Branch Executive Director

Now Hiring: Branch Executive – Charleston Family YMCA  
Job Description

The Branch Executive provides strategic and operational leadership for the Charleston Family YMCA, located in West Virginia’s capital city. With more than $3.5 million in annual revenue and over 4,000 membership units, the Charleston Family YMCA serves as a dynamic hub for wellness, youth development, and community connection. The YMCA of Kanawha Valley is proud to be Praesidium Accredited, reflecting our commitment to the highest national standards in child protection, abuse prevention, and organizational safety.

The Branch Executive serves as a key member of the YMCA of Kanawha Valley leadership team and works in close partnership with the President and CEO to drive operational excellence, strengthen community relationships, and advance the YMCA’s strategic priorities. This leader is responsible for cultivating a high-performing team, ensuring exceptional member experiences, and stewarding the financial and operational health of the branch.

This is an outstanding opportunity for a mission-driven, relationship-centered leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is energized by developing people, building partnerships, and leading a complex operation that serves thousands of individuals and families each year. The successful candidate will inspire staff and volunteers to deliver meaningful programs and experiences that strengthen the community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

Why Join the Charleston Family YMCA Family?
As Branch Executive, you’ll lead a dynamic, high-performing team within a thriving branch poised for its next phase of growth and innovation. The Charleston Family YMCA serves as a vital hub for wellness, belonging, and community engagement -- offering you the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the health and spirit of the region.
The YMCA of Kanawha Valley is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, inclusion, and strengthening the foundations of community.

Qualifications

•    Bachelor’s degree in business administration, nonprofit management, recreation management, or a related field preferred. Candidates with equivalent professional leadership experience in operations, team management, and organizational leadership are encouraged to apply.
•    Minimum of 5 years of progressive leadership experience supervising paid staff and managing operations.  
•    Demonstrated track record of leading teams to achieve operational excellence, sales growth, and strong community engagement. 
•    Demonstrated experience managing budgets, financial performance, and operational outcomes in a multi-department organization.  
•    Proven success in team development, performance management, and organizational leadership.
•    Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire staff, volunteers, and community leaders.
•    Leadership experience across nonprofit, public, or private sector organizations is encouraged. 
•    Ability to lead with integrity, accountability, and commitment to the YMCA’s mission and values. 

Essential Functions

Strategic Leadership:
Provide visionary leadership and operational oversight for all branch functions, including membership, wellness, aquatics, racquet sports, and community initiatives.

Culture of Excellence:
Foster an energetic, inclusive, and collaborative workplace that attracts and retains top talent. Set high standards for accountability, innovation, and service.

Membership & Program Growth:
Develop and execute strategies to increase membership, enhance retention, and expand program participation in alignment with community needs.

Community Engagement:
Serve as the face of the Charleston Family YMCA in the community. Build strong partnerships with schools, local businesses, civic organizations, and neighborhood groups to advance the YMCA’s mission and visibility.

Fiscal Stewardship:
Lead the branch in achieving and exceeding financial goals. Ensure responsible fiscal management through sound budgeting, expense control, and revenue growth initiatives to build upon the branch’s current $3.5 million annual revenue.

Fund Development:
Champion the YMCA’s annual campaign and other philanthropic initiatives. Inspire staff, volunteers, and members to support the Y’s cause through giving and advocacy.

Facility & Operations Management:
Ensure that the facility and grounds reflect the Y’s standards for safety, cleanliness, and member experience.

Staff Development:
Recruit, train, and mentor a diverse team of professionals who are passionate about the YMCA mission. Provide leadership development opportunities that empower staff and volunteers to succeed.

Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies

Key Competencies
•    Mission Advancement and Community Leadership
•    Financial Stewardship
•    Operational Excellence
•    Team Leadership and Staff Development
•    Sales and Membership Growth
•    Strategic Thinking and Problem Solving
•    Collaboration and Communication
•    Safety and Risk Management

Required Certifications

•    Must possess a valid driver’s license and meet YMCA of Kanawha Valley insurance eligibility requirements to operate YMCA vehicles.
•    CPR/AED and First Aid certification required within 60 days of hire.
•    Completion of YMCA Child Abuse Prevention and required safety trainings upon hire.

YMCA Leadership Certification Requirement
•    External candidates must obtain YMCA Organizational Leader Certification (or equivalent YMCA leadership certification) within two years of hire.
•    Current YMCA employees with an active leadership certification are strongly preferred.