Director of Camps (Youth Camps and Recreational Soccer Programs) at Portland Timbers
Job Description
The Director of Camps is responsible for the strategic vision, operational excellence, and long-term growth of all youth soccer camps and adult recreational soccer initiatives. This role oversees year-round programming, staff leadership, budget management, community partnerships, and brand development. The Director ensures that every camp and league experience reflects the organization’s commitment to high-quality coaching, youth development, safety, and community engagement.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Program Development
- Develop and execute a long-term strategic plan for all youth camps and adult soccer programs, aligning with organizational goals and growth priorities.
- Expand and enhance camp curriculum to ensure it promotes skill-building, teamwork, sportsmanship, and a positive learning environment.
- Identify new program offerings, partnerships, and revenue opportunities to strengthen the organization’s year-round presence.
Operational Oversight
- Oversee all logistical operations for camps and adult leagues, including scheduling, registration systems, facility coordination, equipment procurement, and on-site execution.
- Lead and refine operational processes to ensure efficiency, safety, and exceptional participant experiences.
Staff Leadership & Development
- Build, manage, and mentor a high-performing seasonal and full-time staff team, including coaches, assistants, and support personnel.
- Oversee recruitment, hiring, onboarding, training, and performance evaluation for all camp and league staff.
- Plan and schedule and tract time of Camps Staff for all camps and events.
- Foster a culture of professionalism, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Budgeting & Financial Management
- Develop, manage, and forecast annual budgets for all camp and adult soccer programs.
- Ensure cost-effective operations and optimal resource allocation.
- Analyze financial performance and implement strategies to increase profitability and sustainability.
Community & Partnership Engagement
- Build and maintain strong relationships with schools, community organizations, sponsors, and local partners to drive participation and visibility.
- Represent the organization at community events, partner meetings, and public-facing activities.
Marketing, Branding & Communications
- Oversee marketing strategy for all camps and adult programs, including digital campaigns, email communications, and promotional partnerships.
- Direct social media strategy for PTFC Camps, including content planning, brand voice, and engagement growth.
- Collaborate with internal marketing teams to ensure cohesive brand representation.
Safety, Compliance & Risk Management
- Implement and enforce safety protocols, emergency procedures, and risk mitigation strategies to ensure the well-being of all participants and staff.
- Ensure compliance with all organizational, league, and facility policies.
Adult Soccer League Leadership
- Provide oversight of the Adult Recreational Soccer League at Providence Park, including team organization, referee scheduling, league rules, and event operations.
- Develop long-term strategies to grow participation and enhance the league experience.
Cross-Department Collaboration
- Partner with Sponsorship, Ticketing, Community Engagement, and other departments to support events, activations, and shared initiatives.
- Ensure alignment between camp programming and broader organizational goals.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Sports Management, Education, Business Administration, or related field or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- 5–7+ years of experience in sports programming, youth development, or event operations, with at least 3 years in a leadership or director-level role preferred.
- Demonstrated success in program development, staff management, and budget oversight.
- Strong understanding of youth sports best practices, positive coaching methodologies, and youth player development.
- Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
- Experience managing a large part-time staff.
- Ability to work evenings, weekends, and extended hours during peak seasons.
Physical Requirements
Because this role includes on-site camp and league operations, the Director must be able to:
- Stand and walk for extended periods during camp sessions and league events.
- Lift, carry, and move equipment up to 30–40 lbs as needed for camp or event setup.
- Work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, and rain.
- Move quickly and safely across soccer fields, stadium environments, and uneven surfaces.
- Occasionally assist with on-field demonstrations or light physical activity.
- Maintain the stamina required for long event days and high-energy youth environments.
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