Lead Program Manager — Volunteer & Community Impact

Best Buddies Int. Inc; Newark (NJ); On-site; USD 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefits package

Job summary

Best Buddies International in Newark, NJ seeks a Lead, Program Manager to drive our school and community‑based leadership programs. You will recruit, train, and support volunteer committees, build partnerships, and ensure a high‑quality volunteer experience.

The role emphasizes engaging with IDD individuals, managing multiple relationships, and coordinating events with chapter leaders and the Director, Programs. Occasional travel and weekend work may be required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or 3-4 years relevant experience in volunteer and committee management; Best Buddies program experience a plus.
• Must be comfortable engaging with people with IDD, including youth and adults.
• Must be adaptable and able to quickly and effectively develop and balance multiple relationships and get results from a variety of people.
• Basic project and time management skills.
• Exhibit strong oral and written communication skills; Ability to adapt & convey; Influence.
• Ability to enhance, improve, and change processes and procedures; resolve tactical & operational issues.
• Exhibit strong initiative, drive for results, and self-assessment skills.
• The ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• A clear understanding of multiple communication platforms and proficient use of social media.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Must be willing and able to travel frequently, use personal cell phone, and work evenings and weekends as necessary to accomplish job responsibilities.
• Access to an automobile with applicable insurance or other reliable transportation.

Responsibilities

• Develop and facilitate trainings for volunteer roles to engage volunteers and advance the mission.
• Recruit and manage volunteer committees to implement trainings and manage chapters.
• Evaluate chapter engagement and provide opportunities for ongoing training.
• Develop and lead community trainings to promote awareness and engagement.
• Communicate expectations for state events and programmatic initiatives.
• Use program analysis to design support plans for growth and training needs.
• Ensure participation from all chapters in leadership conferences and events.
• Oversee state matches and cultivate corporate chapters.
• Support adolescents/young adults transitioning from school to work with families and employers.
• Facilitate educational and vocational groups to build social, vocational, and workplace skills.

Skills

Volunteer management

Public speaking

Communication

Relationship building

Project management

Social media

Teamwork

Independent work

Time management

Adaptability

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Salesforce

Microsoft Outlook

Job description

Best Buddies International in Newark, NJ seeks a Lead, Program Manager to drive our school and community‑based leadership programs. You will recruit, train, and support volunteer committees, build partnerships, and ensure a high‑quality volunteer experience.

The role emphasizes engaging with IDD individuals, managing multiple relationships, and coordinating events with chapter leaders and the Director, Programs. Occasional travel and weekend work may be required.