Executive Director of Camp Kanata

YMCA
How to Apply
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The YMCA of the Triangle is seeking our next Executive Director of Camp Kanata, located in Wake Forrest, NC.
Job Description

Camp Kanata, a premier overnight camp of the YMCA of the Triangle, is seeking a mission-driven, high-capacity leader to serve as the Executive Director.

Through the spring of 2026, this person will work closely alongside the current Executive Director to ensure seamless leadership continuity across all facets of Camp Kanata’s operations and long-range planning. This includes strategic development, program excellence, facilities oversight, financial stewardship, staff culture, and donor engagement. 

This role is an extraordinary leadership opportunity for a values-aligned professional with a demonstrated commitment to youth development, operational excellence, and innovation in service delivery. The selected candidate will be positioned and prepared to step confidently into the Executive Director role, sustaining and expanding Camp Kanata’s legacy of impact, growth, and service to families across the region. 

Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of eight years of experience in overnight camping, human services or a related field. History and work experience with an overnight camp operation is highly preferred.  
  • Proven leadership and relationship-building skills.  
  • Demonstrated ability in program design, development, and delivery.  
  • Demonstrated ability to encourage teams and staff; able to actively coach, mentor and lead through complex initiatives, change and challenges.  
  • Demonstrated ability to multi-task, work under pressure and meet deadlines with quality and excellence.  
  • Strong financial management skills, with the ability to develop, implement and manage budget and evaluate financial performance and take action when needed.  
  • Outstanding communication skills – including writing, presentation delivery, facilitating meetings and public speaking, both in-person and through virtual platforms. 
  • Demonstrated ability to work with community partners, third-party organizations and high-level volunteers to move work forward.  
  • Proficient with Microsoft 365 Office applications (e.g. Word, Teams, SharePoint, PowerPoint, OneDrive, PowerBi, Excel and Outlook).  
  • Ability to quickly understand and use data to drive business decisions and planning.  
  • Excellent organizational and time management skills.  
  • Strong collaboration and influential leadership skills. 
  • Strong understanding of business imperatives, strategic priorities, funding opportunities and proven success in strategy development, implementation and tactical execution.  
  • Demonstrated and successful experience assessing situations, defining problems, collecting data, and drawing valid conclusions. 
  • Proven ability and capacity to address and resolve employee conflicts and work toward/find equitable solutions. 
  • An outstanding commitment to the YMCA Mission and Purpose – with the proven ability to model and teach unifying behavior to support Y culture and develop high-performing and collaborative teams.   
  • Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality and professionalism. 
  • Ability to manage and accomplish multiple projects and work assignments with little supervision.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS: 

The position requires normal vision, hearing, and speech, with or without reasonable accommodations, to effectively perform assigned duties. 

  • Candidates must be capable of standing, swimming, walking, and driving as part of regular responsibilities.  
  • During the core summer season (mid-May through August), residency at Camp Kanata is required. The majority of work outside the summer season will be based in Raleigh and at the Camp Kanata office. 
  • Travel, including evening, weekend, and overnight, will be necessary. 
  • Must be able to provide valid identification for employment eligibility verification. 
  • Must possess a valid driver’s license and have access to reliable transportation. 
  • A clean driving record is required to meet YMCA insurance standards. 
  • Travel between branch locations or to off-site meetings and events is required. 
Essential Functions

Strategic Leadership & Vision 
Develop and execute strategic priorities for Camp Kanata by: 

  • Defining and upholding standards of excellence across all Camp Kanata program areas and operational seasons including:
    • Summer Overnight Camp 
    • Summer Day Camp 
    • Fall and Spring Programs
  • Creating and managing a sustainable business plan that supports innovation, growth, and mission alignment. 
    Leading the continued development and execution of Long-Range Plans and Master Site Plans appropriately.  
     

Team Leadership & Workforce Development 

  • Provide direct leadership, supervision, coaching, and performance management to the Senior Associate Program Director, Senior Staffing Director, Camper Life Director, and Facilities Director.  
  • Foster a values-based staff culture grounded in teamwork, accountability, and a shared commitment to the YMCA’s Mission. 
  • Promote professional development opportunities and create pathways for staff growth and advancement.  

Program & Operational Excellence 

  • Ensure a fun, safe, engaging, and impactful camper experience in alignment with the standards of overnight camping and the YMCA of the Triangle. 
  • Lead the planning, execution, and continuous improvement of summer and year-round programs.  
  • Prioritize facility maintenance, capital projects, and future expansion needs.  

Philanthropy & Advisory Board/Community Engagement 

  • Lead all philanthropic efforts, including the Annual Campaign, capital initiatives, and endowment development. 
  • In conjunction with the Major Gifts and Alumni Director, identify and cultivate new funding opportunities that align with Camp Kanata’s strategic direction. 
  • Ensure accountability for Annual Campaign fundraising and volunteer engagement goals for the Kanata Director Team. 
  • Recruit, engage, and support a strong and forward-focused Camp Advisory Board and related committees.  

Organizational Leadership & Collaboration 

  • Represent Camp Kanata on the YMCA of the Triangle Overnight Camp Executive Team and contribute to association-wide initiatives and planning. 
  • Build, strengthen and sustain strong relationships with YMCA senior leadership, branch executives, and regional partners.  

Professional Engagement & Additional Duties 

  • Maintain accreditation through the American Camp Association and engage in broader industry networks, including participation in ACA and Y-USA conferences and committees. 
  • Perform additional duties as assigned by the Vice President of Camping Services and/or the Chief Operating Officer.