POSITION DESCRIPTION
The Camp Director is a senior leadership role within the Youth and Family Wellness Camp, reporting to the Camp Executive Director, and has direct oversight of Managers. The Director position is responsible for leading the strategic direction of their programs/services through planning and monitoring budgets, program planning and evaluation, ongoing supervision of Managers, and liaising with funders and community stakeholders.
The Camp Director is responsible for providing management, leadership and implementation of all Camp services, including Equine Programming, Sports and Recreation, Cultural and Land-Based Programming, Seasonal and Special Events, Food Services, and Facility Operations. This role ensures operational excellence, high-quality programming, safety, and cultural responsiveness across the Camp’s services. The Director works closely with community leadership and partners to deliver holistic, trauma-informed, and inclusive programming that supports First Nations youth and families.
Position Title: Camp Director
Department: Youth and Family Wellness Camp
Salary: Starting at $110,000
Term: Full-Time – 40 hours per week, irregular hours
Location: 371 Strecker Road, Kenora, ON
Reports to: Camp Executive Director
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Direct Supervisor to Managers
- Serve as the direct supervisor to Camp Managers, overseeing performance, task delegation, scheduling, and staff development
- Provide regular coaching, mentorship, and formal/informal performance evaluations, including corrective and disciplinary action as needed
- Ensure Managers receive training relevant to camp operations, including youth wellness, equine care, health and safety, trauma-informed care and culturally grounded practices
- Foster collaboration and communication through consistent participation in team meetings and by leading Manager meetings to support cross-functional planning and coordination
Program Leadership, Development and Quality Improvement
- Demonstrate expertise in all Camp programs and services, including knowledge of funding agreements, best practice documents, and related data/social and health trends related to equine, sports, recreation, and youth development
- Lead the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of culturally grounded, trauma-informed, and community-driven programming and operations
- Develop and implement programs based on community needs, cultural knowledge, and funder requirements
- Collaborate with internal departments and partner organizations to ensure smooth integration, referral pathways, and collaboration across services
- Ensure accurate and consistent collection, analysis, and use of program data to support evaluation, reporting, and decision-making
- Lead quality improvement initiatives through feedback, data analysis, and staff/community input to enhance program design and impact
- Submit all required reports to funders accurately and on time
Financial Oversight
- Collaborate with Finance Department to create, plan and evaluate program budgets
- Monitor program budgets monthly and review variances
- Work with Managers in setting annual budget priorities and managing expenditures
- Ensure consistent budget tracking, ensuring cost-efficiency and compliance, and alignment with funder expectations
- Ensure all financial policies and procedures are consistently followed
Operations, Compliance, and Policy Leadership
- Oversee all aspects of Camp operations to ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance with provincial regulations, public health standards, accreditation requirements, and internal policies
- Lead the development, implementation, and review of policies and procedures that align with cultural values, legal requirements, and accreditation standards
- Monitor facilities, equipment, and site maintenance to uphold safety and operational excellence
- Ensure all staff are trained in health and safety, emergency procedures, and wellness protocols, lead emergency preparedness planning and drills
- Coordinate audits, inspections and accreditation processes, maintaining detailed compliance documentation
Leadership and Organizational Engagement
- Champion a culture of wellness, inclusion, and high performance across all areas of the Camp
- Provide positive role modeling aligned with Code of Ethics and organizational values
- Develop strong, respectful relationships with Managers and program staff
- Demonstrate a balanced, healthy work ethic—promoting high performance and wellness
- Actively participate in community events, leadership meetings, and gatherings
- Support building an engaged, motivated, and culturally grounded workforce
- Participate in organizational strategic planning and leadership discussions
Communications, Advocacy and Community Engagement
- Collaborate closely with community leaders, Elders, youth, and families to ensure programming remains responsive, culturally grounded, and community-driven
- Build and maintain strong relationships with local schools, agencies, charities, and sport/recreation networks to strengthen partnerships and expand program reach
- Work with the Communications Team to develop and share compelling stories, visuals, and updates that reflect the impact of Camp programming
- Identify and communicate emerging needs, funding gaps, and systemic barriers to inform advocacy, planning, grant writing, and strategic partnerships
- Represent the Camp at local and regional tables/committees when relevant to bring forward opportunities
Other duties as assigned
QUALIFICATIONS
- Excellent written, oral, interpersonal, and presentation skills
- Demonstrated ability to build strong relationships with staff, stakeholders, and community partners
- Strong leadership and management skills; able to inspire, coach, and motivate staff
- Excellent problem-solving, time management, and strategic planning abilities
- Strong understanding of program development, evaluation, and budgeting
- Trustworthy and consistent, with high personal and professional integrity
- Computer proficient, organized and detail-oriented
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE
- University degree or college diploma from a recognized institution (preferably in Recreation, Outdoor Education, Indigenous Studies, or a related field)
- Minimum of 5 years in a leadership/management role in a community-based, health, education, or camp setting
- Experience working with First Nations organizations, with knowledge of First Nations cultural and wellness practices
- Ability to speak Anishinaabemowin is an asset
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
- Valid driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle
- Willingness to travel and work occasional evenings or weekends
- Clear Vulnerable Sector Criminal Records Check
We’re looking to grow our teams with people who share our energy and enthusiasm for creating the best experience for our clients and within KCA.
Discover What’s Possible!
Please forward resume, cover letter and 3 references to:
Human Resource Department
Kenora Chiefs Advisory
P.O. Box 349- 240 Veterans Drive, 3rd Floor
Kenora ON P9N 3X4
Fax: 807-467-2656
Email: resume@kenorachiefs.org
*We thank all that apply, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted
** Traditional practices involve burning sacred medicines including tobacco, sweetgrass, sage and cedar within the work setting