Job Description

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