Chief Executive Officer

YMCA
Salary
$160,000.00
$190,000.00
How to Apply
Apply Online
Resumes Accepted Until
Lead a mission-driven organization with roots that run deep.
Job Description

The YMCA of the Cedar Rapids Metropolitan Area is an equal opportunity employer. We work to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential with dignity.

The Opportunity

Lead a mission-driven organization with roots that run deep. Since 1868, the Cedar Rapids Metro YMCA has been a steady force for connection and belonging, from the heart of downtown to the neighborhoods and schools of Linn County. This role invites you to honor that history while shaping what comes next for a community you can see and feel every day.

You will set the course for a growing multi-branch association powered by strong partnerships and a community that shows up. Prairie Summit YMCA opens in 2026 in collaboration with the College Community School District, creating a larger stage for youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. A modern urban facility, a vibrant suburban branch, a new suburban branch coming online in 2026, and Camp Wapsie’s 182 acres together give you year-round reach and room to innovate across aquatics, youth, sports, and wellness.

What differentiates this opportunity is the chance to lead where mission meets momentum. You will translate a new three-year strategy into visible gains in membership, programs, philanthropy, and community outcomes. You will invest in people, strengthen systems, and use data to guide decisions. You will build trust at every level, from families learning to swim to partners investing in access and building connected communities. A culture of safety and care makes the Y a reliable anchor for children, teens, adults, and active older adults who count on us every day.

If you are a strategic builder who leads with purpose and delivers results, Cedar Rapids offers the rare combination of heritage and headroom. You will work with an engaged board, dedicated volunteers, and public and private partners who believe in what the Y makes possible. You will widen the welcome, expand scholarships, and leave the association stronger than you found it.

Our Mission

We put Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. This commitment guides every program, partnership, and investment we make in Cedar Rapids and across Linn County.

Our Vision

The place for community connection and total wellness.

Our Cause

We are here to strengthen community. We do this by advancing youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility through welcoming spaces, skilled staff, and accessible programs. From swim lessons and childcare to chronic disease prevention, camp, and teen leadership, we remove barriers to participation, expand scholarships, and partner with neighbors to improve wellbeing across our service area.

Position Description

Cedar Rapids Metro YMCA seeks a President and CEO who leads with clarity, discipline, and community credibility. The CEO will translate the new three-year strategy into specific priorities across membership growth, program participation, philanthropy, and measurable community outcomes. The CEO will align budgets with mission, ensure reliable operations at every location, and set clear standards for safety, service, and the member experience. The CEO’s direct reports will include a third Facility Executive Director when the new Prairie Summit branch opens.

The CEO will cultivate partnerships with area school districts, health systems, employers, civic leaders, and donors to widen the welcome and reduce barriers to participation. The CEO will invest in staff development, coach strong leaders, and use data to guide decisions and demonstrate progress. Working closely with an engaged board, the CEO will represent the Y effectively in the community and steward resources for long-term sustainability.

Cedar Rapids YMCA Facts

Rooted in downtown Cedar Rapids and serving all of Linn County, Cedar Rapids Metro YMCA operates modern branches in the city and Marion, along with Camp Wapsie’s 182 acres of outdoor learning and retreat space. A new Prairie Summit YMCA is planned to open in 2026 in partnership with the College Community School District, creating an expanded platform for youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Facilities include lap and leisure pools, multiple gyms, racquetball courts, indoor tracks, fitness studios and floors, childcare spaces, and specialty program areas across locations.

