Executive Director of Camping Services

Merrimack Valley YMCA; North Reading (MA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Merrimack Valley YMCA is seeking an Executive Director to lead the Camping Services Branch, overseeing program development, staff supervision, risk management, and philanthropy across three NY camps in New Hampshire. You will manage budgets, enhance enrollment, and promote strong community relations with partner organizations and youth-serving agencies.

The role requires strategic planning, strong leadership, and a commitment to safety and high-quality facilities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Recreation Management, Hospitality, Business Administration, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of camp management or similar leadership experience in recreational/hospitality settings.
• Proven track record in program development and implementation in camp or similar environment.
• Experience in budget management and financial oversight for large-scale operations.
• Demonstrated experience in staff supervision, recruitment, training, and performance evaluation.

Responsibilities

• Oversee hiring, training, development, supervision and evaluation of Camping Services Branch staff.
• Develop and monitor the operating budget for the Camping Services Branch, achieving enrollment and expense targets.
• Develop annual operating plan aligned with association strategy for the Camping Services Branch.
• Lead philanthropy efforts, including annual campaign and special events.
• Ensure risk management, youth safety, and high-quality facilities, grounds, and equipment; manage capital projects with camp staff.
• Coordinate Board, task forces, and committees; direct volunteer activities for the Camping Services Branch.
• Represent YMCA Camps and build relationships with community partners and government entities; foster collaborations.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Strategic planning

Problem solving

Budget management

Staff supervision

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Recreation Management, Hospitality, Business Administration, or a related field

Tools

Scheduling software

Reporting tools

Communication platforms

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The Merrimack Valley YMCA owns and operates three camps in the state of New Hampshire, YMCA Camp Lawrence for boys (overnight), YMCA Camp Nokomis for girls (overnight), and YMCA Camp Otter (day coed). The Executive Director ensures successful operation of the Camping Services Branch of the Merrimack Valley YMCA, including program development, volunteer recruitment, staff supervision, facility maintenance, risk management, philanthropy, alumni and community relations, collaborations, budgeting, and financial results.OUR CULTURE:Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger, beginning with you.All employees are mandated reporters and will adhere to the requirements outlined in the Child Abuse Prevention Policy and Procedures. Per our commitment to a safe environment and youth protection, you must attend required CAP and Safety/Risk Management Trainings each year.ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:Oversees the hiring, training, development, supervision and evaluation of the Camping Services Branch staff.Develops, manages, and monitors the operating budget of the Camping Services Branch and meets or exceeds budget targets with a focus on enrollment and expense management.In alignment with the association strategic plan, develops the annual operating plan of the Camping Services Branch.Leads the philanthropy activities of the Camping Services Branch, specifically the annual campaign and special events.Responsible for overall risk management, crisis prevention, and youth safety at camps. Ensures the safety and maintenance of high quality facilities, grounds, and equipment. Manages capital projects in conjunction with camp staff.Coordinates the development of the Camping Services Branch Board, task forces, and committees. Directs the volunteer activities of the Camping Services Branch.Represents and promotes the YMCA Camps in the local community and develops positive working relationships with other organizations, businesses, and governmental entities. Develops, maintains, and models collaborative relationships with community agencies in service delivery area.Develops and directs high quality relationship-based member, alumni and program participant engagement strategies. Models relationship-building skills in all interactions with staff, volunteers, camp alumni, members, and the community. Monitors experience and works toward constant improvement.Fosters a climate of innovation to develop community and participant-focused programs which support the Y mission, goals, and strategies.Directs marketing and communication efforts for the Camping Services Branch, to effectively communicate benefit to the community.Serves as a member of Y management and supports the overall objectives of the YMCA.Performs other duties as assignedYMCA COMPETENCIES (Organizational Leader):Mission Advancement: Incorporates the Y’s mission and values into the organization’s vision and strategies. Ensures community engagement; promotes the global nature of the Y. Leads a culture of volunteerism ensuring engagement, inclusion, and ownership. Leads a culture of philanthropy.Collaboration: Advocates for and institutionalizes inclusion and diversity throughout the organization. Initiates the development of relationships with influential leaders to impact and strengthen the community. Is recognized as an inspirational community leader who navigates complex political and social circles with ease. Communicates to engage and inspire people within and outside the YMCA. Ensures that a talent management system is in place and executed effectively.Operational Effectiveness: Possesses penetrating insight and strong strategic and critical thinking skills. Invests resources in well-designed innovation initiatives. Creates a structure to deliver organization-wide results to achieve objectives. Develops and implements stewardship strategies. Determines benchmarks and ensures appropriate leadership to meet objectives.Personal Growth: Creates a learning organization. Effectively drives change by leveraging resources and creating alignment to expand organizational opportunities. Shares authority and demonstrates courage and humility. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.Required Education:- Bachelor's degree in Recreation Management, Hospitality, Business Administration, or a related field.Required Experience:- Minimum of 5 years of experience in camp management or a similar leadership role within a recreational or hospitality setting.- Proven track record of successful program development and implementation in a camp or similar environment.- Experience in budget management and financial oversight for large-scale operations.- Demonstrated experience in staff supervision and development, including recruitment, training, and performance evaluation.Required Skills and Abilities:- Strong leadership and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities effectively.- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage with diverse groups, including staff, campers, families, and community partners.- Proficiency in strategic planning and problem-solving to enhance program offerings and operational efficiency.- Ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders to foster a positive and inclusive camp environment.- Knowledge of safety and compliance regulations related to camp operations and the ability to implement best practices.- Competency in using technology and software for administrative tasks, including scheduling, reporting, and communication.