Program Director

About Sailing Education Adventures

Sailing Education Adventures (SEA) believes sailing is a unique experience that builds lifelong character, teaches invaluable skills, and fosters a positive active community. SEA is dedicated to promoting sailing through affordable instruction and related on the water activities. 

Position Summary

Sailing Education Adventures (SEA) is seeking a dynamic, mission-driven leader to help guide the organization into its next phase of growth and sustainability. As a small nonprofit with a big impact, SEA is looking for a Program Director who can expand our reach by growing revenue while strengthening core operations. This is a unique opportunity for someone who wants to shape an organization’s future—compensation and benefits for this role will grow in alignment with SEA’s development and the successful execution of its strategic goals.

Day to day, this is a remote role, but needs to be based locally in San Rafael as there are regular requirements for on-site activities in San Rafael especially in the summer. 

This is a multifaceted role requiring strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills. The Program Director reports to the Board of Directors and has some support from volunteers.

The Program Director serves as the public-facing ambassador for SEA, coordinates fundraising efforts, oversees educational programs, and manages administrative and fiscal operations. 

Fundraising & Development

• Work with the Board and volunteers to cultivate funding for program growth and sustainability. 
• Tactics and focus will depend on experience and capacity and may include a mix of grant writing; donor engagement; business sponsorships; and fundraising events or campaigns.

Community Development

• Foster positive relationships with members, volunteers, community partners, and funders.
• Promote SEA programs through brochures, flyers, newsletters, and digital media.
• Maintain and update the SEA website and email communication channels.

Program Management & Delivery

• Work with the Board and volunteers to implement youth and adult sailing programs.
• Support high standards of safety, instruction quality, and equipment readiness.
• Support recruitment, training, and supervision of seasonal instructors.
• Engage regularly with families and participants.
• Attend and support key program events.

Operations & Financial Oversight

• Utilize effective office systems, policies, and procedures.
• Handle purchasing, supplies, and general administrative functions.
• Support Board and volunteers to manage docks, fleet, and related agreements.
• Ensure compliance with insurance policies and organizational risk management practices.
• Prepare and manage annual budgets in collaboration with the Treasurer and Board.
• Work with the bookkeeper to manage accounts payable/receivable.

Desired Qualities

• Experience with one or more fundraising approaches (e.g. grant writing, donations, sponsorship). 
• Demonstrated experience in program management, nonprofit administration, or education.
• Experience with and outdoor recreational programs especially sailing
• Proficiency with digital tools such as google workspace, quickbooks, canva, etc.
• Strong communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.

Compensation

Compensation is $40-45 per hour ($83,000-$93,000 annual equivalent) commensurate with experience. At this time no additional benefits are included. Compensation can be increased and benefits developed in alignment with program growth and fundraising success. 

SEA has support for this position for at least 9 months. Continuation will be dependent on success with program development.