Community Life Director

Bluffton, South Carolina

$75,000-$85,000 annually + Annual Bonus Opportunity (up to 10% of base salary) + Comprehensive Benefits + 16 Paid Holidays

Hiring range based on experience, skills, and qualifications.

Collaboration. Authenticity. Connection. Balance.

At Cohere, we believe community is the most valuable amenity.

We do more than manage communities—we help create places where people connect, belong, and thrive. By partnering with some of the nation's most innovative master-planned communities, we create places residents are proud to call home and where meaningful relationships flourish.

We're looking for a Community Life Director to join our team supporting a premier Four Seasons 55+ community in Bluffton, South Carolina.

Located in the heart of South Carolina's Lowcountry, this active adult community offers residents resort-style amenities, engaging social opportunities, and a welcoming environment designed for connection, belonging, and active living.

In this role, you'll serve as the strategic and cultural leader of the community—guiding operations, governance, resident engagement, communications, and community-building initiatives that foster connection, belonging, and an exceptional quality of life. You'll partner with residents, volunteer leaders, boards, and stakeholders to create meaningful experiences, cultivate community pride, and help shape the future of the community.

This is an opportunity to lead a talented team, influence the resident experience, and create lasting impact in a community where relationships, stewardship, and active living are at the heart of everyday life.

If you're someone who enjoys leading people, building relationships, developing strategy, and creating exceptional community experiences, we'd love to meet you.

Why People Choose Cohere  

The best communities are built by people who feel supported, valued, and empowered to do their best work. That's why we invest in benefits, time away, and professional growth that help our team members thrive both personally and professionally.  

Highlights Include:  

• Medical coverage available on your first day  
• Employer-paid dental coverage  
• Vision coverage  
• 401(k) retirement plan  
• Employer-paid Life Insurance, AD&D, and Long-Term Disability coverage  
• Pet insurance options  
• Employee Assistance Program with mental health, financial, legal, and family support resources  
• Travel assistance and identity theft protection  
• Complimentary will preparation services  
• Generous paid time off  
• 16 paid holidays each year, including a Birthday Day and Volunteer Day, in addition to PTO  
• Professional development and growth opportunities 

What You'll Do

Lead Community Vision & Resident Experience

• Develop and implement innovative community-building initiatives that foster connection, belonging, and resident well-being 
• Create opportunities for residents to engage, volunteer, and actively shape the future of the community 
• Analyze resident feedback and community data to identify opportunities for enhanced programs and services 
• Champion the community vision while ensuring alignment with Cohere's values and philosophy 

Lead Community Operations & Governance

• Oversee day-to-day community operations, governance functions, and administrative processes 
• Partner with Boards of Directors to provide guidance, recommendations, and operational leadership 
• Ensure fulfillment of contractual obligations, governing documents, and community objectives 
• Maintain strong relationships with residents, volunteer leaders, board members, and stakeholders 

Oversee Community Engagement & Partnerships

• Lead community events, programs, communications, and resident engagement strategies 
• Cultivate partnerships with local organizations, municipalities, schools, nonprofits, and community groups 
• Support volunteer committees, clubs, and resident-led initiatives 
• Foster a culture of inclusion, participation, and community stewardship 

Manage Financial & Business Operations

• Develop and manage annual budgets, operating plans, and strategic initiatives 
• Monitor financial performance and ensure resources are aligned with community goals 
• Manage vendor relationships, contracts, negotiations, and service delivery 
• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, maximize value, and enhance the resident experience 

Lead & Develop High-Performing Teams

• Provide leadership, coaching, and development for Community Life team members 
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement 
• Partner with Cohere colleagues to share best practices and strengthen operational effectiveness 
• Serve as an ambassador for Cohere's mission, values, and community-building philosophy

What We're Looking For

• 5-7 years of progressive leadership experience in community management, HOA management, hospitality, recreation, nonprofit leadership, resident engagement, or a related field 
• 7+ years of experience leading, developing, and motivating professional staff, volunteers, committees, or community leaders 
• Experience working with Boards of Directors, committees, volunteer leaders, or stakeholder groups 
• Strong strategic planning, operational leadership, and project management skills 
• Financial acumen, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial oversight 
• Experience developing and implementing community programs, events, engagement initiatives, or resident services 
• Exceptional communication, relationship-building, and public speaking skills 
• Strong problem-solving abilities and a collaborative leadership style 
• Bachelor's degree in a related field preferred 
• CAI designations (CMCA, AMS, PCAM) preferred but not required

Additional Requirements

• This is an onsite position based in Bluffton, South Carolina 
• Flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and some holidays as needed 
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation required 
• Ability to lift and move up to 30 pounds and remain on your feet for extended periods as needed

Equal Opportunity Employer 

Cohere is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all team members are valued and respected.