Programming Director
The Programming Director leads the strategic design, delivery, and scaling of veteran-centered programs at Mission First and The Sanctuary on the Hill.
Position Overview
The Programming Director leads the strategic design, delivery, and scaling of veteran-centered programs at Mission First and The Sanctuary on the Hill. This pivotal leadership role ensures a holistic portfolio of services that helps veterans and their families successfully transition to civilian life by fostering community, restoring purpose, and providing long-term support.
The position currently reports directly to the President of the Board of Directors and delivers quarterly updates to the general board. Upon the hiring of an Executive Director, the reporting line will transition to that role, with board updates provided as necessary.
Role Impact
The Programming Director plays a critical role in delivering Mission First's vision. By leading these efforts, you will create a trusted, safe community where veterans and their families can heal, reconnect, and thrive.
Key Responsibilities
Program Strategy & Development
- Govern property collaborations by overseeing external contracted organizations providing on-site programs at The Sanctuary on the Hill.
- Facilitate organizational synergy among collaborators to maximize the efficient use of shared resources.
- Curate core focus areas spanning mental health and peer support, family wellness, life skills, career transition, and outdoor/experiential programming.
- Cultivate strategic networks with VA providers, regional nonprofits, corporate employers, and community organizations.
- Translate programmatic data into actionable insights to continuously refine and elevate program quality and content.
Program Operations & Engagement
- Manage daily logistics including scheduling, facility usage, and resource allocation across all Sanctuary facilities.
- Enforce quality control to guarantee absolute safety, consistency, and alignment with the Mission First brand.
- Map participant pathways that guide veterans and their families seamlessly between programs to maximize long-term growth.
- Foster inclusive spaces that cultivate a welcoming, community-driven, and supportive environment.
Staff & Volunteer Leadership
- Assess staffing needs proactively to identify gaps requiring employee or volunteer reinforcement.
- Recruit, maintain, and support a high-performing team of staff members and community volunteers supporting exemplary program personnel expectations.
- Champion peer-led models that intentionally engage seasoned veterans as mentors for incoming participants.
Measurement, Improvement & Alignment
- Track key metrics including veteran participation, programmatic outcomes, and satisfaction scores via internal and external data.
- Evaluate agency satisfaction among collaborating partners to eliminate barriers and optimize execution.
- Report impact data clearly and regularly to executive leadership and the Board of Directors.
- Partner with Development by supporting the Development Director in the promotion of programs and their outcomes to veterans and their families, current and perspective partner organizations, and donors.
Candidate Profile
- Proven leadership experience in designing, executing, and scaling community or non-profit programs.
- Expert relationship builder with a track record of driving multi-agency collaborations and community networking.
- Deep cultural competence regarding veteran experiences, military transition challenges, and available support systems.
- Dynamic operational skills with the ability to balance high-level strategy with daily, hands-on task management.
- Mental health background with applicable, professional experience in the development, implementation, and/or oversight of social programs.
- Whole-person focused mindset with experience or education in mind-body approaches to mental, physical, and emotional health
- Mission-driven passion for genuinely serving and empowering veterans and military families.
Success Measures
- High participation rates reflected in robust veteran engagement and multi-agency partner retention.
- Measurable human impact demonstrated through positive qualitative feedback and quantitative data.
- Sustainable portfolio growth achieved by scaling programs and expanding strategic community partnerships.
- Optimized resource utilization across all physical assets and facilities at The Sanctuary on the Hill.
How to apply
Email your resume and cover letter to our careers inbox by August 8, 2026. Put Programming Director in the subject line so it reaches the right person.
PDF or Word attachments are best. We read every application and will be in touch if it looks like a fit.