Chief Program Officer

YMCA
Salary
$120,000.00
$135,000.00
How to Apply
Apply Online
Resumes Accepted Until
Lead innovative YMCA programs that drive youth impact, community growth, and mission-focused experiences across St. Pete.
Job Description

The Chief Program Officer (CPO) serves as a key member of the Executive Leadership Team and provides strategic leadership for the YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg’s full program portfolio. This includes Youth Development, Aquatics, Sports, Dance, and community-based initiatives and partnerships.

This role is responsible for driving program strategy, growth, and performance across the association, ensuring all programs are high-quality, financially sustainable, and aligned with the YMCA’s mission. The CPO leads efforts to expand community impact, strengthen partnerships, and position the YMCA as a leader in innovative, accessible programming.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Business, Education, Nonprofit Management, or related field required; Master’s preferred. 
  • 10+ years of senior leadership experience in multi-site program operations, preferably within the YMCA or a similar organization. 
  • Strong background across multiple program areas (youth development, aquatics, sports, wellness, etc.). 
  • Demonstrated success in driving program growth, partnerships, and expansion initiatives. 
  • Experience managing multi-program budgets and revenue-generating operations. 
  • Proven ability to lead within a matrixed, multi-site organizational structure. 
  • Strong strategic thinking, operational execution, and relationship-building skills. 
  • Excellent communication skills and executive presence. 
Essential Functions

Program Strategy & Portfolio Leadership

  • Lead the development and execution of a comprehensive, association-wide program strategy focused on growth, impact, and sustainability. 
  • Oversee the full program portfolio, ensuring alignment between mission, community needs, and financial performance. 
  • Identify and advance opportunities for program expansion, new site development, and innovative service delivery models. 
  • Foster a culture of excellence, accountability, and innovation across all program areas. 

Youth Development Leadership

  • Provide strategic oversight of all Youth Development programs, including Preschool Academies, School-Aged Programs, Y Reads, Prodigy, and Teen Programming. 
  • Partner with program leaders to strengthen structure, strategy, and long-term sustainability. 
  • Drive continuous improvement in program design, staffing models, and participant outcomes. 

Association-Wide Program Alignment

  • Provide shared leadership for Aquatics, Sports, and Dance programs in partnership with branch leadership. 
  • Establish and implement association-wide standards, policies, and best practices. 
  • Ensure consistency in program design, delivery, and member experience across all locations. 

Growth, Expansion & Community Partnerships

  • Lead efforts to expand the YMCA’s reach through strategic partnerships with schools, municipalities, and community organizations. 
  • Identify and execute opportunities for program growth and market expansion. 
  • Serve as a key external representative, enhancing the YMCA’s visibility and community presence. 

Program Performance & Innovation

  • Establish and monitor key performance indicators, including participation, revenue, and program outcomes. 
  • Utilize data and insights to drive decision-making and improve performance. 
  • Champion innovative program models that increase accessibility, relevance, and impact. 

Leadership & Executive Collaboration

  • Lead, coach, and develop senior program leaders across multiple disciplines and locations. 
  • Collaborate cross-functionally to align programs with marketing, funding, and operational strategies. 
  • Build strong leadership alignment and accountability across branches and program areas.