Job Details

About Us

Kripalu Center is the largest yoga and wellness retreat center in the US. Kripalu is a nonprofit educational organization dedicated to serving people and communities in realizing their full potential through the transformative wisdom and practice of Yoga. Rooted in yoga, mindfulness and holistic wellness, Kripalu creates pathways for personal and collective transformation through experiential learning. Kripalu's campus is in the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts

Kripalu offers a wide range of experiences for guests, ranging from day passes to multi-day programs and including signature programming and training developed by Kripalu, online programs, multi day group events, and programming delivered by visiting talent (thought leaders, presenters, and luminaries). This role is responsible for the creative vision and the business outcomes for the programming delivered by visiting talent.

Kripalu is committed to being an employer and community that prioritizes creating a sense of belonging for all employees, presenters, and guests. We seek employees eager to join us as we evolve as a team that embodies timeless yogic principles and present-day practices of leadership and accountability.

Department Summary

This programming department curates multi-day innovative, mission-aligned experiential programs and trainings led by renowned talent, such as teachers, presenters, and thinkers. Kripalu's programming reflects the evolving interests of our guests and audience in seven program content themes: Yoga, Spirituality, and Ancient Wisdom; Embodiment and Movement; Creativity and Expression; Nature and Earth-based Wisdom; Healing and Wholeness; Relationships and Connection; and Leadership and Collective Transformation.

Position Summary

The Director of Visiting Talent and Program Curation is a strategic and visionary leader who oversees $8+ million in revenue. This role is responsible for overseeing program strategy and curation, presenter outreach and recruitment, and the development of this programming area. Additionally, the role is accountable for cultivating strong and lasting relationships with marquee presenters; maintaining or exceeding the profit contribution of the area; and ensuring that Kripalu remains at the forefront of the yoga, wellness, and mindfulness movements. This position directly oversees the Senior Manager of Programming, who manages a team of 3 core programmers and 3 program administrators and works cross-functionally to ensure the seamless planning and delivery of 350-400 programs at Kripalu annually.

Schedule

• Regular on-campus presence required
• Hybrid or remote flexibility, as appropriate for business needs
• Evening and weekend presence during campus-based marquee programming is expected, as well as periodic travel for relevant meetings and events

• Lead the development of a comprehensive visiting talent program strategy that supports Kripalu's mission, financial goals, and vision for innovation
• Identify and connect with leading voices in the core areas we serve to engage them in presenting at Kripalu. Serve as key liaison to marquee presenters, fostering loyalty and collaboration
• Oversee the vetting and booking process for new and returning presenters
• Collaborate with Marketing to develop effective promotional strategies leveraging presenter networks and Kripalu platforms
• Provide leadership and mentorship to the programming team, fostering a collaborative and creative environment
• Manage high-stakes and sensitive negotiations, legal matters, presenter honoraria/terms, with commitment to Kripalu's values, profit margin, Sustainability, and accessibility
• Continue work to 'right-size' department for current times, balancing revenue potential and Kripalu strategic priorities
• Manage departmental budgeting, forecasting, and reporting with strategic oversight and recommend adjustments to achieve goals

• Strategic entrepreneurial thinker with the ability to forecast trends, align program offerings with organizational goals, and manage a profit center of the organization
• Strong business acumen including consideration of pricing and marketing strategies, thematic curation approaches, new talent stream recruitment and development, and adept negotiation skills
• Experience building and negotiating long term relationships with high profile presenters, authors, and thought leaders
• Visionary and inspirational leader who fosters team collaboration and innovation
• Skilled relationship builder with an equity-centric mindset
• Strong organizational and communication skills; able to balance creative vision with operational realities
• Resilient, adaptable, with a commitment to professional growth
• Deep integrity and alignment with Kripalu's vision and core values

• 7+ years of entrepreneurial and leadership/management experience in wellness, retreat centers, performing arts, or related industries
• Familiarity with Kripalu's programming areas including Yoga, mindfulness, integrative health, spirituality, nature-based and ancient wisdom traditions
• Background in working with presenters, speakers, facilitators, authors, and/or thought leaders in areas reflected in Kripalu's program themes
• Success in innovative program curation and execution
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building abilities
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and digital collaboration tools.

• Understanding of marketing and promotional strategies
• Insight into pricing strategies and equitable access / business models

• Experience in facilitation or content development / curation
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent