Chief Program Officer

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Gordon Jewish Community Center is a vibrant community organization dedicated to creating meaningful opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to connect, learn, grow, and thrive. Through a broad range of programs, services, fitness and wellness offerings, camps, cultural experiences, educational opportunities, and community events, the JCC serves as a gathering place for the greater community.

The Chief Program Officer (CPO) provides strategic vision and leadership for the Gordon Jewish Community Center's programming portfolio, including Children's Services, Camp Davis, Fitness, Aquatics, the Nashville Jewish Film Festival, Older Adult Programming, BBYO, Maccabi Games and teen programming, and campus-wide events. Pending Board approval, this position may also be involved in the development and management of a new racquet center facility on the campus. The CPO ensures programs are mission-aligned, high-quality, financially sustainable, and responsive to community needs. The CPO will support program leaders in setting priorities, evaluating performance, and identifying opportunities for growth. They will ensure alignment across departments on organizational vision, culture, and strategic priorities. As a member of the Gordon JCC executive team, this role works across departments to strengthen member engagement, program participation, and overall community experience.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Programming Strategy and Innovation

Develop and implement a comprehensive programming strategy aligned with the Gordon JCC's mission, strategic priorities, and community needs.
Identify and pursue opportunities for program innovation, growth, and financial sustainability, with a focus on expanding impact, developing new revenue opportunities, and strengthening program performance.
Provide leadership and oversight for Children's Services, Camp Davis, Fitness, Aquatics, Nashville Jewish Film Festival, Cultural Arts, Older Adult Programming, BBYO and Maccabi, and campus-wide events.
Collaborate with program leaders to develop and implement systems for program evaluation, benchmarking, and data-driven decision making.

Program Quality & Performance

Ensure programs provide high-quality, inclusive, safe, and engaging experiences for participants and members.
Build a culture of continuous improvement, with alignment and high expectations across program teams.
Establish consistent standards for program quality, customer service, and participant experience across programming areas.
Leadership & Staff Development

Cultivate a welcoming, dynamic, and positive workplace culture that promotes collaboration, engagement, trust, and open communication across the organization.
Collaborate with program directors to define a clear vision for each program that is aligned with the JCC’s mission, values and strategic goals. Hold departments accountable to actionable strategies that drive long term success.
Partner with Human Resources on staffing, performance management, professional development, and organizational effectiveness.
Ensure appropriate policies, procedures, safety practices, and safety standards are maintained across programs
Financial & Operational Oversight

Partner with program directors and the Director of Finance to develop and manage program budgets and meet financial goals.
Monitor program performance and identify opportunities to improve efficiency, participation, revenue, and long-term success.
Cross-Departmental Collaboration

Collaborate with Marketing, Development, Finance, Facilities, Security, Human Resources, and other departments to support organization-wide goals.
Partner with Marketing and Membership to promote programs, increase participation, and strengthen member engagement.
Oversee major campus-wide events and initiatives to create a cohesive and engaging community experience.
Jewish Community & Mission

Ensure programming reflects the Gordon JCC's mission, values, and commitment to Jewish life, community, inclusion, wellness, and lifelong engagement.
Support programs and events that bring together individuals and families across generations and backgrounds.
Develop and maintain relationships with community organizations, partners, and stakeholders.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor's degree in nonprofit management, business, recreation, education, Jewish communal service, or a related field; equivalent experience may be considered. Master's degree preferred.
10+ years of progressive leadership experience in programming, nonprofit, recreation, community, camp, or related settings.
Demonstrated experience leading multiple programs or departments and supervising and developing professional staff.
5+ years’ experience with budgeting, financial management, program evaluation, and strategic planning.
Experience working or participating in a Jewish Community Center, Jewish nonprofit, camp, recreation organization, or similar mission-driven organization and/or familiarity with Jewish culture, traditions, and community life.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Strategic thinking, program leadership and a visionary
Program development, innovation, and growth
Financial acumen and resource management
Team leadership, coaching, and development
Strong communication and relationship-building skills
Collaboration and cross-functional leadership
Data-driven decision-making and continuous improvement
Change management, problem-solving, and conflict resolution

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Ability to sit, stand, walk, and use a computer for extended periods.
Ability to attend meetings, events, and occasional evening functions as required.

MARKERS OF SUCCESS

Overall program participation, enrollment, and retention
Increased program revenue and financial performance
Increased membership conversion resulting from programming
Program quality and positive participant experience
Successful execution of major campus-wide events
Staff retention, engagement, and leadership development
Successful achievement of annual programming goals
Development and implementation of new or improved programs
Increased community partnerships and engagement
Program safety, compliance, and risk management