Job Description

The Equestrian Director serves as the Head of the Equestrian Department, providing strategic leadership for equestrian operations, staff teams, herd management systems, and program growth across Frost Valley’s equestrian facilities. This role is responsible for setting direction, building systems, leading people, and executing a long-term vision for a dynamic and evolving equestrian program. While executing some aspects of a traditional barn manage, the Equestrian Director focuses on decision-making, structure, staff leadership, and program development, ensuring that day-to-day operations are carried out effectively by trained staff teams. The Director oversees a year round herd that grows during summer months of approximately 20–90 horses, equestrian facilities, and a multidisciplinary staff team, while actively identifying opportunities to expand offerings, strengthen community connections, and position the program as a regional equestrian resource. This role is ideal for a driven, forward-thinking equestrian professional who is excited by growth, innovation, and leadership, and who wants the opportunity to build, evolve, and expand a department.

Requirements

ESSENTIAL FUNCTION:

Department Leadership & Vision

• Serve as the Head of the Equestrian Department, setting strategic direction and priorities for herd management, staffing, facilities, and programming
• Develop and execute a clear vision for the growth and evolution of equestrian programs, balancing safety, sustainability, and innovation
• Establish and refine systems that support efficient operations, consistent decision-making, and high-quality outcomes
• Represent the equestrian department internally and externally, building trust and visibility across the organization and community

Herd Management & Equine Systems

• Provide oversight (occasionally daily execution) of herd management for a year round population 20 horses; seasonal population 90 horses
• Design and maintain systems for veterinary care, farrier schedules, conditioning, turnout, feeding coordination, and seasonal transitions
• Make strategic decisions regarding horse use, placement, acquisition, retirement, sale, or reassignment based on temperament, training, and welfare
• Ensure accurate recordkeeping related to horse health, workload, training status, and utilization
• Staff Leadership & Team Management
• Lead, supervise, and develop a team of year-round and seasonal equestrian staff, including barn managers, instructors, and weekend staff
• Set clear expectations, roles, and accountability structures so staff can effectively manage daily operations
• Focus on coaching, professional growth, and performance management rather than routine task completion
• Foster a strong, safety-centered, and inclusive team culture rooted in communication, trust, and shared responsibility

Program Growth, Innovation & Community Engagement

• Identify and develop new equestrian opportunities that expand access, participation, and impact, including but not limited to:
• Hosting outside clinics and specialty workshops
• Developing trail riding programs for varied experience levels
• Offering community lesson programs
• Launching student or entry-level horse shows
• Creating corporate or group team-building experiences involving horses
• Build and maintain relationships with local trainers, equestrians, schools, and organizations
• Position the equestrian program as a community-facing asset and regional destination

Facilities, Risk & Operational Oversight

• Provide strategic oversight of barns, pastures, fencing, equipment, and equestrian facilities
• Coordinate with maintenance and operations teams to ensure facilities meet safety, welfare, and industry standards
• Ensure compliance with applicable equestrian and safety standards (CHA, ACA, DOH, etc.)
• Proactively manage risk related to horses, facilities, staff practices, and participant engagement
• Financial & Strategic Planning
• Develop and manage the equestrian department budget, with attention to sustainability and growth
• Identify opportunities for revenue generation and program expansion
• Contribute to long-term planning for facilities, herd sustainability, and program development

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Equine Studies, Animal Science, Education, Recreation, or a related field preferred; equivalent professional experience considered
• 3–5+ years of progressive leadership experience in the equestrian industry, including herd management and staff supervision
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams, build systems, and manage complex operations
• Experience developing or expanding equestrian programs beyond traditional instruction
• Strong communication, organizational, and decision-making skills
• Certification from a nationally recognized equestrian organization (CHA or equivalent) preferred
• First Aid/CPR certification (or willingness to obtain)
• Valid driver’s license and ability to meet organizational driving requirements

WHY THIS ROLE:

This position offers the opportunity to shape and grow a full equestrian department, lead people rather than just tasks, and bring innovative ideas to life. The Equestrian Director will have meaningful influence, creative freedom, and the chance to build something lasting.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Physically able to lift up to 50 lbs and walk up to 10 miles a day
• The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 15 pounds
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS STATEMENT:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

FROST VALLEY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

PAY RANGE $62,353.00-$63,500.00 annually plus generous benefits onsite housing with the option of bringing a personal horse This position would start late June/early July

DEADLINE TO APPLY April 3, 2026

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