Program Director

Lead year-round recreation, adventure, and guest programs in the Rockies while inspiring teams and creating unforgettable experiences.

POSITION SUMMARY:

This position supports the work of the YMCA of the Rockies – Snow Mountain Ranch, a mission‑driven family and group conference and retreat center, as well as a residential summer camp serving more than 50,000 guests annually. The Program Director oversees the planning, development, and administration of year‑round programs and recreational activities for guests of all ages. This role includes the supervision, training, and support of both year‑round benefited staff and seasonal employees, ensuring high‑quality, safe, and mission‑aligned program experiences that foster community and personal growth.

• Bachelor’s degree in Recreation, Education, or related field preferred.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in camps, education, or recreation.
• At least 3 years in a management or supervisory role.
• Experience developing and managing large‑scale budgets.
• Current CPR and First Aid certifications required;
  Lifeguard certification preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Publisher) and database management.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to communicate clearly in spoken and written English.
• Operational knowledge of challenge courses, aquatic facilities, and Nordic Ski operations.
• Highly organized, detail‑oriented, and dependable.
• Demonstrates sound judgment and decision‑making skills.
• Self‑directed, adaptable, and able to manage multiple priorities.
• Enthusiasm for continuous program development and innovation.
• Maintains a positive, problem‑solving attitude under pressure.
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, evenings, and holidays.
• Must possess a valid U.S. driver’s license with an acceptable driving record and comply with YMCA driving policies.
• Must have the physical stamina to perform duties in varied work environments.

• Lead, motivate, and supervise a year‑round staff of 5–8 employees, providing support, guidance, training, and evaluations.
• Oversee up to 90 seasonal staff and volunteers, ensuring high performance and alignment with YMCA values.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and collaborative team culture.
• Direct and administer all guest‑facing programs, including Adventure Activities, Aquatics, Crafts, Evening Events, Family‑Programs, Historical Programs, Library, Outdoor Education, Recreation, and Winter Programming.
• Manage multiple facilities to ensure smooth daily operations, including craft shop, fields, playgrounds, recreation center, reservoir, ropes courses, swimming pool, and other program areas.
• Coordinate with concessionaire partners to deliver specialized offerings such as horseback riding, dog sledding, massage, and downhill ski rentals.
• Implement and oversee special events that enrich the guest experience.
• Develop, manage, and monitor an annual budget of over $1.3 million, ensuring financial goals and constraints are met.
• Establish performance tracking systems to evaluate departmental effectiveness and address underperforming areas.
• Manage risk and ensure compliance with all safety, health, and child protection policies.
• Maintain aquatic safety standards and staff certifications to minimize risk in pool operations.
• Collaborate with philanthropy and development teams to advance strategic goals.
• Align all programs and staff activities with the YMCA’s mission and strategic plan.
• Develop and execute annual operating plans, including measurable goals and outcomes.
• Establish partnerships within the YMCA network and external communities to strengthen programming and reputation.
• Support employee training initiatives such as Multinational Leadership Training, Y101, and Navigators.
• Use creative, mission‑aligned ideas to continuously improve and diversify program offerings.