Equestrian Director

Description

 The Equestrian Director provides strategic leadership for the horses, programs, staff, and facilities of Frost Valley YMCA’s Equestrian Centers at Main Camp and East Valley Ranch. This role is responsible for setting the vision and direction of Frost Valley’s equestrian programming, ensuring high standards of horse care, program quality, safety, and long-term sustainability. 

The Director oversees the care and management of a herd of approximately 20–90 horses (seasonally dependent), full equestrian facilities, and a team of one year-round and 4–12 seasonal staff. The Equestrian Director works with Program Directors to support equestrian day and overnight camp riding programs, and weekend trail rides while continuously assessing opportunities for growth and improvement. In addition to operational oversight, the Equestrian Director actively identifies and develops new equestrian programs, community partnerships, and outreach opportunities that expand access to riding experiences, strengthen connections with local organizations and schools, and enhance Frost Valley’s role as a regional equestrian resource. Through strategic planning, staff development, and partnership building, the Director works to grow participation, diversify offerings, and increase the overall impact of Frost Valley’s equestrian programs. 

Requirements

Herd Management & Equine Welfare

• Provide leadership and oversight for the care and management of a seasonal herd of approximately 20–90 horses, ensuring high standards of health, safety, and humane treatment.
• Establish and oversee systems for feeding, veterinary and farrier care, conditioning, turnout, and seasonal herd transitions.
• Assess and determine appropriate use and placement of each horse based on temperament, training, and physical condition, including staff-only use, beginner programming, retirement, sale, or acquisition.
• Maintain accurate and comprehensive records for each horse, including health history, training status, workload, and usage data.

Program Quality, Growth & Innovation

• Lead the design, evaluation, and continuous improvement of equestrian programming to meet guest needs, increase retention, and align with Frost Valley’s mission.
• Identify and develop new equestrian programs, community partnerships, and outreach opportunities that expand access to riding experiences and strengthen Frost Valley’s role as a regional equestrian resource.
• Regularly review and update equestrian program quality standards, ensuring alignment with best practices in the equine industry and organizational goals.

Staff Leadership & Training

• Lead equestrian staff training and professional development, including documenting staff competencies, modeling appropriate horsemanship and guest engagement, and upholding all safety protocols.
• Assist in the recruitment, hiring, training, and supervision of seasonal barn managers, summer equestrian staff, and per diem weekend staff.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and safety-focused staff culture grounded in clear expectations, coaching, and accountability.

Facilities & Operations Oversight

• Oversee the care, upkeep, and safety of barns, pastures, fencing, equipment, and equestrian facilities to ensure clean, well-functioning, and industry-standard environments.
• Maintain availability for weekend equestrian programming during spring and fall seasons, including on-call support for urgent equestrian needs.
• Coordinate closely with maintenance, summer camp, program, and operations teams to ensure equestrian needs are integrated into broader site planning and operations.

Compliance, Risk Management & Standards

• Ensure full compliance with CHA, ACA, DOH and other applicable equestrian industry standards, updating policies and procedures as needed.
• Proactively manage risk related to equine care, facilities, staff practices, and guest participation.

Financial & Strategic Planning

• Develop and manage the annual equestrian department budget, tracking expenses and identifying opportunities for cost control and resource optimization.
• Contribute to long-range planning for equestrian programs, facilities, and herd sustainability.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Must be 25 years of age or older.
• Bachelor’s degree in Equine Studies, Animal Science, Recreation, Education, or a related field preferred; equivalent professional experience may be considered.
• 3 to 5 years experience in the equestrian industry, including teaching riding (English and/or Western), barn or herd management, and supervision of equestrian staff.
• Experience designing,