The Program Director is responsible for the daily leadership, operational excellence, and long-term success of the Dauch Boys & Girls Club programming. The ideal candidate will possess a commitment to quality and excellence, with a passion for program development and youth development. The Program Director is responsible for planning, implementing, and overseeing programs and activities designed to support the personal, educational, and social development of BGCSM members. This opportunity is created for a leader with a drive for high-level execution in the areas of safety, program quality, and operational efficiency.
Key Responsibilities
Program Strategy & Execution
- Design and implement a program calendar featuring digital media, entrepreneurship, arts, STEM, mobility innovation, and industry-led programming.
- Continuously evaluate program outcomes and member engagement to adjust schedules, offerings, and staffing as needed.
- Ensure programs align with youth development best practices and foster creativity, belonging, and exposure to career pathways.
- Lead and execute Club events (showcases, exhibitions, pitch nights, etc.) to elevate member experience and retention.
- Oversee and enhance member check-in/check-out systems to support a membership-based model focused on consistency and relationship-building.
- Serve as an active member of the Program Cabinet and contribute to org-wide strategy, pilots, and innovation initiatives.
Safety & Compliance
- Maintain a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment where youth can create, collaborate, and explore.
- Ensure all incidents, safety concerns, and compliance issues are documented appropriately in MyClubHub and BGCSM platforms.
- Conduct daily facility walkthroughs to ensure creative spaces, studios, and equipment remain functional, safe, and inspiring.
- Uphold licensing requirements (where applicable) and internal policies related to youth safety and staff conduct.
Leadership & Staff Development
- Serve as the People Leader for program teams including Program Specialists, Creative Lab Assistants and Industry Club staff.
- Recruit, train, coach, evaluate, and retain high-performing staff who model professionalism, creativity, and youth-centered guidance.
- Cultivate a culture of continuous learning, accountability, and positive Club climate.
- Support interns and Industry Club partners by providing clear expectations, structured onboarding, and consistent supervision.
Community, Member & Family Engagement
- Build authentic relationships with youth and families to ensure programs remain culturally relevant, inclusive, and responsive to member needs.
- Cultivate collaborative partnerships with Michigan Central, local schools, creative organizations, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders.
- Manage and renew Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs), ensuring partner programs align with Club priorities and deliver high-quality experiences.
- Serve as a visible, accessible leader within the Club, intentionally engaging youth and caregivers daily.
Resource & Financial Management
- Provide key input into the annual budget, aligning resource allocation with programmatic goals and creative hub needs.
- Monitor program budgets, spending, inventory, and supply needs—including creative materials, technology, and equipment.
- Ensure grant deliverables are met and reporting is completed accurately and on time.
- Support earned revenue initiatives such as creative workshops, showcases, or special events hosted within the hub.
Technology & Data Oversight
- Utilize systems such as MyClubHub (MCH), Canvas, Sage, UKG, and others to track attendance, staff timekeeping, program outcomes, and member engagement.
- Maintain data accuracy and ensure reporting deadlines are met for operations, grants, and senior leadership updates.
- Provide backup support for monthly KPI submissions and help establish systems for measuring program success.
- Ensure creative lab equipment, digital platforms, and tech resources are properly maintained and utilized.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in education, youth development, nonprofit management or a related field.
- 3–5 years of leadership experience in youth-serving organizations, education, or program development.
- Strong track record in managing teams and leading high-quality youth programs.
- Experience working in creative, entrepreneurial, or technology-focused environments is highly preferred.
- Knowledge of MyClubHub or other CRM/attendance-tracking systems is strongly preferred.
- Understanding of grant compliance, reporting, and resource management.
- CPR/First Aid Certification (or willingness to obtain).
- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and special events as needed.