Equestrian Director at Frost Valley YMCA

Town of Neversink, New York, United States -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

29 May, 26

Salary

63500.0

Posted On

28 Feb, 26

Experience

2 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Department Leadership, Vision Setting, Herd Management, Staff Supervision, Program Development, System Building, Risk Management, Budget Development, Community Engagement, Facilities Oversight, Strategic Planning, Decision Making, Performance Management, Recordkeeping, Safety Compliance, Innovation

Industry

Non-profit Organizations

Description

Description The Equestrian Director serves as the Head of the Equestrian Department, providing strategic leadership for equestrian operations, staff teams, herd management systems, and program growth across Frost Valley’s equestrian facilities. This role is responsible for setting direction, building systems, leading people, and executing a long-term vision for a dynamic and evolving equestrian program. While executing some aspects of a traditional barn manage, the Equestrian Director focuses on decision-making, structure, staff leadership, and program development, ensuring that day-to-day operations are carried out effectively by trained staff teams. The Director oversees a year round herd that grows during summer months of approximately 20–90 horses, equestrian facilities, and a multidisciplinary staff team, while actively identifying opportunities to expand offerings, strengthen community connections, and position the program as a regional equestrian resource. This role is ideal for a driven, forward-thinking equestrian professional who is excited by growth, innovation, and leadership, and who wants the opportunity to build, evolve, and expand a department. Requirements ESSENTIAL FUNCTION: Department Leadership & Vision Serve as the Head of the Equestrian Department, setting strategic direction and priorities for herd management, staffing, facilities, and programming Develop and execute a clear vision for the growth and evolution of equestrian programs, balancing safety, sustainability, and innovation Establish and refine systems that support efficient operations, consistent decision-making, and high-quality outcomes Represent the equestrian department internally and externally, building trust and visibility across the organization and community Herd Management & Equine Systems Provide oversight (occasionally daily execution) of herd management for a year round population 20 horses; seasonal population 90 horses Design and maintain systems for veterinary care, farrier schedules, conditioning, turnout, feeding coordination, and seasonal transitions Make strategic decisions regarding horse use, placement, acquisition, retirement, sale, or reassignment based on temperament, training, and welfare Ensure accurate recordkeeping related to horse health, workload, training status, and utilization Staff Leadership & Team Management Lead, supervise, and develop a team of year-round and seasonal equestrian staff, including barn managers, instructors, and weekend staff Set clear expectations, roles, and accountability structures so staff can effectively manage daily operations Focus on coaching, professional growth, and performance management rather than routine task completion Foster a strong, safety-centered, and inclusive team culture rooted in communication, trust, and shared responsibility Program Growth, Innovation & Community Engagement Identify and develop new equestrian opportunities that expand access, participation, and impact, including but not limited to: Hosting outside clinics and specialty workshops Developing trail riding programs for varied experience levels Offering community lesson programs Launching student or entry-level horse shows Creating corporate or group team-building experiences involving horses Build and maintain relationships with local trainers, equestrians, schools, and organizations Position the equestrian program as a community-facing asset and regional destination Facilities, Risk & Operational Oversight Provide strategic oversight of barns, pastures, fencing, equipment, and equestrian facilities Coordinate with maintenance and operations teams to ensure facilities meet safety, welfare, and industry standards Ensure compliance with applicable equestrian and safety standards (CHA, ACA, DOH, etc.) Proactively manage risk related to horses, facilities, staff practices, and participant engagement Financial & Strategic Planning Develop and manage the equestrian department budget, with attention to sustainability and growth Identify opportunities for revenue generation and program expansion Contribute to long-term planning for facilities, herd sustainability, and program development QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor’s degree in Equine Studies, Animal Science, Education, Recreation, or a related field preferred; equivalent professional experience considered 3–5+ years of progressive leadership experience in the equestrian industry, including herd management and staff supervision Demonstrated ability to lead teams, build systems, and manage complex operations Experience developing or expanding equestrian programs beyond traditional instruction Strong communication, organizational, and decision-making skills Certification from a nationally recognized equestrian organization (CHA or equivalent) preferred First Aid/CPR certification (or willingness to obtain) Valid driver’s license and ability to meet organizational driving requirements WHY THIS ROLE: This position offers the opportunity to shape and grow a full equestrian department, lead people rather than just tasks, and bring innovative ideas to life. The Equestrian Director will have meaningful influence, creative freedom, and the chance to build something lasting. WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Physically able to lift up to 50 lbs and walk up to 10 miles a day The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 15 pounds Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS STATEMENT: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. FROST VALLEY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER PAY RANGE: $62,353.00-$63,500.00 annually plus generous benefits onsite housing with the option of bringing a personal horse This position would start late June/early July DEADLINE TO APPLY: April 3, 2026 SIGNATURE: I have reviewed and understand this job description. __________________________________ _________________________________ Employee’s name Employee’s signature Today’s date: _______________________

Responsibilities

The Equestrian Director acts as the Head of the Equestrian Department, providing strategic leadership for operations, staff, herd management systems, and program growth across facilities. This involves setting direction, building operational systems, leading people, and executing a long-term vision for the evolving equestrian program.