THE SALVATION ARMY

North and Central Illinois Division

Wonderland Camp and Conference Center

POSITION DESCRIPTION

POSITION TITLE: Executive Director

LOCATION: Wonderland Camp and Conference Center (Camp Lake, Wisconsin)

REPORTS TO: Divisional Leader

FLSA CATEGORY: Exempt

STATUS TYPE: RFT

SALARY: Competitive, commensurate with experience

MISSION

At Wonderland Camp and Conference Center, our mission is to provide transformative experiences rooted in Christian values, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment where individuals and groups can grow spiritually, emotionally, and socially. Through engaging programs, exceptional hospitality, and meaningful connections, we aim to inspire faith, foster community, and empower people of all ages to discover their purpose and make a positive impact in the world.

OVERVIEW

Wonderland Camp and Conference Center is seeking a dynamic and experienced Executive Director to lead our organization into its next phase of growth and impact. Located in a picturesque setting, our camp and conference center serves as a hub for youth camps, corporate retreats, community events, and more. We are looking for a visionary leader with a passion for serving diverse communities, fostering collaboration, and driving organizational excellence.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Strategic Leadership:
  • Develop and implement a strategic plan in alignment with the organization's mission, vision, and values in coordination with Divisional Leadership.
  • Lead efforts to expand programs, services, and partnerships to maximize impact and reach.
• Financial Management:
  • Oversee budgeting, financial planning, and fundraising activities.
  • Ensure fiscal responsibility and sustainability through effective resource allocation and revenue generation strategies.
• Stakeholder Engagement:
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders, including board members, staff, volunteers, donors, partners, and the broader community.
  • Represent the organization at events, conferences, and networking opportunities.
• Program Development:
  • Collaborate with staff and stakeholders to design and enhance camp and conference programs that meet the needs of diverse audiences.
  • Ensure high-quality experiences that promote learning, growth, and inclusivity.
• Operations Management:
  • Provide oversight of day-to-day operations, including facilities management, staffing, risk management, compliance, and safety protocols.
  • Implement best practices to maintain a welcoming, safe, and accessible environment for all participants.
• Team Leadership:
  • Recruit, mentor, and empower a talented team of professionals and volunteers.
  • Foster a positive organizational culture that values diversity, equity, inclusion, and continuous learning.
• Marketing and Communications:
  • Develop and implement marketing strategies to promote the organization's brand, attract participants and supporters, and enhance public awareness.
  • Utilize digital platforms, media relations, and outreach campaigns effectively.

Other Duties: All other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree in nonprofit management, business administration, hospitality management, or related field or commensurate experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of senior leadership experience in nonprofit management, camp administration, hospitality, or a related field.
• Proven track record of strategic planning, financial management, fundraising, and stakeholder engagement.

COMPETENCIES

• In agreement with the philosophy, goals and objectives of The Salvation Army Wonderland Camp and Conference Center.
• Proven success with recruitment and retention, program development, implementation of new programs, staff supervision, budget management and leadership of multiple camp programs.
• Be a strong leader and collaborate effectively with others.
• Knowledge of camp and conference industry trends, best practices, and regulatory requirements.
• A strong commitment to support and promote the mission of The Salvation Army.
• A passion for camp/conference ministry and a vision for how this facet of ministry is an effective component in accomplishing the overall mission of the church.
• Strong interpersonal, communication and collaborative skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams, drive innovation, and achieve measurable results.
• Passion for serving youth, families, and communities through transformative experiences.
• A communication and management style that is responsive as well as fosters team relationships, effectively communicates information and fosters a common vision.
• An understanding of the cutting-edge issues/programs involved in effective camp ministry,
• particularly as it relates to a diverse, multicultural population.
• A growing knowledge of the Army's history, mission, and structure, as well as its services, policies, and procedures.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and social responsibility.

POSITION LIMITATIONS

• In conducting the duties of this position, this individual will accurately represent the mission or teachings of the Salvation Army.
• The individual shall keep the Divisional Leader informed of all critical issues relating to his/her area of responsibility.
• The individual will only commit Agency resources which have been allocated or approved.
• This individual will adhere to all policies and procedures in carrying out the responsibilities of this position.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Capable of participating in outdoor camp activities. Must be capable of performing the above essential duties in an office environment to include using a computer, answering phones, etc. and in outdoor recreation environment.
• Work will be indoors in a temperature-controlled environment with potential high and low noise levels, and work will be outdoors which will be cold in winter and hot in the summer with potential high and low noise levels.
• Includes some travel.
• This position is required to do light physical work and must be able to lift up to 50lbs.

THE SALVATION ARMY MISSION STATEMENT

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.