Sail Charlevoix Program Director

Email Resume to info@sailcharlevoix.org

Our Culture

Our Sail Charlevoix Adult & Junior Sailing Program fosters a collaborative, passionate, and fun work environment. We value innovation, community engagement, and a love for sailing. Our team is dedicated to positively impacting the lives of our sailors and the broader Lake Charlevoix community.

The Lake Charlevoix Mariners & Sail Charlevoix

The Lake Charlevoix Mariners, a respected 501(c3) organization with a 40-year legacy, seeks a visionary Program Director to lead and grow its Sail Charlevoix Adult & Junior Sailing Program into the future. 

As the Program Director, you will oversee our Sail Charlevoix programs in beautiful Boyne City and Charlevoix, Michigan. These programs typically consist of 350+ student sessions between June through August and range from a traditional junior learn-to-sail program to advanced sailing/racing and limited adult programming. Together with a dedicated Board of Directors, the Program Director will play a vital role in shaping the future of sailing in our region, our expansion plans, and maintaining our reputation for excellence in sailing instruction.

The ideal candidate will be a passionate advocate for sailing education and committed to nurturing the next generation of sailors and leaders. This role provides a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on our waterfront communities by advancing our mission of providing accessible and exceptional sailing experiences to all. We envision a long-term commitment, but Sail Charlevoix is open to tailoring the position to suit the right candidate.

The candidate would be expected to participate in most, if not all, of the following: 

Off-Season Responsibilities – Part-Time

Some of the off-season responsibilities can be done remotely. Portions of tasks requiring on-site participation during the off-season can be delegated. On-site participation would be required during the season (June - August) and several weeks on either side.

• Recruiting and hiring 10+ seasonal instructors 

• Develop and implement personal improvement plans for instructors

• Advertising Sail Charlevoix via nearby schools and other appropriate outlets using a well-established procedure

• Maintaining powerboat and trailer registrations with Michigan SOS

• Monitoring and reporting on proactive sail and powerboat seasonal maintenance and needed repairs, including in-season

• Supervising and participating in pre and post-season program setup and breakdown

• Reporting to the LCM board at regular board meetings

• Participate in board-appointed committees as required

• Establish and maintain strong relationships with the sailing community, yacht clubs, and supporters

• Participate in marketing efforts, fundraising, and outreach activities as necessary

In-Season Responsibilities – Full-Time

• Managing youth learn-to-sail, race, and growing but limited adult sailing programs

• Managing the Junior Instructor program

• Providing on-water support and supervision

• Overseeing the development of lesson plans and preparation for on and off-the-water instruction

• Daily supervision of seasonal instructors, including scheduling, performance, schedule change requests, and time off

• Ensuring a safe working and learning environment, including boats and equipment

• Processing all accident and injury reports

• Conducting weekly and daily safety measures

• Managing events and regattas

• Serving as the primary contact with parents during the season

• Mentoring and organizing volunteers

• Instructing and filling in for instructors as necessary

• Reporting to LCM personnel committee weekly about program operations

Qualifications and Skills

Required

• 2-4 years experience as a Program Director in a sailing school or dinghy racing program

• Level 1 US Sailing Small Boat Instructor Certification (Level 2 preferred)

• Experience managing young employees and working with children

• Experience in Race Committee work (RC boat, course management, scoring, protests/judging)

• Small powerboat driving competency and appropriate licensing

• Current First Aid/CPR certification

• Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills

• Proficiency in basic computer applications and Google Drive

Preferred

• Knowledge of general boat maintenance & repair

• Safe Powerboat Handling Instructor Certification

• Experience in curriculum development and instructional design

• Familiarity with grant writing and fundraising

• Lifeguard certification

Additional Requirements

• Successful completion of a background check

• Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends and evenings during peak season

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50+ pounds

Growth Opportunities

• Develop and implement new sailing programs

• Attend professional development conferences and workshops

• Contribute to the strategic direction of the organization

Perks

• Access to sailing equipment and facilities during off-hours

• Opportunity to participate in local and regional sailing events

• Flexible work schedule during off-season

Diversity and Inclusion Statement

Lake Charlevoix Mariners is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives to apply. We believe that a diverse team enhances our ability to serve our community and fulfill our mission.

Additional Information

• This is a year-round position with time off in the fall and winter. The Program Director should reside locally for onsite work from May to August and could work remotely the rest of the year.

• Contract term and performance evaluation details to be discussed

• Salary based on experience

Key Performance Indicators

Success in this role will be measured by:

• Participant enrollment and retention rates

• Staff satisfaction and retention

• Program safety record

• Budget management and financial sustainability of programs

• Community engagement and partnerships developed

• May include other factors as they arise