – all of whom reflect all walks of life and a wide range of ethnicity and culture.
 
Cateau inherits a culture of compassion and respect at A.G. Rhodes that’s been ingrained since 1904, where employees treat residents as they would members of their own family. The dedicated workforce takes pride in easing the stress and difficulties that often come with aging.
 
“I am honored and humbled by this opportunity to serve A.G. Rhodes,” said Cateau. “I am eager and excited to continue the organization’s vision to transform and improve the way we provide care for our aging population.”
 
As CEO, Cateau is responsible for an operating budget of approximately $40 million. He will continue to guide the organization in its transition to an improved model of care to better serve elders, their families and the community. He draws on experience from his various roles at A.G. Rhodes since 2009, and prior to that, numerous responsibilities with Five Star Quality Care, Inc., a national senior living communities and services provider, and his prior management of a 200-unit continuing care retirement community in Savannah, Ga.