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Senior Program Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hammer & NER

Program Director

Wayzata, MN · Hybrid

$69K/yr

Senior Director of Program Services and Senior Director of Program Operations Supervisory Responsibilities: Manages the Program Managers of assigned sites. Typical Schedule: Primarily M-F Days.

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine

In collaboration with the Senior Program Director, develops program and project strategies and budgets, supervises staff, and ensures activities achieve their objectives. Drawing on in-depth ...

YMCA

Senior Program Director I South

Wichita, KS · On-site

The Senior Program Director acts as a liaison to the community at large advocating for YMCA programs and events as directed, and provides support to the Branch Director for all branch needs. An ...

Exavalu

Program Director

Program Director Remote Job Overview Seeking a senior Program Director with 15-20 years of experience, including 10+ years managing large, complex, multi-vendor integration programs with aggressive ...

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Senior Program Director information

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$39K

$115.2K

$155.5K

How much do senior program director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior program director in the United States is $115,154.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,000.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior program director?

Senior Program Directors are high-level managers responsible for overseeing multiple projects or programs within an organization. They provide strategic direction, ensure alignment with organizational goals, and manage teams of project managers or program coordinators. Their duties include budgeting, stakeholder communication, performance monitoring, and risk management. Senior Program Directors play a critical role in ensuring that programs are delivered on time, within scope, and meet the expected outcomes.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a senior program director?

To thrive as a Senior Program Director, you need extensive experience in program management, strategic planning, and leadership, typically supported by an advanced degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with project management tools (such as MS Project or Asana), budgeting software, and sometimes certifications like PMP or PgMP are highly valued. Exceptional communication, negotiation, and team-building skills set standout leaders apart in this role. These capabilities are crucial for effectively overseeing complex programs, ensuring alignment with organizational goals, and leading cross-functional teams to achieve successful outcomes.

How does a senior program director typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure program success?

Senior Program Directors play a crucial role in aligning multiple departments—such as product development, marketing, finance, and operations—toward common program goals. They facilitate regular meetings, set clear expectations, and coordinate resources to address challenges and keep projects on track. Effective communication and relationship-building are essential, as the director must balance the needs and perspectives of various stakeholders while maintaining focus on overarching objectives. By fostering collaboration, they help ensure that projects are delivered on time, within scope, and to a high standard.

What is the difference between Senior Program Director vs Program Manager?

AspectSenior Program DirectorProgram Manager
CredentialsOften requires advanced degrees (e.g., MBA, PMP) and extensive experienceTypically requires a bachelor's degree; PMP or related certifications are common
Work EnvironmentStrategic leadership, overseeing multiple programs or departmentsOperational focus, managing specific projects or programs
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in large organizations, nonprofits, government agenciesCommon across various industries, including corporate, tech, and healthcare
Search & Comparison IntentHigh-level strategic roles, leadership responsibilitiesProject execution, day-to-day management

The main difference between a Senior Program Director and a Program Manager lies in scope and responsibility. Senior Program Directors focus on strategic oversight and leadership across multiple programs, often requiring advanced credentials and extensive experience. Program Managers handle specific projects, focusing on execution and operational management. Both roles are vital but differ in their level of strategic involvement and organizational impact.

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Senior Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Program Director job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,154 per year, or $55.4 per hour.

Senior Program Director Membership & Health W

Greater Providence YMCA

South Kingstown, RI • On-site

$58K - $64K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Position Summary

The Senior Program Director (Membership & Wellness) provides strategic and operational leadership for membership growth, retention, and health and wellness programming in alignment with the YMCA’s mission and community impact goals. This role oversees membership services, wellness programs, and staff teams to ensure high-quality experience, strong financial performance, and meaningful community engagement.

Reporting to Branch Executive Director, the Senior Program Director develops and executes operating plans, leads staff and volunteers, cultivates community and corporate partnerships, and supports philanthropic and volunteer initiatives. This position serves as a cause-driven leader and champion of YMCA values.

Essential Duties

• Lead membership and program sales efforts by establishing enrollment goals, monitoring performance, and implementing strategies to achieve membership, retention, and program revenue targets.
• Promote a welcoming, inclusive, and mission-driven environment for members, guests, and participants.
• Establish and maintain service standards across membership, front desk, and wellness operations.
• Resolve member concerns promptly and professionally, exercising sound judgment and conflict-management skills.
• Develop and implement annual operating plans that support growth, engagement, and financial goals.
• Analyze membership, participation, sales, and financial data to evaluate effectiveness and guide planning.
• Ensure proper staffing, scheduling, and training to support high-quality service and effective sales conversations.
• Collaborate with marketing and development teams on outreach, enrollment, and engagement initiatives.
• Serve as a staff liaison to volunteer committees or advisory groups as assigned.
• Provide leadership and support to the YMCA Annual Support Campaign and other philanthropic initiatives.
• Interpret and communicate YMCA mission, policies, and values to staff, members, volunteers, and community partners.
• Demonstrate a strong understanding of YMCA focus areas: Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility.
• Participate in branch and Association-wide initiatives and perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education & Experience
• Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science, Health Promotion, Business Admin, Marketing, Recreation Management, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Four (4) or more years of progressively responsible experience in a YMCA or other nonprofit organization in aquatics, health & wellness, membership, or related program management.
• Minimum of two (2) years of supervisory experience, including staff and volunteer leadership.
• Demonstrated success in staff leadership, program development, member/customer service, and building authentic relationships with members, staff, and community partners.
• Experience managing program budgets, marketing and public relations efforts, fundraising initiatives, and cross-sector community collaborations.
• Strong leadership, organizational, analytical, and communication skills, including public speaking and data-informed decision-making.

Certifications & Training
• Completion of all YMCA-required trainings and certifications within designated timeframes.
• Current CPR, AED, and First Aid certifications required.
• Required wellness certifications relevant to the role (e.g., ACSM, ACE, NASM, NSCA).
• YMCA Team Leader or Multi-Team Leader certification preferred.
• Training or demonstrated competency in Active Listening and member engagement preferred.