Summary of Position 

The Executive Director of the Ready to Work (RTW) Academy leads the strategic design and implementation of BGCB’s preteen workforce readiness strategy for members ages 11–14. This role centers on preparing preteens to navigate adolescence and future workforce pathways with confidence, curiosity, and competence. 

With oversight of a team of six RTW Exploration Specialists, the Club Director at Franklin Hill Club and the Club Director at Orchard Gardens Boys & Girls Club, the Executive Director will be responsible for delivering engaging, age-appropriate programming that emphasizes career exploration, early-stage entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and soft skill development. This role also includes oversight of afterschool and summer camp programming at Orchard Gardens and Franklin Hill. 

A signature component of this work includes launching and managing the RTW Saturday Academy and building a strong pipeline into BGCB’s teen RTW University. The Executive Director plays a key leadership role across Club sites, ensuring consistent quality, program fidelity, partner engagement, and outcome tracking across all RTW Academy initiatives. 

Key Responsibilities 

Program Design and Strategic Execution 

• Lead the development and implementation of RTW Academy programming, ensuring alignment with BGCB’s Ready to Work vision and strategic goals. 

• Design a sequenced, scaffolded curriculum for preteens that introduces key life and career skills across grades 6–8. 

• Build and manage a Saturday Academy program focused on community service, entrepreneurship, and career awareness. 

• Oversee the afterschool and summer camp programming at Orchard Gardens Boys & Girls and the Franklin Hill Clubs. 

Entrepreneurship, Career Planning, and Exposure 

• Develop early entrepreneurship experiences such as pop-up shops, budgeting simulations, and mini ventures. 

• Facilitate career exploration opportunities, including guest speakers, workplace visits, and interest-based projects. 

• Provide foundational career planning support such as goal-setting, interest inventories, and personal branding. 

Measurement, Outcomes, and Case Management 

• Work with the Associate Vice President of Work Readiness and the Evaluation & Outcomes Team to define clear metrics for success and impact. 

• Assist in the development of a case management system to track participation, growth, and outcomes. 

• Compile program data and generate reports on preteen member development and program effectiveness. 

Staff Supervision and Professional Development 

• Directly supervise six RTW Exploration Specialists, the Club Director at Orchard Gardens Boys & Girls Club and the Club Director of the Franklin Hill Boys & Girls Club. 

• Provide training and professional development aligned with best practices in preteen engagement and youth development. 

• Lead regular team meetings and ensure coordination across Club sites. 

Partnership and Stakeholder Engagement 

• Cultivate partnerships with employers, educational institutions, and community organizations to enhance career and service-learning opportunities. 

• Engage the trades and non-traditional career sectors in collaboration with internal BGCB Pathway Directors. 

• Collaborate with Marketing to promote RTW Academy internally and externally. 

Internal Collaboration 

• Serve as a key partner to Club leadership teams, especially Preteen Coordinators, Program Directors, and Club Directors. 

• Work closely with the Program & Impact Team, Human Resources, Development, and Operations to integrate RTW Academy goals with broader organizational initiatives. 

Volunteer and Community Engagement 

• Collaborate with the Development team to create meaningful volunteer opportunities that support RTW programming. 

• Represent BGCB and the RTW Academy at community events, employer convenings, and local workforce readiness forums. 

General BGCB Expectations 

• Healthy Behavior Modeling: All staff are expected to model active, healthy lifestyles while working with youth. 

• Inclusive Environment: Embrace an inclusive Club environment where youth of all abilities feel welcomed and successful. 

• Continuous Learning: Participate in annual professional development opportunities to enhance youth development practice. 

• Safe Spaces: Uphold BGCB’s commitment to safety, ensuring all environments remain free of physical, sexual, or emotional abuse. 

Position Requirements 

• Bachelor’s degree in education, youth development, social work, or related field required; Master’s degree preferred. 

• Minimum of five years’ experience in youth development, middle school enrichment, or workforce readiness programs. 

• Minimum of three years’ supervisory experience, ideally with site-based teams. 

• Deep understanding of adolescent development, especially for ages 11–14. 

• Strong skills in program design, curriculum development, and team leadership. 

• Demonstrated experience working with diverse youth populations and commitment to equity and inclusion. 

• Effective communicator with ability to engage a variety of stakeholders: youth, families, community partners, and Club staff. 

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and experience with case management or data tracking systems preferred. 

• Valid driver’s license required; occasional local travel may be necessary