Executive Director

About Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa

Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa is a branch of Tibet House US, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to preserving Tibetan culture for Tibetans and sharing its beneficial arts and sciences with western audiences. Founded in NYC in 1987 by H.H. the XIV Dalai Lama, Bob and Nena Thurman, Richard Gere, and Philip Glass, Tibet House US offers programs on Tibetan Buddhism, meditation, and yoga and houses a unique collection of Tibetan art.

Tibet House US was given the Menla exquisite 330-acre hidden valley in the Catskill Nature Preserve to provide a country space to share Tibetans’ special insights into health and life. Menla provides a tranquil space for group retreats, wellness programs, and personal getaways. Drawing on Tibetan healing arts, it offers its own programs in Buddhist teachings and integrative healing practices to promote well-being as part of its mission. It also hosts many retreats sponsored by outside organizations.

Menla seeks a qualified Executive Director (E.D.) to lead its strategic growth and operations. Reporting to the Founders and Board of Directors and collaborating with the Executive Director of Tibet House US, the CEO will oversee strategic planning, program and financial management, staff leadership, community engagement, and fundraising.

Key responsibilities include working with the Board in crafting and executing a comprehensive 3–5-year growth strategy, expanding program offerings, optimizing operational efficiency, and exceeding annual financial targets through diverse funding sources such as programming, donations, etc. The ED will act as a liaison with the Board of Directors and collaborate with senior management to make strategic decisions that drive organizational success.

Primary Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement a 3-5 year strategic plan for growth, focusing on retreat management, financial sustainability, and program development.
• Collaborate with the Founders, Senior Management, and Board on organizational initiatives and strategic decisions.
• Lead and maintain an effective team at Menla dedicated to fulfilling the organization’s mission through successful programs and community engagement.

Operational Oversight

• Oversee and guide the retreat center's transition into a full-time healing and wellness center, focusing on mission-based programs, personal getaways, and intensive retreats.
• Partner with senior management to address operational needs and ensure alignment with strategic goals.
• Supervise facilities projects, manage consultants, and maintain compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
• Cultivate a positive work culture that attracts and retains talent aligned with Menla’s mission.

Financial Management

• Develop and monitor the organization’s budget in collaboration with Tibet House US and the Board.
• Oversee financial reporting, cash flow management, and ensure timely bookkeeping and audits.
• Provide regular financial updates to the Founders, Board of Directors, and senior management.
• Collaborate on financial strategies to optimize efficiency and ensure sustainability.

Program Development

• Support Menla’s team in maintaining and cultivating relationships with faculty and rental group leaders to expand Menla’s programming.
• Develop new retreat concepts aligned with Menla’s mission and attract more diverse audiences.

Community Engagement

• Serve as Menla’s primary spokesperson and liaison with media, donors, and local stakeholders.
• Collaborate with Menla senior management to oversee marketing consultants to maintain brand consistency as needed and help oversee outreach efforts.
• Represent Menla at public events and foster strategic partnerships to enhance visibility and community impact.

Preferred Skills & Qualifications

• MBA preferred, with 7-10 years of leadership experience in non-profit or ideally retreat center management.
• Proven experience in strategic planning, financial management, and program development.
• Demonstrated success in team leadership and organizational growth.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency with financial and operational software tools and ability to learn new software quickly.
• Passion for the organization’s mission and dedication to making a social impact.
• Demonstrated success in fundraising is desirable.
• Knowledge of Buddhist teachings and Tibetan culture is a plus.