Director of Conference and Retreat Center

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title: Conference Center Director

Department: Conference and Retreat Center

Reports to: Executive Director

Location: Hands In 4 Youth, West Milford, NJ

Job Type: Full-Time Exempt

Job Overview:

Hands In 4 Youth Inc., established in 1924, is a not-for-profit organization that provides year-round educational programs and seasonal summer camp for underserved youth. We are looking for a full-time Director of Conference located at our 250-acre facility, Camp Vacamas, in West Milford, NJ. The Conference and Retreat Center Director oversees our onsite facilities and programming for youth and adult groups interested in team building, leadership training and outdoor adventure experiences, with that revenue used to support the agency’s mission-driven work. We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Director to lead in delivering exceptional guest experiences and managing all aspects of conference operations. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, a passion for customer service, and a proven track record in events management. This role requires a strategic thinker who can effectively negotiate contracts, manage budgets, and drive event marketing initiatives to enhance our center's reputation and profitability.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Oversee the daily operations of the center, ensuring high standards of guest services and client satisfaction.
• Manage and promote the Conference Center, including facility rentals, overnight retreats, corporate events, and school field trips.
• Identify, develop and implement marketing strategies to attract diverse clients and maximize revenue of the Center.
• Build strong relationships with clients to encourage repeat business and referrals.
• Cultivate and manage partnerships with educational institutions, corporate entities, and community organizations to increase visibility and drive revenue growth.
• Negotiate contracts and agreements with clients that align with HI4Y’s mission and financial goals, fostering sustainable relationships.
• Negotiate contracts with vendors and suppliers to secure favorable terms for the center.

· Manage phone, email, and web inquiries and ensure timely responses.

· Train, supervise, and mentor staff to deliver exceptional customer service and uphold company standards.

• Collaborate with HI4Y staff in scheduling onsite Conference groups to ensure availability of space and support staff.
• Lead the recruitment, training, and scheduling of staff to support operational goals.
• Foster a positive, client-focused team culture that delivers exceptional service.

Requirements

• Proven experience in events management or a related field, with a focus on banquet services preferred.
• Strong negotiation skills with the ability to manage vendor relationships effectively.
• Exceptional customer service skills with a commitment to exceeding guest expectations.
• Proficient in budgeting and financial management related to event planning.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to work flexible hours as needed for events, including evenings and weekends.
• A background in restaurant management or hospitality is a plus.

Qualifications:

• 3-5 years of leadership experience.
• Proven success in marketing, business development, and revenue generation.
• Strong leadership and team management skills with the ability to motivate and guide staff.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities with strong attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint); experience with CRM or event management software is a plus.
• Flexibility to work variable hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $45,000.00 - $55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Evenings as needed
• Weekends as needed

Ability to Relocate:

• West Milford, NJ 07480: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $45,000 - $55,000