Posts tagged executive director
Now Hiring: Executive Director role at Wanakee

Our community is entering an important transition, and we are grateful to share the official posting from the New England Conference of The United Methodist Church announcing the search for Wanakee’s next Executive Director. This role is essential in supporting the people, programs, and spiritual life that make Wanakee a beloved place of connection and transformation.

This job posting was originally published on the Job Opportunities page on the New England Conference of The United Methodist Church website and is shared here for the benefit of the Wanakee community.

Executive Director – Camp & Retreat Ministries

The New England Conference of The United Methodist Church (NEAC) is seeking an Executive Director for Wanakee in Meredith, NH, to lead our vibrant Camp and Retreat Ministries. These sites are sacred spaces where lives are transformed through Christian community, outdoor adventure, and spiritual growth.

About the Role

As Executive Director, you will provide visionary leadership, operational excellence, and spiritual guidance for your site. You’ll work closely with staff, boards, volunteers, and the wider NEAC community to ensure each camp thrives as a place of hospitality, faith formation, and renewal.

Key Responsibilities

  • Leadership & Vision: Inspire staff and volunteers, articulate the mission, and engage in strategic planning.

  • Program Oversight: Shape and evaluate spiritual formation, summer camps, retreats, and year-round programming.

  • Community Engagement: Build partnerships with churches, donors, and local organizations; serve as a visible ambassador.

  • Staff & Volunteer Development: Recruit, mentor, and empower teams to achieve excellence.

  • Financial Stewardship: Manage budgets, fundraising, and donor relations with transparency and accountability.

  • Safety & Compliance: Ensure ACA accreditation, risk management, and adherence to state/federal regulations.

Qualifications

  • Practicing and committed Christian with values aligned to the United Methodist Church.

  • Degree in a related field and substantial experience managing staff.

  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

  • Demonstrated ability to build relationships and partnerships.

  • Relevant certifications (ACA or equivalent) preferred.

  • Intangible qualities: enthusiasm, emotional maturity, spiritual wholeness, and the ability to connect with diverse groups.

What We Offer

  • The opportunity to lead one of NEAC’s beloved camp and retreat centers.

  • A supportive network of peers across four sites.

  • Continuing education and professional development.

  • The chance to make a lasting impact on generations of campers, retreat guests, and communities.

Locations

Wanakee (Meredith, NH)

How to Apply

Send your resume, cover letter, and references to Nicole Hanlon, HR/Benefits Manager, at Nhanlon@neumc.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Wanakee Announces Executive Director Transition

On behalf of the Wanakee Board of Directors, I am writing to share the news that Rev. Evan McElreath will be transitioning out of his role as our Executive Director over the next few months.

Evan and his wife, Katie, have made the decision to prioritize their family at this time. I know the entire Wanakee community will join me in supporting Evan’s choice and in wishing him, Katie, and Rosie God’s blessings in this next chapter of their lives.

Wanakee has been fortunate to have had Evan’s leadership over the past two summers. We are especially grateful for his efforts to increase the number of local clergy who have made Wanakee part of their summer ministry and for strengthening our relationships with many area churches. We know that many lives have been touched by his ministry here.

The Board’s priority is to ensure the operation of the camp transitions smoothly so that our ministry’s growth and success will continue. Leslie Drew, Wanakee’s Assistant Director, will be continuing in her role, and her knowledge, passion, and commitment will be instrumental during this time.

We will begin a search for the next Executive Director this week to lead Wanakee into its next chapter.

We will share more updates throughout this transition. For now, thank you for your continued support of our beloved camp and our important mission.

Grace and Peace,

Rev. Dr. John Whitley
Chair, Wanakee Board of Directors