Director of Programming

Chicago, IL
Full Time
Mid Level

Why Lakeshore – A Place to Grow, Play, and Lead

At Lakeshore Sport & Fitness, we’re proud to be Chicago’s #1 destination for sport, fitness, and fun—but what truly sets us apart is our people. From toddlers taking their first swim lesson to adults training for their next triathlon, we’re a vibrant community built on connection, energy, and excellence.

We lead with our values: Professionalism, Quality, Team, Ownership, and Celebration. Whether it’s launching a new kids’ camp, fine-tuning a tennis league, or developing fresh group fitness offerings, we show up with heart and high standards to create experiences our members love.

Your Game Plan – Director of Programming (Youth, Adult & Family Focus)

As Director of Programming, you’ll lead the strategy, creativity, and execution behind the programs that define the Lakeshore experience. From youth camps and family events to tennis leagues, personal training, and group fitness classes, you’ll ensure everything we offer is engaging, well-run, and aligned with our mission.

This is a dynamic, people-centered leadership role. You’ll oversee a talented team of coaches, instructors, and supervisors across a variety of departments, working collaboratively to ensure quality, consistency, and community in every class, session, or event.

Your Role on the Team

  • Lead the vision and day-to-day operations of programming across youth, adult, and family offerings

  • Oversee departments including Childcare, Camps, Youth Programs, Group Fitness, Personal Training, and Racquet Sports

  • Develop and manage a strong team of instructors, coaches, and department leads

  • Design programs that are mission-driven, inclusive, and member-focused

  • Collaborate with marketing to promote offerings and track participation and trends

  • Ensure all programs run smoothly, safely, and with a focus on service excellence

  • Build systems for training, communication, and team accountability

  • Be highly visible—connecting with members, supporting your team, and fine-tuning the member experience

What You Bring – Your Strengths

  • A passion for both youth development and adult fitness & recreation

  • Experience creating and managing a wide range of programs across ages and interests

  • Strong leadership and communication skills—you inspire and elevate your team

  • A strategic mindset—you balance the big picture with on-the-ground presence

  • A talent for systems thinking, team coaching, and solving problems proactively

  • A desire to build something great—and the ability to make it happen

Core Qualifications

  • 5+ years of leadership experience in recreation, fitness, or hospitality

  • Experience managing multi-generational programming and diverse departments

  • Strong operational skills including budgeting, scheduling, and program analysis

  • A track record of building engaged teams and excellent member experiences

  • Willingness to work a flexible schedule that includes evenings/weekends

Team Member Experience

Lakeshore isn’t just a place to work—it’s a place to thrive. As a leader on our team, you’ll gain hands-on experience running diverse programming, grow alongside passionate colleagues, and play a key role in shaping how our members experience wellness, fun, and community every day.

Compensation & Perks

  • Salary Range: $65,000–$85,000 annually, depending on experience

  • Bonuses: Quarterly performance-based bonuses

  • Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, life, disability, 401(k), and PTO

  • Club Perks: Free family membership, complimentary childcare for team member children, 50% off services, discounted meals, and free parking

  • Culture & Growth: A high-energy, people-first environment with seasonal team events, development opportunities, and a strong sense of purpose

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