Executive Director

YMCA
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Are you a cause-driven leader who is ready to work with a leading nonprofit organization in Wilkes County, NC?
Job Description

The Executive Director of the Wilkes Family YMCA, Wilkesboro, NC, serves as a member of YMCA management and supports the overall objectives of the branch and Association. Ensures a high-quality experience for members and program participants. Ensures programs and staff are effectively scheduled. Exercises sound fiscal management. Ensures effective branch operations by performing the essential responsibilities below and the specific responsibilities detailed on any applicable supplemental fact sheet(s). Responsible for other duties as assigned. 

FOUR CORE RESPONSIBILITIES: 

Leads the Annual Impact Fund, working directly with the Development Director assigned to the branch. Also leads any capital campaign that arises and works with the Senior Director of Major Gifts to grow the branch's endowment. 

Coordinates the development of the branch board and committees and provides leadership over each meeting. 

Ensures the highest quality of member/program participant satisfaction by continuously observing program and member service areas. Identify and resolve issues in collaboration with branch leaders. 

Develop relationships with community leaders and represent the YMCA at community events. 

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree from four-year college or university; or four years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

CPR/First Aid/AED – must obtain certification within the first 90 days of employment and maintain a current certification thereafter.

YMCA Team Leader or Multi-Team/Branch Leader certification preferred.

Three to five years management experience, preferably in a YMCA or similar organization.

Ability to direct assigned operations including staff and volunteer development, supervision of staff, development and monitoring of budgets, marketing and public relations, and program development.

Prefer knowledge of, and previous experience with, diverse populations. 

Strong ability to promote a positive team atmosphere. 

Exemplifies a proactive, hands-on approach, as well as a professional work ethic. 

Ability to work a non-traditional schedule including some nights and weekends.

Strong interpersonal, organization and communication skills.

Energetic, devoted, mission-driven, team-oriented individual.

Bilingual (English/Spanish) is a plus.

Essential Functions

CANDIDATE PROFILE 

A Cause-driven leader, whose core values and beliefs align with the Guiding Principles of the YMCA of Northwest North Carolina, demonstrating excitement to work with a leading nonprofit organization in Wilkes County. The Executive Director must provide effective and thoughtful leadership by building strong relationships with stakeholders at all levels of the organization, including youth, families, community partners, volunteers, and the Board of Advisors white continually reinforcing the mission, vision, and values. 

Strong Fundraiser - Works with VP to ensure the Annual Impact Fund goal is met by assisting with fundraising activities as needed, including Annual kickoff, Bright Beginnings, foundation tours, external meetings, fundraising reports, and relationship-building. Capital campaign experience is recommended. Fiscal Accountability- Work with the Association leadership team to ensure that budgets are well constructed, followed throughout the year, and targets successfully obtained. 

Able to hold others accountable for budget targets. 

Problem Solver - Skilled in diplomacy and applying excellent customer service to resolve issues effectively during daily branch operations. 

Strong Communicator - Professional verbal and written skills. Computer savvy. 

Team Player - Open and willing to jump in when and where needed to ensure the highest member, participant, and staff experience. 

Promotes a positive branch culture through inspiring leadership, strategic vision, encouraging professional development, team recognition, and continuous feedback. 

Facilitates quality member, participant, and staff experiences through an engaged and visible presence in the facility, 

Familiarity with Wilkesboro, NC, and its neighboring communities, 

Assist in identifying and cultivating community and government partnerships. 

Cultural awareness and experience working with diverse populations. 

Essential Functions 

Participates in recruiting, hiring, training, developing, and directing branch staff across all experience circles or programs. 

Develops, manages, and monitors the branch operating budget. 

Develop strategies to ensure a cause-driven culture by creating and fostering open lines of communication across all experience circles and program areas. 

Provides input to experience circle leadership on staff performance and engagement. 

Leads Branch Connections meetings providing staff and program feedback to experience circle representatives.

Ensures the maintenance of facilities and properties of the branch to assure high standards of maintenance, safety, and cleanliness and to assure that the requirements of regulatory codes are met. 

Represents the YMCA at leadership and management meetings. 

Coordinates YMCA involvement in MerleFest campground operations, including:

  • Management of two campgrounds in accordance with the management agreement with Wilkes County and partnership expectations with Wilkes Community College.
  • Manages campground reservation systems (e.g., Eventbrite), including platform setup, monitoring registrations, and coordinating with the marketing and communications team to maintain accurate and engaging event website information.
  • Recruits, schedules, and supports volunteers; coordinates vendors and services; and ensures 24-hour security and on-site operational coverage throughout the festival weekend.
  • Maintains strong relationships with community partners and represents the YMCA at MerleFest-related meetings and events.
  • Tracks expenditures, reconciles campground financial activity, and prepares required financial and operational reports for Wilkes Community College and YMCA leadership.
Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies

YMCA Competencies (Multi-Team or Branch Leader)

Mission Advancement: Reinforces the Y’s values within the organization and the community. Effectively communicates the benefits and impact of the YMCA’s efforts for all stakeholders. Implements effective systems to develop volunteers at program, fundraising, and policy leadership levels. Secures resources and support for all philanthropic endeavors. 

Collaboration: Develops strategies to ensure staff and volunteers reflect the community. Builds and nurtures strategic relationships to enhance support for the YMCA. Serves as a community leader building collaborations based on trust and credibility to advance YMCA mission and goals. Communicates for influence to attain buy-in and support of goals. Provides tools and resources for the development of others.

Operational Effectiveness: Integrates multiple thinking processes to make decisions. Involves members and community in the development of programs and activities. Ensures execution of plans. Institutes sound accounting procedures, investment policies and financial controls. Assigns clear accountability and ensures continuous improvement.

Personal Growth: Fosters a learning environment embracing diverse abilities and approaches. Creates a sense of urgency and positive tension to support change. Anticipates challenges that can sidetrack or derail growth and personal learning. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.

Required Certifications

CPR/First Aid/AED – must obtain certification within the first 90 days of employment and maintain a current certification thereafter.

YMCA Team Leader or Multi-Team/Branch Leader certification preferred.