Director of Equestrian Operations & Adventure
Full TimeJob Description
Please note, to be considered for this role, applicants should have prior experience leading or managing both Equestrian/Horseback programs, as well as Outdoor Recreation Management/Guide/Activities. Those who have done so successfully in a luxury hospitality environment will be considered with priority.
*Job Description – Adventure Director*
_Cataloochee Ranch is a Relais & Châteaux resort that mixes classic ranch fun with exceptional accommodations and cuisine. Founded almost a hundred years ago by the Alexander family, Cataloochee Ranch has been a favorite mountain getaway for generations of high-country adventurers. Spread across hundreds of acres along the southeastern border of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the property’s breathtaking elevation, open balds, and long-range views are complemented by classic comforts, perfectly rustic cuisine, humble hospitality, and hands-on, expert-led activities._
*Job Description – Adventure Director*
*Cataloochee Ranch – A Relais & Châteaux Property*
*Overview*
Cataloochee Ranch is a Relais & Châteaux resort that blends classic ranch adventure with luxurious comfort and heartfelt hospitality. Founded nearly a century ago by the Alexander family, the Ranch has long been a haven for high-country adventurers, offering breathtaking elevations, open balds, and timeless views along the southeastern border of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
The *Adventure Director* is responsible for the leadership, safety, innovation, and financial performance of the Ranch’s adventure offerings — including the *Equestrian Program, Challenge Course, Hiking & Nature Experiences, UTV tours, Bovine Operations, Fishing, and BullsEye Target Range*. This senior role drives the Ranch’s legacy of outdoor excellence, ensuring every guest experience honors our heritage while elevating our standards of discovery, safety, and delight.
The Adventure Director is both a visionary and a steward — accountable for *team development, fiscal oversight, guest satisfaction, animal welfare, capital improvements, and program innovation* across the adventure division.
*Work Performed*
To lead in a way which supports and strengthens our Mission Statement: “Improving lives through genuine care,” and our Core Values: *Respect* for our guests, each other, and this special place; *Authentic* service and intentional interactions; *Nurturing* souls; *Creating opportunities for adventure;* and *Honoring* the history and the story.
*Leadership & Culture*
* Lead the Adventure Team with authenticity, intention, and innovation — modeling the Ranch’s Mission Statement and core values in every interaction.
* Create and sustain a culture of safety, kindness, and respect for people, animals, and nature.
* Mentor, coach, and develop team members across all adventure programs, fostering leadership and growth.
* Partner closely with the General Manager and other department heads to ensure a cohesive, guest-centered resort experience.
· Conduct weekly one-on-one meetings with the team, identifying opportunities for growth, development, recognition, innovation, challenges and solutions.
*Operations & Program Oversight*
* Oversee daily operations of all adventure offerings: Equestrian, Challenge Course, Hiking, UTV Tours, Bovine Operations, and BullsEye target practice.
* Ensure all programs operate safely, effectively, and in alignment with Cataloochee Ranch’s brand and Relais & Châteaux standards.
* Supervise animal welfare, equipment maintenance, scheduling, training, and compliance with all safety and regulatory standards.
* Maintain and enhance standard operating procedures, guest experience guides, and training materials.
* Act as the on-site expert in adventure hospitality — available, visible, and hands-on in the field.
*Fiscal & Capital Management*
* Develop, manage, and monitor the adventure team budget, including revenue targets, expenses, and capital planning.
* Oversee purchasing, equipment acquisition, and animal care expenditures with fiscal responsibility and foresight.
* Lead planning and execution of *capital projects*, including trail development, new horse acquisitions, and facility improvements.
* Seek innovative growth opportunities — expanding offerings that align with guest demand, safety, and brand positioning.
*Guest Experience & Programming*
* Design and deliver programs that create unforgettable moments of discovery and connection with nature.
* Lead and support the team in facilitating memorable trail rides, guided hikes, challenge course experiences, and special events.
* Anticipate and resolve guest needs or concerns with professionalism and grace.
* Collaborate with marketing and events teams to create signature adventure experiences that reflect the Ranch’s story and sense of place.
*Team Development & Collaboration*
* Recruit, hire, train, and evaluate supervisors, instructors, and guides across the Adventure Team.
* Foster a learning environment that emphasizes leadership, safety, and guest engagement.
* Hold regular departmental meetings to communicate updates, expectations, and training opportunities.
* Work collaboratively with Culinary, Dining services, Special Events, and Guest Services to align programming and service touchpoints.
*Additional Responsibilities*
* Uphold all safety, legal, and environmental standards as required by local, state, and federal agencies.
* Support resort-wide initiatives, guest events, and operational excellence efforts.
* Act as Ranch Manager on Duty when assigned.
* Serve as an ambassador for the Ranch’s history, values, and mission in all community and guest interactions.
*Supervision Exercised*
Adventure Managers, Equestrian Team, Challenge Course Staff, Hiking and Target Practice Instructors, Cattle Manager, and Operational Team Members.
*Supervision Received*
General Manager
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From $70,000.00 per year
Application Question(s):
* Outdoor/Recreation Management Experience
* Horseback or Equestrian Facility Management Experience
Work Location: In person
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*Job was aggregated from Indeed.com*
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