Executive Director

YMCA
Resumes Accepted Until
Resume Contact
[email protected]
This is a unique opportunity for a proven leader to steward a Christian nonprofit organization.
Job Description

YMCA | Full-Time | Leadership Role

The YMCA of DeKalb County, incorporated as a religious corporation organized primarily or exclusively for religious purposes with a mission of “Building relationships to connect people to Christ”, is seeking a mission-driven Executive Director who is deeply committed to Christian values and beliefs and passionate about advancing the YMCA’s Christ-centered mission. This position serves as a strategic leadership role with the intent to transition into the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) role within approximately one year, and no later than two years, subject to performance outcomes and formal approval by the Board of Directors.

This is a unique opportunity for a proven leader to steward a Christian nonprofit organization, strengthen community relationships, and lead with faith, integrity, and excellence.

Our Mission
The YMCA exists to build relationships that connect people to Christ through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. We are seeking a leader who will actively champion and model this mission in all aspects of organizational leadership.

Position Summary

The Executive Director works closely with the CEO, COO, and Board of Directors to lead fundraising, community engagement, financial oversight, and operational excellence. This individual will be a visible Christian leader in the community and will help guide the YMCA through a planned leadership transition.

The Executive Director provides direct supervision and leadership to the Christian Mission Director, Facilities Director, and Office Manager, ensuring strong alignment across ministry programming, facility operations, and administrative functions.

This role requires a strong commitment to the YMCA’s Christian foundation, fiscal responsibility, and collaborative leadership.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent YMCA leadership certifications
  • 5–7 years of YMCA leadership experience preferred
  • 5–7 years of senior leadership experience
  • A desire to promote unity in the Christian faith. (John 17:21)
  • Demonstrated commitment to advancing Christian faith and values
  • Ability to complete required certifications (CPR, First Aid, AED, etc.) within 90 days
Essential Functions

Key Responsibilities

Mission & Leadership

  • Champion and advance the YMCA’s Christian mission and values in programs, staff leadership, and community engagement
  • Model servant leadership rooted in Christian faith and biblical principles
  • Directly lead, mentor, and develop the Christian Mission Director, Facilities Director, and Office Manager
  • Ensure alignment of ministry programming, facility operations, and administrative support with the YMCA’s strategic priorities
  • Prepare for succession into the CEO role through mentorship, strategic planning, and board collaboration

Fundraising & Annual Campaign

  • Lead planning and execution of the annual fundraising campaign
  • Cultivate relationships with donors, sponsors, churches, and community partners
  • Oversee donor stewardship, recognition efforts, and annual donor celebrations
  • Support capital campaigns as needed

Financial Oversight

  • Collaborating with the CEO on budget development, reporting, and variance analysis
  • Work closely with the Finance Committee to ensure fiscal accountability
  • Provide oversight of departmental budgets under direct supervision

Community Engagement

  • Build strong partnerships with churches, schools, nonprofits, businesses, and civic leaders
  • Serve as a visible representative of the YMCA within the community

Organizational Operations

  • Partner with the COO to ensure policies, procedures, and best practices are followed
  • Assist with HR matters, compliance, and strategic planning across departments
  • Oversee facility excellence, administrative efficiency, and mission program effectiveness through direct reports
Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies

Leadership Competencies

  • Mission Advancement: Lives and teaches Christian values; inspires others to serve and give
  • Collaboration: Builds trust, listens empathetically, and leads inclusively
  • Operational Effectiveness: Demonstrates strong decision-making, budgeting, and organizational skills
  • Personal Growth: Adapts to change, seeks growth, and models integrity and humility

Benefits & Compensation Highlights

The YMCA is committed to caring for our leaders and their families by offering a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, reflecting our values of wellness, stewardship, and work-life balance.

Benefits include:

  • Competitive salary commensurate with experience and leadership responsibility
  • Medical Health insurance options for employees and eligible dependents
  • Retirement plan with employer contributions to support long-term financial health
  • Paid time off including vacation, holidays, and sick leave
  • Professional development opportunities, including YMCA leadership training and certifications
  • YMCA membership benefits for employee and family

Why Join Our YMCA?

  • Clear pathway to CEO leadership
  • Opportunity to lead a mission-driven, Christ-centered organization
  • Strong board and leadership support
  • Meaningful impact on individuals, families, and the community