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Join the Columbia YMCA as our next Branch Executive Director, where your leadership strengthens community.
Job Description
Located just two blocks from Main Street, the Downtown YMCA is at the center of Columbia’s thriving arts, sports, dining, and entertainment district. This is more than a job—it’s a chance to make a lasting difference every single day. As part of a nonprofit that turns no one away, you’ll help deliver programs that enrich lives and ensure the YMCA remains an integral part of Columbia’s future.
The Branch Executive Director is responsible for driving growth and excellence across all aspects of the Downtown YMCA. This includes oversight of Membership, Youth Development, Sports & Healthy Living, marketing, programs, facilities, financial development, and community partnerships.
This hands-on leadership role calls for passion, creativity, and commitment to strengthening an established YMCA that has been serving Columbia since 1854—while shaping its next chapter of growth. Flexibility is key, with responsibilities that may include early mornings, evenings, and weekends to best serve our members and community.
Qualifications
1. Bachelor's degree in human services, business, social services or equivalent
2. Five or more years of professional experience in a leadership role in the YMCA or another nonprofit preferred.
3. Knowledge and experience in all aspects of operations, including staff supervision and development, successful membership practices, quality program development and implementation, volunteerism, facility and property management and sound financial practices.
4. Understanding of the mission and cause of the YMCA and the respective roles of volunteers and staff.
5. Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments of the community; track record of building authentic, constructive relationships with others.
6. Ability to handle multiple departments, demands and priorities and achieve organizational objectives.
7. YMCA Multi-Team Leader certification preferred.
Essential Functions
1. Directs the total operation of the Downtown YMCA, including supervising staff and overseeing the branch budget, marketing, public relations, and program development.
2. Oversees the hiring, training, and supervision of all staff. This includes the direct management of the Youth Development Director, the Sports Director, the Healthy Living Department staff and the Membership Department staff.
3. Manages and oversees all financial aspects of the branch, including budget forecasting, monitoring expenses, and revenue generation to ensure financial stability and sustainability of the association.
4. Coordinates the development of the branch Advisory Council and its committees.
5. Manages the financial development activities of the branch.
6. Represents and promotes the YMCA in the local community.
7. Develops and implements strategies to grow the branch's membership base.
8. Develops and manages the branch operating budget, and ensures the branch meets or exceeds budget targets.
9. Directs branch strategic planning efforts and develops the annual operating plan.
10. Develops and directs high-quality, relationship-based member engagement strategies.
11. Fosters a climate of innovation to develop member-focused programs that support the Y mission.
12. Ensures the safety and maintenance of high-quality facilities, grounds, and equipment.
13. Directs branch marketing and communication efforts.
14. Serves as a member of YMCA management and supports the overall objectives of the organization.
15. Performs any other functions deemed necessary for the smooth and efficient operation of the YMCA of Columbia.
Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies
Mission Advancement: Reinforces the Ys 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.