Position Description: Executive Director, Mar-Lu-Ridge
Primary Function:
Under the direction of the Board of Directors, the Executive Director will strive to fulfill the mission of Mar-Lu-Ridge. Through leadership and by example, the Director will develop and coordinate a strong sense of teamwork among the staff, manage the staff, property, and financial resources, work to grow the financial resources, and guide both the long- and short-term planning process. Effective communication within the organization, as well as with outside constituencies, and program development and management are also required.
Principle Responsibilities:
Administrative:
- Make every effort to operate within the proposed budget, carefully considering finances and the best use of monetary resources
- Oversee daily operations, and manage financial transactions such as purchases
- Provide adequate and fair insurance, pension, legal assistance and a safe work environment for all employees. Meet the standards of all regulatory agencies, including ACA and federal government
- Conduct annual review of internal and external expenses
- Serve as primary contact person in case of emergency. Maintain certifications which are beneficial to position, and allow for temporary replacement of staff in their absence
- Oversee facility maintenance and prioritize improvements
External Relations:
- Offer enthusiastic support for the vision of Mar-Lu-Ridge and its programs, and convey that at gatherings of those familiar or unfamiliar with our ministry
- Be involved with Lutheran Outdoor Ministries and have awareness of our place and purpose within that body
- Build upon relations with Synods of DE-MD and Metro DC, churches, community, and other ministries of the church
- Develop programs, promote them and follow up as to their effectiveness within the guidelines of our mission statement
- Use publicity in such a way as to promote greater awareness of MLR, its accommodations, programs, and availability to everyone
Financial Planning and Fundraising:
- Organize, improve and implement annual fund drives
- Solicit donations from individuals, churches, Thrivent funds, grants, and outside organizations to increase income for the long and short term
- Prioritize maintenance and manage funds to pay for such
- Assist in budget preparation, program review and planning
- Be aware of financial matters and have a firm understanding of expenses versus income
- Daily management of income (bank deposits) and bill paying
Staff Management:
- By example, lead a team that maintains and expands the mission of Mar-Lu-Ridge each day
- When necessary, adjust staffing based on budget requirements
- Conduct regular staff meetings and evaluations, support staff in any way possible, maintain personnel records
- Function as staff liaison to Board, and serve as member of Board committees
- Work along with the Associate Director to develop, maintain and improve our programs, including review and approval of summer camp schedule and calendar of events
- Develop relationships with outside organizations and consider ways to work in partnership
- Participate in Lutheran Outdoor Ministries for continuing education, training and leadership development
Direction/Guidance Received:
- Work without direct supervision
- Accountable to Board of Directors
- Provide regular reports and updates on financial, operational, and strategic matters
- Assist in Board development, governance, and training efforts.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Experience: Christian outdoor ministry experience, management skills/experience
- Non-profit leadership experience preferred
Skills and Characteristics:
- Excellent verbal and written skills
- Computer literate
- Self-motivated and unafraid to work alone
- Planning and organizational skills
- A good communicator
- Relates well to people of all ages and backgrounds
- Physically capable of work related to outdoor ministry
- Patience
- Strong commitment to Christ and ability to share faith with others
- Role model and mentor to staff
- Commitment to stewardship of Creation
- Supportive of MLR’s Reconciling in Christ partner status
- Theology: Accept and adhere to confessions of faith, ELCA statements of belief, ready to develop and nurture a deeper faith in others through example and leadership.
- Other: Valid driver’s license, personal vehicle, CPR/First Aid and other certifications as appropriate. Background check and sexual registry clearance..
Compensation and Benefits:
- Salary range: Competitive and commensurate with experience
- Employer paid health insurance for the employee and dependants
- On-site housing as needed
- Retirement contribution matching
- Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, family leave, and holidays
- Professional development support
Please submit a cover letter, resume and supporting paperwork to:
DE MD Synod Office
Attention Cindy VanVliet
Email: cvanvliet@demdsynod.org
Questions: 410-230-2860
Deadline for submissions: August 10, 2025
Mar-Lu-Ridge is committed to a selection process that welcomes all. All applicants are entitled to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, religion, gender identity, age, disability, or other protected characteristics.
Hiring Committee 6/2025
