Group Leaders (Willamette Valley, Oregon)

When it comes to creating educational travel adventures that enrich the lives and fulfill the dreams of more than 100,000 people every year, there's no organization better than Road Scholar. What's our secret? Dedicated and talented staff who believe in our mission.

About the role...

As the onsite representative of Road Scholar, the Group Leader is responsible for delivering the published program itinerary as promised while maintaining flexibility in order to make adjustments due to unforeseen circumstances. Group Leaders will complement the program’s educational content with their destination knowledge to further engage participants. Primary objectives include delivering high-quality program experiences for all trip Participants, building professional relationships with vendors, and fostering a positive team environment with all contacts at Road Scholar. In-house professional development and training seminars are required as part of this position in the Road Scholar family. Seasonal training will be delivered to ensure the Group Leader remains current regarding all Road Scholar policies, procedures, safety protocols, and quality metrics.

This is a part-time/seasonal opportunity for various programs throughout the Oregon area. Due to the seasonal nature of the role, this position is not benefits eligible. Hourly rates vary based on program location which ranges from $15.00 to $23.00 per hour plus tips.

We are seeking Group Leaders who live in the program destination/region or has an intimate knowledge of the destination.

You will...

• Prior to the program start date, the Group Leader and Road Scholar will hold a pre-program briefing
• Review PIPs (Personal Information and Preferences form) and relevant Program Information
• Send Pre-Program Email to participants
• Lead and manage all logistics and responsible for supporting educational delivery and quality
• Conduct Airport meet & greet (when transfer is included)
• Facilitate hotel check-in and registration
• Reconfirm vendors & included activities (instructors, local guides, coach, restaurants, etc.)
• Conduct Orientation, Farewell Briefings, and Daily Wrap-up Briefings
• Listening Device Management
• Accompany participants to all scheduled program activities and be available to them 24-7 during the program
• Liaise with local guides and instructors to ensure content is presented in a clear and relevant manner; drive Q&A and educational impact with participants
• Disbursement of payment to vendors (including tips) and manage program budget
• Anticipate and resolve program issues on site including challenging participants, mobility concerns, dietary restrictions, vendor cancellations, missed activities, and weather events. This should be done in close liaison with Road Scholar
• Follow established emergency procedures and escalate issues to Road Scholar as necessary
• Adhere to Road Scholar branding guidelines regarding use of Road Scholar apparel & signage

You need...

• Bachelor's degree or relevant experience strongly preferred
• 1+ years group leadership experience in an educational and/or travel program environment; prior Elderhostel/Road Scholar experience preferred as well as experience working with individuals 55+ and handling different levels of physical ability preferred
• Preferably lives in the program destination/region or has an intimate knowledge of the destination
• Strong leadership skills to build group cohesion
• Sets clear expectations to participants
• Empowered to enhance impact of educational experiences
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving ability
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving abilities
• Strong communication skills and excellent command of English
• Ability to work with a team and collaborate and share best practices
• Empowered to enhance impact of educational experiences; set clear expectations to participants;
• Be capable of operating basic AV functions (setting up laptop/projector for lectures)
• Have access to reliable cell phone, capable of texting and/or emails. Road Scholar cannot require Group Leaders to have a Smart Phone, or similar, but it is our expectation that your cell phone has these capabilities
• Enhance “free time” opportunities through providing suggestions and organizing group dining opportunities

For serious consideration, please submit a cover letter with your resume telling us why you are interested in the position.

An Equal Opportunity Employer
Road Scholar values and supports individual differences and strives to create an environment that contributes to the success of both the individual and the organization. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we consider applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, pregnancy, illness, marital or veteran status or disability or any other status protected by applicable law.

To avoid fraudulent job postings and scammers posing as Road Scholar, we request that you only apply to jobs that are posted on the Road Scholar website & when completing an application please make sure the URL is from recruiting.ultipro.com.