Children's Programs Manager
East Bank Club
- Chicago, IL
- $50,000 per year
- Permanent
- Full-time
- Program Development & Leadership
- Create and deliver innovative, high-energy, and developmentally appropriate programming focused on movement, sports, and fitness for children and youth.
- Collaborate on the design and execution of seasonal camps, special events, and School’s Out We’re In days to ensure engaging and age-appropriate activities.
- Lead programming independently, demonstrating strong room management and enthusiasm.
- Safety & Environment
- Maintain a safe, secure, clean, and engaging environment for all children and staff.
- Promptly report and address any health or safety concerns, suspicious behavior, or policy violations.
- Team & Staff Development
- Manage hiring, onboarding, scheduling, training, payroll, and evaluations for all program-related team members.
- Provide coaching, discipline, and performance management with the authority to suspend staff for serious policy violations, pending investigation.
- Facilitate ongoing team development, ensuring staff create supportive, structured, and positive learning environments that promote movement, inquiry, and play.
- Engagement & Relationships
- Build strong, professional relationships with children, parents, and guardians while respecting confidentiality and family needs.
- Communicate effectively with families about programs, policies, and participation.
- Program Excellence & Innovation
- Stay informed about industry trends and introduce new sports, fitness, and educational programs to keep offerings competitive and exciting.
- Continuously evaluate programs to enhance engagement, participation, and learning outcomes and pivoting when necessary.
- Interdepartmental Collaboration
- Partner with other departments to grow youth-focused services and promote all children’s offerings throughout the Club.
- Support additional Club functions as needed, contributing to overall excellence in service and operations.
- Other tasks as assigned by the Director of Children’s Programs and/or the Senior Leadership Team.
- This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that may be required of the employee.
- Ability to effectively influence and motivate others, promote high performance amongst the team, team collaboration, and deliver results.
- Exceptional organizational, written and oral communication skills, including the ability to clearly and concisely present ideas and concepts, and tailor communication as needed to the team, families, and children.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities, able to work both independently and with others as required, works well under pressure, and can work in a fast-paced environment while prioritizing tasks to maintain deadlines.
- Must have passion for child and youth development.
- Mobility: Ability to move around the facility, including fitness areas, offices, and other club spaces.
- Stamina: Endurance for extended periods of walking or standing during programs and events.
- Lifting Capacity: Ability to lift and carry objects such as office supplies, event materials, or fitness equipment as needed. And in some urgent cases, children.
- Flexibility: Ability to adapt to various tasks and responsibilities within the dynamic environment of a health and wellness club.
- Proficiency in extended computer usage, effective communication in person, over the phone, and through virtual platforms like Zoom, as well as the capability to stand, sit, and crouch for prolonged periods.
- Regular presence at an onsite office with both stairs and an elevator.
- Minimum of 2 years in child/youth athletics or creative programming.
- Excellent Microsoft Suite skills.
- Demonstrate strong leadership ability and positive team collaboration. Strategic thinker; ability to analyze and solve issues quickly.
- Ability to build a strong and productive team environment.
- Bachelor’s Degree or higher in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Education, Recreation or a related field.
- Experience in upscale/high-hospitality environment.
- Experience in the operation of a child development center with a focus on physical fitness for youth.
- Time Off & Retirement
- Paid Time Off
- 401(k) with company match up to 3%
- Value Sharing (Profit sharing)
- Holiday Bonus
- Paid Parental Leave
- Health & Wellness:
- Comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance
- HSA and FSA enrollment options
- Short- & Long-Term Disability options
- Life Insurance: Basic coverage equivalent to annual income, with voluntary options for additional coverage
- Long-Term Care options: Coverage up to 50% of annual income
- Accident and Critical Illness Insurance
- EAP (Employee Assistance Program)
- Pet Insurance through MetLife
- Employee Perks:
- Free workout privileges
- Employee discounts in the Pro Shop, Spa & Salon services and in the Market
- Parking and transit benefits (pre-tax deduction)
- Access to Tickets at Work discounts
- Tuition reimbursement