Program Manager - Leadership Development

National FFA Organization; Indianapolis (IN); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The National FFA Organization seeks a Program Manager – Leadership Development in Indianapolis, IN. This role is essential for coordinating and enhancing national leadership programs supporting FFA members. Responsibilities include managing extensive student leadership programs, overseeing logistics and budgets, and collaborating with diverse teams to create impactful experiences.

Applicants should have a Bachelor's degree and at least three years of related experience. Strong project management and communication skills are crucial for success in this hybrid working environment, which may require evening or weekend work.

Qualifications

• Minimum of three years of professional experience in project/event coordination/management.
• Previous leadership and/or supervisory experience preferred.
• Prior experience with student organizations or agricultural education preferred.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and implement national leadership programs.
• Oversee logistics, timelines, and budgets.
• Engage with diverse stakeholders and provide exceptional service.

Skills

Project management capabilities

Interpersonal communication skills

Problem-solving abilities

Customer service engagement

Education

Bachelor’s degree in event coordination, hospitality or related fields

Job description

Overview

JOB SUMMARY The Program Manager – Leadership Development serves as a key member of the National FFA Organization’s leadership development team, with primary responsibility for the coordination, implementation, and continuous improvement of national leadership programs that support the personal and professional growth of FFA members in grades 5–12 and collegiate students. This role directly supports the organization’s vision by cultivating the next generation of leaders through engaging, educational, and student-centered experiences. The Program Manager will oversee and contribute to the delivery of a variety of high-impact programs, which could include Washington Leadership Conference, State Officer Programs, National Officer Selection Process, Member Leadership Series, Convention Arena programming, and FFA’s online learning platform. This position requires strong project management capabilities and a solutions-focused mindset, including handling all logistics, timelines, and budgets associated with assigned programs. The role involves working closely with a program partner to oversee all supplies and materials, processes, and seasonal staff management to execute modern, engaging learning experiences.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Implement, and evaluate leadership development programs that align with the National FFA Organization’s mission and educational standards.
• Collaborate with team members, supervisors, and cross-functional teams to ensure the successful execution of leadership initiatives.
• Direct the planning and delivery of national-level programming.
• Monitor, analyze and address program performance using data and participant feedback.
• Execute program logistics and communication with trainers/volunteers.
• Manage pre-event communication with vendors, stakeholders and staff.
• Communicate and organize all facilitator payroll notices internally.
• Administer FFA’s online learning platform, ensuring accessibility and engagement across diverse audiences.
• Manage, collaborate and communicate the auto rental agreement with vendor(s) and staff.
• Budget management ($2 million), ensuring responsible financial practices, creating budget proposals and financial analysis to support planning and reporting.
• Onsite management of all aspects of assigned student leadership conferences including: Registration and content delivery; Participant health and safety; Student discipline and emergency management; Communication, facilitator feedback and coaching; Conference logistics.

Skills and Core Competencies

Job Knowledge

• Recruit, interview, train, and coach seasonal trainers, facilitators and volunteers.
• Develop and maintain systems that enhance coordination and communication among program staff and support teams.
• Execute and collaborate on contract negotiations with vendors and external partners.
• Manage all program logistics including scheduling, venue and travel coordination, staffing, materials preparation, and technology needs.

Work Product

• Direct resource allocation and workload assignments to maximize team efficiency.
• Plan and execute large-scale national events, including FFA’s National Convention.
• Effectively prioritize, organize, and multitask.
• Exhibit accuracy, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities.
• Demonstrate excellent project management skills.

Customer Focus

• Engage with diverse internal and external stakeholders, providing exceptional customer service.
• Represent the organization at conferences, meetings, and other events, maintaining professionalism.

Dependability

• Provide support to facilitators during travel to and from National FFA events and during events, including overnight assistance if needed.
• Perform additional tasks and responsibilities as assigned to support organizational and programmatic goals.
• Adapt to changing environments.
• Work independently and reliably in dynamic settings.

Teamwork

• Prioritize tasks effectively and contribute to a positive, collaborative, and solutions-focused team culture.
• Foster a collaborative spirit among program staff and support teams.

Communication

• Demonstrate excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Proficiency in facilitating both small and large groups.
• Represent the organization with professionalism and strong public speaking presence.

Belonging

• Fosters a welcoming, supportive, and growth-oriented environment for all FFA colleagues, students, teachers, and stakeholders.
• Promote organizational values through leadership and collaboration.
• Prioritizes staff and member well-being.
• Actively challenges prejudice and promotes inclusivity, dignity, and respect.
• Demonstrates kindness, accountability, and care for others.

Education

Bachelor’s degree required. Preferred degree in event coordination, hospitality or related fields.

Experience

• Minimum of three years of professional experience in project/event coordination/management or other relevant experience required.
• Previous leadership and/or supervisory experience preferred.
• Prior experience with student organizations, leadership training, and/or agricultural education/FFA experience preferred.

Physical Demands

Light sedentary work. May lift up to 50 pounds occasionally, push, pull or otherwise move objects. Repetitive motion. Substantial movements (motions) of the wrists, hands, and/or fingers. Employees are required to have close visual acuity to perform activities; viewing a computer terminal; extensive reading.

Work Environment

Indoor, cubicle environment. Hybrid working location. Some work is required outside of standard business hours, including evenings and weekends, to support program and events.

Travel

Frequent travel (up to 20%) is required for program delivery, site visits, and national events. Needs to be eligible for rental car privileges.

Overnight Travel

As applicable, travel will include up to three 5-10 day long conference/event on-site management.

FFA Values

Integrity: “Upfront and Honest Always” – Do what is right, all the time. Choose Courage over Comfort. Be open and Truthful. Respect: “We Before Me” – Be Considerate and Courteous. Respect differences in all interactions. Encourage and recognize others. Accountability: “Do It, Own It” – Take Initiative, do what you say you will do. Own Mistakes.