Director, Strategic Programs

Overview

This is a growth role for a high-performing professional who excels at the intersection of relationships, strategy, and execution. Curiosity, initiative, and collaboration are encouraged and essential to be successful in this role.

As Director of Strategic Programs & Operations, you will play a key role in shaping the future of the greater Adams County region— driving private-sector investment, launching new initiatives, and developing programs that directly influence the region’s economic path.

You will have the opportunity to build and expand the LEAD Metro North Foundation, a new 501(c)(3) organization focused on growing leadership development, workforce programs, and regional impact. You will be responsible for finalizing operational procedures, establishing initiatives, partnerships, and funding streams that will shape the region’s leadership pipeline for years to come.

This is a hands-on entrepreneurial position responsible for turning strategy into action—driving membership growth, managing high-impact programs, and consistently delivering value to investors and partners.

You will collaborate closely with regional leaders across business, government, and key industries—gaining unique insights into the decisions shaping Adams County’s future.

We are a small, high-performing team that values initiative, creativity, and people who step up and make things happen.

Core Responsibilities

Program Leadership: LEAD Metro North Foundation

• Develop and execute an annual strategic plan that includes programming, funding, and long-term growth on this new 501(c)3 organization.
• The Foundation will become the home for several signature AC-REP educational programs, including the LEAD Metro North leadership program, the Development Council, and workforce-related strategic programs such as the Transportation Sector Partnership.
• Manage all aspects of program delivery, including curriculum development, speaker coordination, and participant experience.
• Build and launch a LEAD alumni network to strengthen long-term engagement and regional influence for previous participants in the LEAD Metro North program.
• Secure and manage diverse revenue streams, including sponsorships, grants, and program fees, in accordance with the requirements of a 501(c)3 foundation.
• Ensure strong financial oversight, budget management, and fiscal accountability.

Investor Development & Membership Operations

• Execute a comprehensive annual investor recruitment and retention strategy to grow and diversify AC-REP’s funding base, with a focus on increasing private-sector revenue through membership and sponsorships.
• Manage and grow relationships with existing investors through regular engagement, tailored value delivery, and strategic communication.
• Maintain and utilize CRM systems to track engagement, manage pipelines, set sales goals, and report on performance metrics.
• Develop and deliver investor presentations, engagement campaigns, and customized value propositions.
• Coordinate and execute new member onboarding and orientation experiences.
• Partner with investors to secure sponsorships, venues, and resources to support AC-REP initiatives.
• Provide regular reporting to the President/CEO and Board of Directors on investor engagement, revenue performance, and pipeline development. Provide accurate financial forecasting to ensure fiscal accountability.

Community & Organizational Leadership

• Represent AC-REP in the community through board service, partnerships, and stakeholder engagement.
• Build a strong presence across the Metro Denver region to enhance AC-REP’s visibility and influence.
• Support cross-organizational initiatives that advance regional economic development priorities.

Qualifications Profile

• Minimum of 6-10 years of progressive leadership experience in a chamber, economic development, nonprofit association, or membership organization required.
• Proven ability to execute programs and drive results, particularly in membership growth, revenue generation, and stakeholder engagement.
• Excellent network within the business community and experience engaging with executives to drive engagement.
• Demonstrated success in building and maintaining investor, sponsor, and community relationships.
• Strong operational mindset with the ability to manage multiple projects, timelines, and priorities simultaneously.
• Experience developing and implementing strategic plans and translating them into measurable outcomes.
• Financial acumen, including experience managing budgets, tracking revenue, and ensuring fiscal responsibility.
• Proficiency with CRM systems and project management tools; experience with platforms such as Dropbox, GrowthZone, Canva, QuickBooks, and Microsoft 365.
• Experience working in a MAC computer environment or willingness to learn!
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills; comfortable serving as a visible representative of the organization.
• Entrepreneurial, proactive, and detail-oriented with a commitment to continuous improvement and innovation.
• This is a full-time, in-office preferred role.
• Ability to work flexible hours, attend off-site meetings, and travel throughout the region as needed. Early mornings and evenings are sometimes required for programs and events.
• A graduate of a chamber/association leadership program is a plus – WACE Academy, IOM or CAE certifications.

What Success Looks Like (First 12–18 Months)

• Double-digit growth in private-sector investment, sponsorships, and engagement
• A disciplined, CRM-driven investor pipeline with clear performance dashboards
• A fully launched and operational LEAD Metro North Foundation with diversified revenue streams
• Expanded influence of AC-REP across key industries and regional decision-makers

Benefits

• Salary range $70,000 to $80,000
• Comprehensive benefits package for employee including health, dental, and vision coverage
• Life insurance plus short and long-term disability fully covered
• 401(k) with 4% employer match after 90 days
• Annual team incentive program
• Paid time off eligible after 60 days of employment, plus sick leave
• 10 Federal holidays plus two personal days
• Paid Holiday office closure in December