Athletic Director

Overview

Vail Mountain School in Vail, Colorado is seeking a dedicated Athletic Director to lead and oversee its comprehensive athletics program. This leadership role requires supervision of staff and student engagement while ensuring compliance with the Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA) guidelines. The Athletic Director will promote sportsmanship, competitive excellence, and foster a supportive environment aligned with school values.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the entire athletic program under the Assistant Head of School's supervision.
• Ensure adherence to all VMS athletic policies and CHSAA regulations.
• Maintain student-athlete eligibility and compliance with participation requirements.
• Develop and coordinate interscholastic athletic schedules, including transportation and event logistics.
• Supervise athletic contests and serve as tournament manager for league and playoff events.
• Promote the athletics program internally and externally through approved communication channels.
• Manage athletic budgets, purchasing, and facility usage in collaboration with school leadership.
• Maintain a culture of sportsmanship and inclusivity across all programs.
• Liaise with CHSAA, league athletic directors, district administration, and community partners.
• Update and maintain the athletics handbook and accurate records including eligibility, medical documents, equipment, contracts, and history.
• Oversee the Physical Education department as Chairperson.
• Recruit, hire, train, and supervise coaching staff, ensuring required certifications are maintained.
• Address personnel matters and conflicts alongside site leadership.
• Coordinate athletic facility schedules, access, and supervision.
• Manage game day operations including facilities setup, security, parking, and administrative duties.
• Arrange transportation, lodging, and logistical support for athletic travel.
• Attend athletic league and state meetings, representing the school.

Candidate Profile

• Possesses in-depth knowledge of athletic programs and CHSAA rules.
• Strong leadership, communication, public speaking, and conflict resolution skills.
• Capable of complex schedule management and fostering high-quality athletic programming.
• Experienced strategic thinker focused on program sustainability and equity.
• Technologically proficient with scheduling and communication software.
• Motivates staff and students, encouraging family and community involvement.
• Willing to actively participate in school life beyond athletics, including events and extracurricular activities.
• Committed to building an inclusive workplace grounded in equitable policies.
• Effective and professional communicator with students, parents, staff, and volunteers.
• Comfortable leading groups in traditional and outdoor athletic settings.
• Flexible to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as athletic events require.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year institution.
• At least five years of high school coaching experience, including two as a head coach.
• Three or more years as an Athletic Director within independent schools.
• CHSAA Certification required; additional certifications like NIAAA advantageous.
• Valid driver’s license with ability to operate 15-passenger vans and small buses.
• Training provided if certification is not yet acquired.

About Vail Mountain School

As Vail's premier independent K-12 school, Vail Mountain School is dedicated to experiential learning and outdoor education. Committed to fostering community, diversity, and professional growth, the School offers competitive compensation and benefits, including medical, dental, vision, wellness allowances, and development opportunities.

Additional Information

• Location: Vail, Colorado
• Employment Type: Full-time, onsite
• Salary Range: $85,000 to $105,000 per year
• The role requires participation in school events beyond traditional work hours.
• Equal opportunity employer promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion across race, ability, gender, national origin, religion, and sexual orientation.