Executive Director-Camp Ministries

Job Summary

We are seeking a passionate and dynamic Executive Director to lead our Camp Ministries, inspiring youth and fostering a vibrant community rooted in faith, growth, and service. This leadership role involves overseeing all aspects of camp programming, staff management, safety protocols, and spiritual development initiatives. The Executive Director will serve as the primary visionary, ensuring that every camper and staff member experiences a transformative and joyful environment aligned with our mission. The ideal candidate will bring energetic leadership, excellent organizational skills, and a deep commitment to youth development and Christian values.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: CAMPING AND RETREAT MINISTRIES

The New York Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church is seeking a full-time Executive Director of our Camping and Retreat Ministries.

The Executive Director of Camping and Retreat Ministries (“CRM”) is the on-site Director of Quinipet Camp and Retreat Center, a year-round facility on Shelter Island, NY with oversight and support for Kingswood Campsite, a seasonal campsite in Hancock, NY. The CRM provides a sacred space apart from the everyday world where all are welcomed to experience God’s creation. CRM encourages Christian community and spiritual growth through overnight summer camp and year round retreats, and works to develop and nurture the leaders of tomorrow. The Executive Director guides staff and volunteers in partnership with the Camps Governing Board to accomplish overall goals.

Principal Duties and Tasks include: Oversight of two locations in New York state; administration and management of regular and seasonal staff, and budgets and financial records; maintenance and management of properties and facilities; marketing to and recruitment of clientele and staff; development of long term goals for expansion of all programs; maintain risk and regulatory government and UMC standards; attendance and participation in monthly Governing Board and Task Force meetings, and New York Annual Conference meeting in June.

Applicants must possess a Bachelor’s Degree (Master’s degree preferred) and have at least 5-10 years of experience in managing a Christian camping environment or related experience. Member of a United Methodist Church (preferred) or possess significant understanding of UM doctrine and polity. Commitment to working in a Christian environment. Acceptance of and ability to communicate with people of various religious affiliations, ethnicities, genders, ages, and differing abilities is vitally important. Excellent computer skills, including working knowledge of QuickBooks. Experience with CampMinder and Gazebo registration systems is a plus. Must agree to live on-site, year-round at Camp Quinipet, on Shelter Island, NY. Some travel within New York Annual Conference area is expected.

A three bedroom, two bath, 1400 sq. ft. house and basic utilities are included in the compensation package, which also includes health insurance, pension, and other employee benefits.

To learn more about the New York Annual Conference please visit us at: www.nyac.com

To apply, please send a cover letter, resume

Duties

• Provide strategic direction for all camp ministries, ensuring alignment with organizational mission and values.
• Lead recruitment, training, supervision, and evaluation of camp staff and volunteers, fostering a team-oriented culture focused on safety, engagement, and spiritual growth.
• Oversee the planning and execution of diverse youth programs including outdoor activities, arts, theater experiences, tutoring sessions, and youth group activities.
• Ensure compliance with all safety protocols including first aid procedures, CPR/AED operation, behavior management policies, and child supervision standards.
• Manage daily camp operations such as scheduling activities, maintaining facilities, coordinating transportation, and overseeing outdoor work environments.
• Cultivate positive relationships with campers’ families and community partners to enhance program outreach and support.
• Promote a safe environment by implementing child protection policies, conducting regular safety drills, and maintaining accurate records of incidents or emergencies.

Experience

• Proven experience working with children in educational or recreational settings; prior camp experience is highly preferred.
• Demonstrated leadership in youth development programs or similar roles involving team supervision and program management.
• Strong background in classroom management, behavior management strategies, and childhood development principles.
• Certification in first aid, CPR/AED operation (including AED), child safety protocols, and relevant certifications in special education or Christian counseling are highly desirable.
• Experience facilitating youth group activities or theater-based programs that promote creativity and teamwork.
• Outdoor work experience including supervision of outdoor activities such as hiking or sports is beneficial.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to motivate staff and connect effectively with children of diverse backgrounds.

Join us to lead a vibrant ministry that transforms lives through faith-based programming! We’re committed to empowering our team members with the tools they need to succeed while creating memorable experiences for every camper.

Pay: $79,000.00 - $81,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Parental leave
• Retirement plan

Work Location: In person

Salary : $79,000 - $81,000