Senior Program Director / Associate Exec (Title Dependent on Experience)

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Job Description

The Senior Program Director/Associate Executive Director will be a vital leader in the Henderson County Family YMCA team. This role oversees Aquatics, Childcare programming (Summer Day Camp, Spring Break Camp, Fall Break Camp), and risk management initiatives, including direct leadership of the Safety Around Water (S.A.W.) program. This position focuses on program excellence, staff development, and operational oversight to ensure the delivery of exceptional services that align with the YMCA mission.

The successful candidate will work collaboratively with leadership staff, volunteers, and community leaders to develop high-quality, innovative programs while fostering a culture of social responsibility, accountability, and community impact. Candidates must also demonstrate the ability to be highly organized and have a proven track record of success in multitasking within a dynamic and fast-paced environment.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in a related field; Master’s degree preferred.
  • Progressive leadership experience in a YMCA or similar field will carry significant weight.
  • Demonstrated success in developing, managing, and evaluating aquatics and/or childcare programs.
  • Strong skills in staff recruitment, training, and supervision.
  • Proven ability in risk management and safety protocols, including managing aquatic safety standards and child protection policies.
  • Exceptional organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
  • Fiscal management experience, including budget development and revenue/expense oversight.
  • Excellent relationship-building, communication, and problem-solving skills.
  • Certified Pool Operator (CPO) is preferred.
  • Lifeguard, CPR, First Aid, and AED trainer qualifications are preferred (or willingness to obtain within 90 days).
Essential Functions
  • Leadership and Staff Development: Recruit, train, mentor, and supervise staff for aquatics and childcare programs, creating a culture of excellence and accountability.
  • Program Oversight: Develop and implement innovative, high-quality programs to meet community needs. Ensure all programs align with YMCA standards and foster member engagement.
  • Safety and Risk Management: Lead the Safety Around Water initiative, ensuring program delivery to Henderson County schools and promoting water safety education. Oversee all risk management practices, particularly in aquatics and childcare operations.
  • Operational Management: Manage department budgets, ensuring revenue targets and expense controls are met. Provide regular updates to the CEO.  Provide direct facility management and upkeep of our two indoor pools
  • Community Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with community partners, schools, and stakeholders to expand the YMCA's impact and visibility.
  • Member Experience: Foster a member-centered culture by creating programs and services that promote connection, engagement, and satisfaction. Serve as a role model in listening and relationship-building practices.
  • Strategic Planning: Support the branch leadership team in achieving strategic objectives, including membership growth, community outreach, and operational excellence.
Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies

1. Mission Advancement

  • Reinforces the Y’s Mission and Values: Models and instills the YMCA’s values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility in staff, members, and the community.
  • Community Engagement: Strengthens the YMCA’s role as a community leader through partnerships, innovative programs, and initiatives like Safety Around Water.
  • Philanthropy Development: Leads efforts to secure resources that support the YMCA’s programs and services.

2. Collaboration

  • Builds Relationships: Cultivates meaningful relationships with staff, members, and community partners to strengthen the YMCA’s impact.
  • Involves Others: Engages staff and volunteers in decision-making and strategic planning, ensuring a sense of ownership and collaboration.
  • Fosters Inclusion: Creates an inclusive environment where diversity is valued and celebrated.

3. Operational Effectiveness

  • Ensures Program Excellence: Develops, implements, and evaluates high-quality programs that meet the needs of the community.
  • Fiscal Responsibility: Oversees budgets, ensuring effective revenue generation, cost control, and resource allocation.
  • Risk Management: Ensures the safety and well-being of staff and participants, with a particular focus on aquatics and childcare operations.

4. Personal Growth

  • Continuous Learning: Pursues opportunities for professional growth and encourages development within the team.
  • Emotional Maturity: Demonstrates self-awareness, adaptability, and resilience in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
  • Innovative Thinking: Uses creative problem-solving to adapt to changing community needs and improve program offerings.

5. Program and Staff Development (Position-Specific)

  • Leadership Development: Recruits, trains, and mentors staff to foster a culture of excellence and accountability.
  • Program Innovation: Designs and implements programs that align with YMCA standards while addressing community priorities.
  • Team Building: Inspires and motivates staff to achieve goals and deliver exceptional service.
Required Certifications

Lifeguard Instructor - Must be obtained within 90 days.

CPR / First Aid / AED for the professional rescuer

Current Lifeguard Certification - Must be obtained within 90 days.

Certified Pool Operator - preferred but not required

Child Abuse Prevention Training (Praesidium or YMCA Equivalent)

Risk Management Training - (YMCA or Equivalent)