Director of Programs

The Louis August Jonas Foundation (LAJF), home to Camp Rising Sun (CRS) and The Ethical Leadership Experience (TELE), is seeking a strategic, values-driven Director of Programs to lead our in-person and virtual leadership programs for teens from around the world. For 95 years, LAJF has developed compassionate, responsible global leaders. Our programs bring together teens from 30+ countries to engage in experiential leadership learning and lifelong community.

This is a unique opportunity to shape the next phase of LAJF’s program evolution, supervise a talented team, and ensure our programs are safe, inclusive, and transformative for young leaders globally.

See below for more details about the role and application instructions.

Key highlights of the role:

• Lead program design, delivery, and evaluation across CRS, TELE, and Recent Camper programming

• Supervise year-round and seasonal staff

• Partner with senior leadership on strategy, operations, and program growth

• Play a central role in shaping organizational learning and development

Read the full job description here.

How to Apply

Please submit the following materials via email to business@lajf.org with the subject line: “Director of Programs Application – [Your Name]”:

1. Resume or CV

2. Statement of Interest (1–2 pages) addressing the prompt below

Statement of Interest Prompt

In 1–2 pages, please respond to all four of the questions below to help us understand your experience, approach, and alignment with LAJF’s mission:

1. Describe a time when you led or significantly contributed to a youth development or experiential learning program. What were the goals, how did you structure the program, and what outcomes did you achieve?

2. Share an example of how you managed and developed a team of staff, either year-round employees, seasonal employees, or both. How did you ensure effectiveness and alignment with program values?

3. Discuss your experience working in international or cross-cultural environments. How have you incorporated diverse perspectives or navigated differences to strengthen program impact?

4. Reflect on why LAJF’s mission resonates with you, and how your values and experience align with our approach to developing global ethical leaders.

Screening Criteria (Minimum Qualifications)

Applicants will be evaluated against the following requirements:

• 8–10 years of experience in youth development, experiential learning, or nonprofit program leadership

• Experience supervising staff, including year-round and/or seasonal teams

• Familiarity with youth protection and residential program best practices

• Demonstrated international/cross-cultural competence

• Strong project management and program evaluation experience

Timeline

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.