Vice President of Brand Engagement

Be the Voice Behind the Mission.
Job Description

In this executive role, you will oversee the Association’s marketing, communications, and signature events, while also leading milestone initiatives like our 175th Anniversary Celebration. You’ll supervise a talented team and collaborate across departments to ensure everything we share—from media coverage to member outreach—reflects our mission and motivates action.  This position requires travel within the DC metro area and attendance at onsite meetings and events across our service area.

Qualifications
  • A strategic and inclusive brand leader who thrives at the intersection of storytelling, systems thinking, and community engagement.
  • A seasoned communicator with strong public relations experience, digital fluency, and event management expertise.
  • An experienced people manager who builds trust, alignment, and shared success.
  • Bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, public relations, or related field (Master’s a plus).
  • Minimum 7 years of senior-level experience in marketing, communications, and event leadership.
  • Proven track record of brand strategy development, campaign execution, and team leadership.
  • Nonprofit or community-based experience strongly preferred.
  • Passion for community service, inclusive storytelling, and volunteer engagement.
Essential Functions

Drive Brand Strategy & Impact

  • Lead a cohesive brand strategy that reflects the Y’s values, voice, and community relevance.
  • Ensure brand alignment across all member experiences, fundraising, program marketing, and public campaigns.
  • Champion mission-driven storytelling that reflects our diverse communities and amplifies real impact.

Guide Marketing & Communications

  • Foster cross-functional alignment between communications, digital marketing, media relations, and storytelling.
  • Use data and insights to inform campaigns and improve reach and relevance.

Lead Signature Events & Public Campaigns

  • Plan and oversee Association-wide events that build visibility, inspire participation, and celebrate community.
  • Lead the year-long 175th Anniversary Celebration, engaging partners, stakeholders, and local leaders.
  • Ensure all events are inclusive, inspiring, and aligned with YMCA values.

Lead a Mission-Driven Team

  • Empower high-performing staff and build a collaborative culture rooted in caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
  • Represent the YMCA publicly and serve as a senior spokesperson across media and community forums.
Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies
  • Mission Advancement: Incorporates the Y's mission and values into the organization's vision and strategies.
  • Collaboration: Initiates the development of relationships with influential leaders to impact and strengthen the community.
  • Operational Effectiveness: Possesses penetrating insight and strong strategic and critical thinking skills.
  • Personal Growth: Creates a learning organization. Effectively drives change by leveraging resources and creating alignment to expand organizational opportunities.
Required Certifications

Organizational leader, or multi-team or branch leader certification.

The YMCA offers a supportive and dynamic work environment that encourages personal and professional growth. By joining our team, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the community while enjoying a range of benefits designed to support your overall well-being. Here are some of the benefits you can enjoy as an employee:

  • Impactful Work: Make a meaningful difference in your community every day.
  • Supportive Environment: Thrive in a collaborative, mission-driven workplace.
  • Competitive Compensation: Salary range of $130,000 to $140,000 reflective of your skill and experience.
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Comprehensive plans to ensure you and your family can receive the care you need.
  • Wellness Programs: Y membership for you and your family to support your physical and mental health.
  • Retirement Plans to Secure your Financial Future: The Y will contribute 10% of your salary into the Y’s retirement savings plan after eligibility requirements are met. You also have the option to make additional contributions to the Y’s 403(b) and ROTH plans.
  • Work-Life Balance: Generous vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
  • Training and Development: Access to professional development programs, workshops, and certifications.
  • Welcoming Environment: A commitment to ensuring all employees feel valued.