Program Director

The Program Experience Director at YMCA Camp Carter is responsible for the oversight and coordination of all weekend and weekday camp retreats, encompassing activity programming, dining services, community and special events, and challenge course programming. This role ensures each guest experience aligns with YMCA values and provides unforgettable memories. The Director collaborates across multiple departments to ensure smooth operations, high guest satisfaction, and a safe, engaging, and well-maintained environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Retreat & Program Management: Lead and oversee all aspects of weekend and weekday camp retreats, including scheduling, staffing, and executing activities, dining services, and challenge course sessions. Ensure a seamless, engaging, and welcoming experience for all participants.
• Activity Programming: Develop and implement a variety of outdoor and indoor activities to cater to diverse participant groups. Programming includes team-building exercises, adventure courses, nature programs, recreational sports, and specialized challenge course activities that foster growth, teamwork, and enjoyment.
• Challenge Course Development: Design, maintain, and oversee challenge course programming to provide safe and engaging experiences that encourage personal growth and team-building. Ensure facilitators are trained and certified, and regularly inspect equipment for safety compliance.
• Dining Services Coordination: Collaborate with the dining services team to ensure meals are nutritious, timely, and accommodate various dietary needs. Oversee the dining experience to maintain high standards of quality and service.
• Community & Special Events: Plan and execute community outreach and special events, partnering with local organizations and vendors to enhance variety and quality. Ensure events are impactful and provide positive experiences for participants.
• Guest Experience: Act as the primary point of contact for guests during retreats, addressing inquiries, gathering feedback, and resolving any challenges. Maintain the highest level of customer service and satisfaction.
• Risk Management & Safety: Implement and enforce all safety protocols and risk management strategies for programs, including challenge courses. Regularly inspect facilities, equipment, and activity setups to ensure safety and compliance with YMCA standards.
• Cleanliness and Maintenance: Perform necessary duties to maintain the cleanliness and upkeep of camp facilities, ensuring a welcoming and well-maintained environment for campers and staff.
• Budget & Financial Oversight: Assist in managing program and retreat budgets, allocating resources effectively to meet financial goals while maintaining program quality.
• Staff Leadership: Lead, mentor, and train program and retreat staff, ensuring they deliver excellent service in line with YMCA values. Manage team schedules, providing staff with resources and guidance to facilitate various activities, including challenge courses.
• Collaboration & Coordination: Work closely with the Vice President of Camping Services and other departments, such as maintenance, food services, and guest services, to ensure seamless and integrated retreat and program operations.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Recreation, Hospitality Management, Outdoor Education, or a related field.
• Experience: 3-5 years in camp management, event management, or hospitality, with a focus on retreats, camps, or community events, including experience in challenge course programming.
• Skills:
• Strong leadership and organizational skills, with the ability to multitask and manage multiple priorities.
• Expertise in activity programming, challenge course facilitation, guest services, and event coordination.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to build relationships with guests, staff, and community partners.
• Proficiency in budget management and resource allocation.
• Adaptability and problem-solving skills in a dynamic environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.

Certifications

• CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications (or ability to obtain upon hire).
• Certification or training in challenge course facilitation, waterfront activities, or other outdoor recreation areas is highly preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting up to 50 pounds, bending, standing, and working outdoors for extended periods.
• Flexibility to work weekends, holidays, and non-traditional hours based on retreat and camp schedules.

Personal Characteristics

• Commitment to the YMCA’s mission and values, focusing on service, community engagement, and guest satisfaction.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, to effectively convey the vision and goals of YMCA Camp Carter.