Leadership Training Program Manager

Rural Economic Development•Raleigh, NC

About The Position

We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Leadership Training Program Manager to support the delivery of high-impact leadership and economic development training programs serving rural communities across North Carolina. This role is central to ensuring seamless program execution, meaningful participant engagement, and the continued growth of leadership networks throughout the state. In this position, you will take a hands-on lead in managing the full scope of program logistics—including coordinating travel arrangements, securing catering, preparing participant materials, and overseeing day-of event execution for both in-person and virtual sessions. You will serve as the operational backbone of our leadership training programs, ensuring every detail is thoughtfully planned and executed to create a high-quality participant experience. In addition to program coordination, this role may support the delivery of training through facilitation, co-facilitation, or presentation of select program content. The ideal candidate is not only operationally strong but also comfortable engaging groups, guiding discussions, and helping bring curriculum to life in a dynamic and impactful way. While the role is heavily focused on administration and execution, you will also serve as a collaborative strategic partner to the Director of Leadership Training, contributing insights and recommendations that support continuous program improvement and long-term impact. The ideal candidate excels at managing complex logistics, communicates effectively with diverse stakeholders, and brings a proactive, solutions-oriented mindset to both daily operations and program development. The Leadership Training Program Manager supports the planning, coordination, and delivery of statewide and regional leadership and economic development training programs serving rural communities across North Carolina. In close partnership with the Director of Leadership Training, this role manages program logistics, participant communications, and event execution for programs such as the Rural Economic Development Institute (REDI), Homegrown Leaders, and related alumni engagement initiatives. The Leadership Training Program Manager ensures a high-quality participant experience through strong organization, relationship-building, and effective program administration. This role supports both in-person and virtual training across the state and contributes to strengthening leadership networks within rural communities.

Requirements

Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships with program participants, trainers, consultants, and staff.
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
Excellent time management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to work independently and take initiative with minimal supervision.
Ability to coordinate complex logistics and manage multiple program events simultaneously.
Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
Familiarity with Salesforce, Constant Contact, or similar systems, or willingness to learn.
A bachelor’s degree in a related field is required.
Three or more years of experience in program coordination, event management, training programs, or a related professional role required.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with leadership development programs, training events, or nonprofit program management is preferred.

Responsibilities

Coordinate training logistics, including agendas, venues, catering, travel accommodations, materials, evaluations, and on-site support.
Manage multiple training events and program activities simultaneously while ensuring a high-quality participant experience.
Maintain and order training supplies and prepare participant materials, notebooks, and program resources.
Maintain and update participant and alumni records in the organization’s database (e.g., Salesforce).
Process vendor invoices, track program expenses, and assist with budget monitoring.
Capture notes and action items during virtual planning meetings with staff, trainers, and consultants.
Provide regular program updates and outcome reports to the Director of Leadership Training.
Communicate clearly and professionally with trainers, consultants, and program participants before, during, and after training events.
Collaborate with the Communications team to promote programs, update application and registration materials, and manage website event language.
Share relevant resources, updates, and opportunities with program alumni through digital platforms and alumni communications.
Develop a process for, and coordinate alumni engagement opportunities including networking events, webinars, and professional development sessions.
Assist with facilitating elements of training sessions, discussions, or engagement activities as appropriate.
Adapt to evolving program needs, timelines, and emerging initiatives with professionalism and flexibility.
Perform other related duties as assigned.