Current Key Strategic Initiatives

Open Prairie Summit YMCA in 2026 and integrate programs with the school district to expand reach
Translate the new three-year strategy into measurable growth in membership, programs, philanthropy, and outcomes
Strengthen financial sustainability through disciplined operations, pricing, and mix of earned and contributed revenue
Advance a culture of safety and trust with consistent practices in member and staff protection
Invest in staff development, engagement, and retention to build a high performing, service focused team
Expand access through scholarships and partnerships that reduce barriers for youth, families, and seniors

Membership

Total membership units: 9,275

  • Helen G. Nassif YMCA: 4,135
  • Marion YMCA: 5,140


Total members: 16,023

  • Helen G. Nassif YMCA: 6,509
  • Marion YMCA: 9,503

Branch/Facility Information

Overview

  • Serves Linn County through two full-service branches, a year-round camp, and a suburban partnership site in development
  • Delivers aquatics, youth development, wellness, and family programs at meaningful scale
  • Provides neighborhood access and regional reach for members, partners, and donors
  • Provides financial assistance and scholarships to ensure full access for those in need

Helen G. Nassif YMCA (downtown Cedar Rapids, opened 2002)

  • 65,000 square feet and the association’s flagship; executive offices on the second floor
  • Six lane lap pool with spa
  • Three full size basketball courts; six pickleball courts; four racquetball courts
  • Indoor walking track; well-equipped fitness floor
  • Multipurpose and group exercise rooms; Queenax functional training system
  • HGN Preschool on site; home of the MACR Sharks swim team
  • Central location that supports partnerships, special events, and high community visibility

Marion YMCA (opened January 2021)

  • Approximately 75,000 square feet designed for multigenerational use
  • Six lane lap pool with spa; zero entry leisure pool
  • Three full size basketball courts with eighteen hoops; six pickleball courts; two racquetball courts
  • Child Watch; wet classroom; spacious locker rooms for men and women; three family changing rooms
  • Second floor one tenth mile indoor walking and running track
  • Three group exercise studios including a dedicated cycling room
  • Expansive cardio and strength areas; Queenax system
  • Operates as a vibrant suburban anchor with strong daytime and evening activity

YMCA Camp Wapsie (established 1918, Coggon)

  • 182 wooded acres located about thirty miles north of Cedar Rapids; lodging for approximately 280
  • Canoe friendly waterfront; climbing tower with zipline; archery range; Ga Ga pits; outdoor sports court; swimming pool
  • Summer programs serve more than two thousand campers each year
  • Year-round retreats for adult and school groups; team building programs; specialty sessions such as Halloween
  • Camp, Adult Reading Camp, Winter Camp, and parent and child weekends
  • Extends the Y mission into nature and differentiates the association for families and partners

Prairie Summit YMCA (scheduled to open April 2026)

  • More than 97,000 square feet in partnership with the College Community School District
  • Nine by nine lane competition pool with bulkhead, warm up lanes, and diving well
  • Separate recreation pool with shared community locker bays to maintain access during meets
  • Gym sized turf area; two high school size courts; two fitness rooms; large fitness floor; EGYM system; indoor track
  • Planned home venue for Prairie swim teams and a platform for deeper school and community partnerships that
  • position the Y for growth and program innovation

Programs

  • Aquatics, Safety Around Water, and swim lessons
  • Youth sports, leagues, and clinics
  • Summer day camp and preschool enrichment
  • Health and wellness, personal training, and group exercise
  • Chronic disease prevention and evidence-based health programs
  • Teen leadership and belonging initiatives
  • Camp Wapsie summer and year-round outdoor education
  • Active older adult engagement and social connection
  • MACR Sharks swim team and competitive aquatics

Annual Campaign

  • Prior Year’s Total: $220,000
  • Current Year’s Goal: $260,000
  • Current Year’s Amount raised: $171,232

Previous Year’s Campaign Impact

  • Total number of people receiving financial assistance (scholarship): 3,555
  • Total amount awarded in financial assistance (scholarship): $1,000,000

Capital Campaign(s)

  • Prairie Summit YMCA equipment and start-up needs in partnership with the College Community School District. Campaign goal: $1,500,000.
  • Camp Wapsie capital improvements include the completed $200,000 campaign for a staff cabin and the launch of a $70,000 campaign for water slide and pool deck improvements (67% to goal).

