Director of Mission Programs

The Western Stock Show Association • Denver, CO

7d • Onsite

About The Position

The Director of Mission Programs is responsible for the development, implementation, and management of year-round mission-driven programming within the Legacy Building. This role advances the mission of the National Western Stock Show by delivering impactful agriculture education, Western heritage experiences, youth programming, and community engagement initiatives. The Director will activate mission-driven programming for agriculture, education, and cultural programming by curating a diverse calendar of events and experiences that connect the public to the Western way of life. This position works cross-functionally to align programming with organizational priorities, partnerships, and revenue opportunities.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Education, Event Management, Nonprofit Management, or a related field.
• 3–5+ years of experience in program development, education, event management, or agriculture-related programming.
• Demonstrated experience managing multiple programs or events simultaneously.
• Experience building partnerships and working with community or industry stakeholders.
• Knowledge of agriculture, Western heritage, or youth education programming preferred.
• Key Competencies: Program development and strategic thinking, Event planning and execution, Partnership and relationship management, Communication and collaboration, Mission-driven leadership

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of agriculture, Western heritage, or youth education programming preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive year-year programming strategy focused on: Agriculture education and industry engagement, including working with the International Committee and international guests during the National Western Stock Show.
• Engage with various commodity groups, agriculture promotion groups, Colorado State University, junior colleges, and others to support public and private events in The Legacy.
• Youth leadership and educational programs
• Western heritage and cultural experiences, including the World Heritage Center and Women of the National Western events like Cowgirls & Cocktails
• Public engagement and community programming specifically to connect rural and urban communities.
• Ensure all programming aligns with the mission and strategic priorities of the organization.
• Oversee Scholarship Development, including management of 1 staff member, program development, and new opportunities. This will work closely with the Donor Development Department.
• Plan and manage a diverse calendar of mission-driven events, including: Educational workshops and seminars, Agriculture and industry programming, Youth camps, leadership programs, and school partnerships, Cultural and Western heritage experiences
• Oversee logistics including scheduling, vendor coordination, staffing, and on-site execution.
• Partner with internal teams to ensure high-quality program delivery.
• Develop a comprehensive year-round calendar of activities and programs to support all mission-driven initiatives.
• Establish and maintain partnerships with: Agricultural organizations and industry leaders, Educational institutions (including universities and K-12 programs), Western heritage and cultural groups, Community organizations and nonprofits
• Leverage partnerships to expand programming reach and impact.
• Develop revenue-generating opportunities through ticketed programs and sponsored events.
• Collaborate with sponsorship and development teams to secure funding for mission programs.
• Balance mission delivery with the financial sustainability of programming.
• Work closely with agriculture, marketing, sponsorship, and development teams to align programming with broader organizational goals.
• Support integration of Legacy programming with National Western Stock Show initiatives and year-round campus activities.
• Coordinate with operations and guest services to ensure a high-quality visitor experience.
• Position the National Western as a regional and national destination for agriculture education and Western heritage.
• Develop outreach strategies to engage schools, families, and the broader community.
• Promote inclusive and accessible programming that connects diverse audiences to agriculture and Western culture.

Benefits

• Partial paid Medical, Dental, Vision, and life insurance for the employee
• Family coverage is available at group rates.
• Voluntary benefits, including Accident, Critical Illness, Short-Term Disability, and Hospital Indemnity.
• 100% paid Long-Term Disability.
• Paid sick leave and vacation time.
• Competitive 401(k) retirement plan

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director