Program Director

Ferncliff is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located just ten miles west of Little Rock, Arkansas. We were founded in 1937 as a place for youth and adults to gather and experience creation in community with one another

Ferncliff Mission Statement: As an expression of God's love, we welcome people into a life of caring for Creation, others and themselves.

There is a lot going on at Ferncliff Over the years we have grown into a multi-faceted organization that has branched in many ways beyond a typical camp and conference center. Today we are a:

• Summer Camp
• Retreat and Conference Center
• Nature Preschool
• Disaster Assistance Center
• Good360 Community Distribution Center

The ideal candidate for Ferncliff's Program Director role is a creative, energetic, mission-driven leader with a deep passion for outdoor ministry, and transformative program experiences. They are an enthusiastic planner and skilled organizer who thrives in a collaborative environment, bringing strong vision alongside practical follow-through.

This person excels at cultivating meaningful relationships with campers, guests, staff, churches and partners, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere consistent with Ferncliff's values. They are comfortable leading teams, mentoring seasonal staff, and coordinating a wide range of programs from summer camp and retreats to community initiatives and special events.

The ideal candidate combines excellent communication skills, a commitment to safety and accessibility, and the ability to adapt programs to meet the needs of diverse participants. They demonstrate strong problem-solving abilities, a positive spirit, and a heart for service. Above all, they see Ferncliff as a place where people grow, connect, and experience renewal and they are eager to design and lead programs that support that mission.

General Responsibility: To plan, coordinate, supervise and evaluate Ferncliff's camp programs. This includes residential camp, day camp, contract camps, off season camps and special events.

• Maintain financial oversight of all related line items proposing budgets and adhering to the approved budgets.
• Oversee the recruiting, hiring, training and managing of staff in the program department.
• Oversee the ordering, receiving and inventory of equipment and supplies for Ferncliff's program operations.
• Plan, implement and evaluate Ferncliff programs including residential camp, day camp and off season programs.
• Coordinate and communicate with other staff members to maintain overall quality of provided programs for our guest groups.
• Communicate with maintenance staff repairs needed in a timely manner.
• Serve as an "on call" staff member during programs at Ferncliff being available to problem solve and address their needs.
• Continue to look for ways to enhance our programs through technology, service, facilities, programming, etc…
• Work to make our programs more environmentally sustainable.
• Keep current on the latest trends, technology, and best practices for camps, retreat centers and non-profits in general.
• Provide for camp staff professional, and personal development.
• Other duties as assigned.

Relationships and Accountability:

• Directly accountable to the Chief Operation Officer (COO).
• Oversee Assistant Program Director and other seasonal program staff.
• Develop relationships and attend meetings of Presbytery and appropriate committees.
• Develop relationships related to attracting non-profit and faith based guest groups as well as local chambers of commerce and other event hosting communities.

Qualifications:

• Person of Christian conviction, committed to the ongoing mission and programs of Ferncliff and the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) as a whole.
• Demonstrated theological understanding of the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) as it relates to Christian nurture and outdoor ministry in the camp and conference setting.
• Demonstrated skills in developing and producing effective camp programs.
• Demonstrated skills in staff training and supervision, including the ability to develop close working relationships with staff.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly and concisely in writing and to speak effectively before groups.
• Demonstrated ability to administer websites and many forms of social media.

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Elective Vision insurance
• Elective Dental insurance

Experience level:

• 5 years

Weekly day range:

• Monday to Friday
• Rotating weekends
• Weekend availability

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Little Rock, AR 72223: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person