Director of Healthy Living

Lead with purpose. Build a healthier Siouxland as Director of Healthy Living at Norm Waitt Sr. YMCA. Mission meets movement.
Job Description

The Director of Healthy Living plays a vital role in advancing the YMCA’s mission of strengthening community by connecting people to their potential, purpose, and one another. This position provides leadership and oversight for all wellness and aquatic programs, ensuring safe, high-quality, and mission-driven services. By managing staff, budgets, and program growth, the Director of Healthy Living creates a welcoming environment where members and participants achieve their health and wellness goals. Guided by the YMCA’s core values—Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility—we foster a culture that is Welcoming, Genuine, Hopeful, Nurturing, and Determined.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in health, recreation, or related field preferred; equivalent experience considered.
  • Must be at least 21 years of age.
  • Prior experience supervising staff and managing budgets.
  • Strong communication, organizational, and leadership skills.
  • Proficient in digital tools and technology.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Experience working with diverse populations.
  • Understands that the YMCA is a public accommodation committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Essential Functions
  • Create a welcoming environment that supports belonging, achievement, and meaningful connections.
  • Deliver high-quality wellness and aquatic programs aligned with YMCA standards and strategic goals.
  • Recruit, hire, train, develop, and supervise staff and volunteers; review performance and provide coaching to achieve goals.
  • Manage the budgeting process, aligning resources with priorities and ensuring operations meet or exceed financial targets. Assist supervisor with financial reporting and long-term planning.
  • Develop and expand programs including group exercise (land and water), Safety Around Water, swim lessons, private lessons, and other offerings in alignment with community needs and YMCA plans.
  • Coordinate the scheduling and use of facilities for group exercise, aquatic programs, trainings, and events.
  • Oversee certifications and trainings including Lifeguard, Swim Instructor, Group Exercise, and CPR/First Aid.
  • Monitor and evaluate program effectiveness, participation, and member satisfaction; adjust programs as needed.
  • Ensure compliance with YMCA, local, and state standards for safety, risk management, and inclusion.
  • Assist in marketing efforts, community outreach, program registration, and promotion of YMCA services.
  • Support YMCA fundraising campaigns, community events, and special initiatives.
  • Conduct regular staff meetings, in-services, and professional development opportunities.
  • Collaborate with leadership on staff recognition, engagement, and retention strategies.
  • Model YMCA core values and use the Y-Voice: Welcoming, Hopeful, Determined, Genuine, and Nurturing.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned in support of the YMCA’s mission and strategic goals.
Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies
  • Critical Thinking & Decision Making: Uses sound judgment to adapt programs that meet wellness and safety standards.
  • Communication & Influence: Builds trust with members, staff, and the community through clear communication.
  • Functional Expertise: Demonstrates knowledge in wellness and aquatics program development and delivery.
  • Program/Project Management: Plans, coordinates, and evaluates programs to achieve YMCA goals.
  • Developing Self & Others: Provides leadership and mentorship while pursuing personal and professional growth.
Required Certifications

(or willingness to complete within designated timeframe upon hire)

  • CPR and First Aid Certification
  • Bloodborne Pathogens Training
  • Mandatory Child Abuse Reporting Certification
  • Emergency Procedures Training
  • Lifeguard Certification & Lifeguard Instructor Certification
  • Water Safety Instructor (WSI) & Trainer (WSIT)
  • CPR Instructor Certification
  • National Certification (ACE, NETA, AFAA, NASM) in Group Fitness Instruction, Personal Training, or YMCA Foundations of Group Exercise Certification

Send Resume, Cover Letter, and References to [email protected]