Director of Programs

We are seeking an experienced and visionary Director of Programs to oversee our LGBTQ+ outdoor wilderness trip programming and frontcountry events, volunteer-led day events and special events such as our All of the Above Trail festival. This role will be responsible for managing the development and implementation of these programs and events.

The Director of Programs will work with the Executive Team to build the strategic vision for TVOP’s LGBTQ+ outdoor adventure programming and events and, with their team, will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of program and event management, including strategic planning, budgeting, logistics, risk management, vendor management, and participant experience.

The successful candidate will bring creativity, attention to detail, a systems-focused approach, and excitement to deliver exceptional outdoor programs and events that engage and inspire participants while fostering a fun, safe, and inclusive environment.

Essential Job Duties:

Programs Strategy and Planning:

• Design programs that meet the specific needs of the LGBTQ+ community.
• Develop and execute a multi-year plan for the organization’s front and backcountry programs, including short-term and long-term goals.
• Align program strategies with both the organization’s mission and the needs of the populations that the organization serves.

Programs Development, Management, and Execution:

• Oversee the development, implementation, and evaluation of a diverse range of wilderness trips and skills-building programs, ensuring they meet quality standards and participant expectations.
• Manage programs to budget.
• Maintain, grow, and document systems, structures, and policies around programs and staff, including record-keeping for institutional knowledge.
• Continuously evaluate program effectiveness and make recommendations for improvements and/or growth inclusive of organizational JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) strategies and goals.
• Coordinate end-to-end planning for frontcountry events, including overseeing the execution and delegation of logistics, vendor conversations, permits, transportation, accommodations, and on-site operations.

Staff Leadership and Development

• Lead a team of program managers, coordinators, instructors, and seasonal staff
• Provide guidance, support, and regular performance feedback.
• Oversee the recruitment, hiring, and training of staff, ensuring they have the necessary skills, knowledge, and support to deliver high-quality programs.
• Foster a positive and collaborative work environment that promotes teamwork, community care, and professional growth.
• Support bi-directional systems of growth-oriented feedback.

JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion)

• Evaluate programs and their impact from a critically informed, intersectional, and community-oriented lens; create, adjust, and prioritize systems that support staff and participant safety.
• Authentically engage with complex, emotional, and sometimes uncomfortable JEDI conversations within the workplace.

Risk Management and Safety:

• Administer safety protocols and risk management procedures for all programs and activities
• Maintain a well-practiced emergency response protocol and conduct regular safety reviews and training to mitigate risks and promote safe programs.
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations related to wilderness trip operations.

Program Evaluation and Reporting:

• Oversee the collection and analysis of data in order to monitor and evaluate program outcomes and impact and integrate this feedback into meaningful changes.
• Prepare regular reports on program activities, progress, and outcomes for internal and external stakeholders.

Qualifications:

• Excellent leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate staff.
• Experience (5+ years) in developing and managing Outdoor Recreation programs, camps, schools, or other similar activities, preferably in a leadership role.
• Strong understanding of outdoor recreation industry trends, best practices, and safety standards.
• Desire to engage with JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion)
• Experience in strategic planning, budgeting, and program evaluation.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
• Exceptional organizational and problem-solving abilities, with a keen attention to detail. Strong ability to work within, create, and solidify organizational systems.
• Current certifications in relevant outdoor recreation disciplines (e.g. Wilderness First Aid), are desirable.

Job Location, Duration, and Benefits:

• Salary range in $70,000-$80,000
• This position is eligible for Medical Insurance, generous Paid Time Off, flexible work environment (hybrid mix of work-from-home and in-office), employer contribution to a 401k retirement plan vested after one year of employment, technology stipend, and a generous amount of outdoor gear.
• This position is in Florence, MA (office) and Halifax, VT (TVOP Basecamp). Flexible working hours and environment. The Director of Programs is expected to live within commuting distance of both of these locations. Some weekend and evening hours are required throughout the year.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY: 

TVOP does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, genetics information, disability, or status as a protected veteran. We are actively seeking to hire people who represent our community, and LGBTQ+ and BIPOC applicants are strongly encouraged to apply.

COVID-19 VACCINE POLICY: 

All employees are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by their first day of work, unless they meet a medical, disability or religious exemption and a reasonable accommodation is approved. Any COVID-19 vaccine approved by the World Health Organization (WHO) is an acceptable vaccine for the purpose of this policy. Full vaccination or an approved exemption is a condition of employment for all new employees.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $70,000.00 - $80,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Florence, MA 01062: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Preferred)

Application Question(s):

• A cover letter is required for the application of this position. Please note here that you understand without BOTH a cover letter and resume, your application will not be considered. You may submit your cover letter in the optional cover letter section in the next step of Indeed's application process.

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Florence, MA 01062