We are seeking a dynamic, results-driven Riding Academy Manager to lead our premier equestrian education programs, facility operations, and team. This role serves as the operational anchor of our academy, driving program growth, elevating rider engagement, and maintaining the highest standards of horse care, safety, and instructional excellence.
If you are an experienced equestrian professional with a strong business acumen, exceptional leadership skills, and a passion for fostering a safe, high-performing, and welcoming riding community, we invite you to apply.
Key ResponsibilitiesProgram Elevation & Strategic Leadership
- Define and execute the strategic direction, operational goals, and educational standards for the riding academy.
- Expand curriculum offerings, from foundational beginner lessons to advanced discipline-specific training, clinics, and competitive events.
- Actively track key performance indicators (KPIs), lesson retention rates, and client satisfaction to ensure continuous growth and program excellence.
- Cultivate a supportive, inclusive, and goal-oriented environment for students, horse owners, and staff.
Team Leadership & Staff Development
- Recruit, onboard, mentor, and evaluate a team of qualified instructors, trainers, and barn technicians.
- Establish clear instructional benchmarks, lesson structures, and professional conduct standards for all personnel.
- Manage master scheduling for lesson programs, staff shifts, arena availability, and special events.
- Lead regular team meetings and continuing education sessions to promote safety, consistency, and professional growth.
Equine Welfare & Stable Management
- Oversee comprehensive equine management, ensuring optimal feed schedules, turnout routines, health tracking, and routine husbandry.
- Partner directly with veterinarians, farriers, and equine health specialists to manage preventive care and emergency interventions.
- Maintain rigorous standards for stall cleanliness, arena surface conditions, tack maintenance, and overall facility aesthetics.
- Continuously audit horses for fitness, temperament, and workload suitabilities across instructional programs.
Safety, Risk Management & Compliance
- Champion a proactive culture of risk management and strict safety protocols for riders, visitors, staff, and equine stock.
- Ensure full compliance with industry safety standards, insurance policies, and local operational regulations.
- Standardize emergency response protocols, incident logging, and hazard assessment practices across the facility.
Client Relations & Community Building
- Serve as the primary ambassador for the academy, building strong relationships with riders, parents, and community partners.
- Oversee the planning and execution of academy shows, seasonal camps, educational workshops, and social gatherings.
- Efficiently address and resolve client inquiries, feedback, and operational challenges with a solutions-oriented approach.
Financial Oversight & Administration
- Collaborate on annual operational budgets, managing departmental revenues, payroll, and facility expenditures.
- Optimize pricing strategies for lesson packages, clinic fees, horse leasing, and event registrations.
- Maintain accurate administrative records, lesson logs, billing entries, and executive performance metrics.
Qualifications
- Equestrian Leadership Experience: 3+ years in equestrian program management, stable administration, head instruction, or a related role.
- Deep Industry Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of equine science, advanced stable management practices, and structured riding instruction.
- Team Management: Proven ability to supervise, schedule, and inspire a diverse team of instructors and operational staff.
- Business Acumen: Experience with budgeting, scheduling platforms, client communications, and basic operational reporting.
- Certifications: Professional credentials (e.g., USHJA, CHA, USDF, or similar national equestrian governing bodies) preferred.
- Communication: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills with a strong customer-service focus.
Physical Requirements & Working Conditions
- Ability to work outdoors and in active barn environments under varying weather conditions.
- Physical capability to lift and move up to 50 lbs (feed sacks, equipment, hay bales) as required.
- Flexibility to work non-traditional hours, including early mornings, weekends, evenings, and event days.
- Rapid emergency response capabilities in environments involving dynamic equine and human activity.
Bonus/Incentive structure in place: Up to $10,000 a year.
Pay: $50,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- On-the-job training
- Opportunities for advancement
Application Question(s):
- Tell me about your horse experience:
License/Certification:
- Drivers License (Required)
Location:
- Austin, TX 78737 (Required)
Work Location: In person
