Programs Director

Position Summary

The Programs Director is responsible for the strategic planning, daily management, and overall success of the community's recreational and guest service programs. This role oversees children's programs, after-school programming, aquatics and lifeguard operations, and the reception/front desk team, while also providing operational support to the Food & Beverage and Events departments. The Programs Director ensures a safe, engaging, and welcoming environment that enhances the resident experience and supports the resort-style atmosphere of the community.

Key Responsibilities

Programs & Guest Experience

• Plan, implement, and oversee all children's programs, youth activities, camps, and after-school programs, ensuring age-appropriate, engaging, and safe experiences.
• Develop program schedules, seasonal offerings, and special activities aligned with resident interests and community goals.
• Evaluate program participation, feedback, and outcomes to continuously improve offerings.
• Serve as a visible leader during peak programming hours and community events.

Aquatics & Lifeguard Oversight

• Oversee daily aquatics operations, including lifeguard staffing, scheduling, and performance.
• Ensure compliance with all safety standards, certifications, and emergency response protocols.
• Coordinate training, in-service sessions, and ongoing development for lifeguard staff.
• Work closely with Operations and Maintenance to ensure pool facilities meet safety and cleanliness standards.

Front Desk & Reception Operations

• Manage the reception/front desk team, ensuring exceptional first-point-of-contact service for residents and guests.
• Establish service standards, scheduling, and procedures for guest check-in, information services, and member support.
• Ensure accurate communication of programs, events, facility rules, and community policies.

Staff Leadership & Development

• Recruit, train, schedule, and supervise program staff, lifeguards, and front desk personnel.
• Foster a professional, inclusive, and service-oriented team culture.
• Conduct performance evaluations, coaching, and corrective actions as needed.
• Ensure proper staffing levels during peak seasons, school schedules, holidays, and special events.

Cross-Departmental Support

• Assist the Food & Beverage department with operational support during high-volume periods, special events, and community functions.
• Collaborate with the Events department on planning, staffing, and execution of community events, festivals, and private functions.
• Support interdepartmental communication to ensure seamless resident experiences across all amenities.

Compliance, Safety & Risk Management

• Ensure all programs and operations comply with local, state, and federal regulations, including child safety, labor laws, and aquatics standards.
• Maintain accurate records for certifications, incident reports, attendance, and program documentation.
• Enforce community policies, safety procedures, and emergency protocols.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in recreation, programs management, hospitality, or a related field, preferably in a resort, club, or community environment.
• Demonstrated experience managing children's programs, aquatics/lifeguards, and guest services.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple departments and priorities simultaneously.
• Knowledge of child safety standards, aquatics safety, and customer service best practices.
• Proficiency in scheduling software, POS or registration systems, and Microsoft Office.

Preferred Certifications

• Lifeguard Instructor, Water Safety Instructor, or Aquatics Management Certification
• CPR, First Aid, and AED Certification
• Youth Program or Camp Administration Certification

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and school breaks.
• Ability to work in both indoor and outdoor environments, including pool decks.
• Ability to stand, walk, and actively supervise activities for extended periods.

Performance Measures

• Resident and family satisfaction with programs and guest services
• Program participation and engagement levels
• Safety, compliance, and incident management outcomes
• Staff performance, training completion, and retention
• Cross-departmental collaboration effectiveness

Pay: $52, $62,841.69 per year

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Paid time off
• Parental leave

Work Location: In person