Staff

Current Staff

  • FT - 28
  • PT - 185
  • Seasonal - 100

CEO Direct Reports

  • Vice President of Finance
  • Marketing and Development Director
  • 2 Facility Executive Directors
  • Camp Wapsi Executive Director
  • Child Care Director
  • Building and Grounds Director

Board of Directors

  • Number of Directors: 14
  • Committees
    • Executive
    • Finance and Audit
    • Development and Community Engagement
    • Governance and Board Development
    • Facilities and Capital Projects
    • Program and Membership
    • Risk and Safety

Financial Snapshot

  • Current annual operating budget $6,127,000
  • Current debt $10,559,789
  • Endowment $319,000
  • Board-designated reserves (certificates of deposit) $1,187,065
  • Three-year operating patternFY2023 surplus
    • FY2024 deficit
    • FY2025 projected surplus

Population & Demographics

The Cedar Rapids Metro YMCA draws primarily from Linn County and from households within approximately a 12-minute drive of each branch location (downtown, Marion, and the future Prairie Summit site), as well as families connected to the College Community School District. This reflects the full community the Y serves.

  • Population (Linn County): 228,972
  • Median age: 39.6
  • Households: 96,058
  • Median household income: $72,279
  • Per capita income: $40,082
  • Poverty rate: 9.9%

Race and Ethnicity

  • Linn County: White (non-Hispanic) 83%; Black/African American 5.7%; Hispanic/Latino 4%; Two or more races 3.9%
  • Cedar Rapids: White (non-Hispanic) 77.5%; Black/African American 8.3%; Hispanic/Latino 5.1%; Two or more races 5.2%
  • Marion: White (non-Hispanic) 88.6%; Two or more races 2.7%; Black/African American 2.7%; Hispanic/Latino 3.2%
  • Hiawatha: White 83.9%; Asian 6.1%; Black/African American 3.9%

Additional Important Information

Area Amenities and Community Benefits

  • Strong regional economy anchored by advanced manufacturing, finance, insurance, health care, and education
  • Excellent public schools across Cedar Rapids, Marion, Hiawatha, and the College Community School District
  • Robust parks, trails, and riverfront access that support outdoor recreation year round
  • Thriving arts and culture scene with theaters, museums, live music, and community festivals
  • Family friendly cost of living with diverse housing options in urban, suburban, and rural settings
  • Access to world class health systems and specialty care within the metro
  • Convenient air travel from Eastern Iowa Airport with easy highway access to Iowa City and the Corridor
  • Active network of civic and corporate partners committed to community well being

 

Other Sites for Information:

www.ymca.org  

www.crmetroymca.org  

www.cedar-rapids.org  City of Cedar Rapids

www.cedarrapids.org  Metro Economic Alliance

www.marioncc.org  Marion Chamber of Commerce

https://www.crprairie.org/   College Community School District (our partner with the Prairie Summit YMCA. District covers 7 communities including south Cedar Rapids, Linn County, Swisher, Ely, Shueyville)

https://www.marion-isd.org/  Marion Independent Schools

https://www.linnmar.k12.ia.us/  Linn-Mar School District (Marion, Robins, Linn County and part of Cedar Rapids)

https://crschools.us/   Cedar Rapids School District

https://xaviersaints.org/  (Private)

Qualifications

Criteria for Candidates:

  • Accredited 4-year college degree or equivalent experience.
  • Must demonstrate excellent written and verbal communication skills and personal values consistent with the YMCA mission.
  • Minimum five years prior experience in a senior management role with a YMCA or related experience at a comparable organization with direct supervision of multiple levels of staff and employees.
  • Must be able to develop and strengthen community relationships.
  • Have the ability to develop innovative programs, review and enhance programs being offered or considered for both economy and the effectiveness in broadening our engagement in the communities in which we serve.
  • Strategic planning and Fundraising experience including annual campaigns and the securing of grants.
  • Fiscally sound business management approach.
  • A proven record of accomplishment of progressive budgetary leadership and advanced fiscal management practices.
  • YMCA Organizational Leader Certification or ability to achieve within 3 years.
Essential Functions

Key Performance Objectives

Position the Y as a Vital Partner for Community Change: Serve as an ambassador for the mission, purpose, and vision for the YMCA within the community. Possess the ability to develop and cultivate relationships with key stakeholders from a variety of backgrounds, while always upholding the highest standards and values of the Y. Ensure your Y is seen as a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community by connecting all people to their potential, purpose, and each other. Key Competencies: Communication & Influence, Engaging Community, Collaboration

Build and Lead Staff: Ensure a talent development system is in place and executed effectively with cultural competence. Hire, motivate, nurture, retain, and hold staff accountable for key objectives. Work towards recruiting, retaining, developing, and promoting staff. Encourage the team by creating a spirit of camaraderie, connection, and sense of mission and purpose. Create a learning organization to help staff achieve their highest potential. Key Competencies: Developing Self & Others, Inclusion, Emotional Maturity, Change Leadership

Implement a Strategic Plan: Execute the Board-approved strategic plan by aligning staff, programs, and resources to stated priorities. Establish timelines, assign ownership, track progress, and report regularly to the Board on outcomes and adjustments. Key Competencies: Change Leadership, Communication and Influence, Critical Thinking and Decision Making, Program/Project Management.

Fiscal Management: Use high-level financial analysis to forecast financial trends, growth and stability, while consistently leading the organization to balance or surplus operations by growing earned revenue and contributions and controlling costs. Empower and guide staff leaders to lead their departments to successful financial operations. Develop and implement stewardship strategies. Key Competencies: Fiscal Management, Critical Thinking & Decision Making, Developing Self & Others, Philanthropy

Maximize Operating Performance: Engage the board and appropriate staff to develop an annual tactical plan for identifying and achieving key goals and objectives towards operating with safe, relevant and sustainable practices. Quickly address issues that may arise, forecast future needs, and manage and direct the Y’s operations and activities. Key Competencies: Developing Self & Others, Critical Thinking & Decision Making, Innovation

Capital Development: Lead the Y through current and future capital projects, including planning, design, construction, and operational start-up of new, renovated, or expanded facilities. Key Competencies: Fiscal Management, Program/Project Management, Change Leadership, Critical Thinking & Decision Making.

Salary Range: $160,000- $190,000 annually

Benefits: Health, dental, and vision coverage. Life insurance. HSA and FSA options. YMCA membership and program discounts. Laptop and cell phone. Monthly driving per diem. Paid time off with accrual that increases by tenure. Professional development support. YMCA retirement plan eligibility after two years with a 12 percent employer contribution.

Residency Expectation: The CEO is expected to be highly engaged and visible in our community. Living in the YMCA’s service area is required.

Target Dates for the Search Process

  • Resumes accepted through: December 4th
  • Preliminary interviews scheduled: December 16th and 17th
  • Final interviews: January 7th and 8th
  • New CEO on board (anticipated): February

To Apply

Candidates will apply via the following website: https://tinyurl.com/cedar-rapids-ymca-ceo  

Application, References, Background Check, and Organizational Leader Certification:

Candidates must submit the following in their online application, uploading a PDF of your cover letter and resume. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered.

Candidates who advance to final interviews will need to submit six references (four professional and two personal). References checked only with prior notification. Successful candidate accepting the offer must pass a background check and must have a current Y-USA’s Organizational Leader Certification or obtain certification within the first three years from start date as the CEO.

Questions regarding this position should be directed to:

Wade Riedinger

Heartland Alliance Executive Director

YMCAs of Iowa, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota

515-971-5259

 

Grace Matos

Y-USA, Director of Executive Leadership and CEO Search

312-419-6810