Senior Program Director

Strengthening Community Through Program Leadership
Job Description

Reporting to the Vice President of Operations, the Senior Program Director provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for Aquatics, Competitive Aquatics, Childcare, School Age Childcare, Camp, and Sports and Fine Arts programs. This role drives program excellence, staff development, and community engagement while advancing the YMCA’s mission and ensuring high-quality, safe, and impactful experiences for members and participants.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in human services, recreation, business, or related field (or equivalent experience).
  • Minimum of four years of program management experience, preferably in a YMCA or nonprofit setting.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead teams, manage budgets, and develop programs.
  • Strong relationship-building and collaboration skills.
  • Experience working with diverse populations is preferred.
Essential Functions

Leadership & Program Operations

  • Develop and implement operating plans that support program quality, participation, and member engagement.
  • Oversee day-to-day operations of assigned departments, ensuring alignment with YMCA goals and standards.
  • Serve as a key member of the leadership team, contributing to organizational success, member satisfaction, and retention.

Staff & Volunteer Development

  • Recruit, hire, train, and supervise staff and volunteers.
  • Build a high-performing team through clear communication, accountability, and ongoing development.
  • Model YMCA values and relationship-building practices.

Program Quality, Safety & Compliance

  • Ensure high-quality, member-focused programs through innovation, evaluation, and continuous improvement.
  • Ensure compliance with all state and local regulations and YMCA standards.
  • Oversee safety procedures and risk management practices across all assigned areas.

Financial Management

  • Provide oversight and ongoing management in the development of all assigned department budgets, ensuring sound fiscal management and responsible resource allocation.

Community Engagement & Partnerships

  • Build and sustain strategic relationships with community organizations to expand impact and awareness.
  • Collaborates with internal teams to strengthen program visibility and community presence.

Marketing & Growth Support

  • Partners with marketing for strategic promotion of programs and membership initiatives, supporting overall growth and engagement.

Events & Member Engagement

  • Provide leadership and support for key YMCA events and initiatives, including registrations, open houses, and community events (e.g., Healthy Kids Day).

Data & Reporting

  • Provides timely and accurate reports to support decision-making and track program performance.

Philanthropy

  • Actively supports the YMCA’s charitable mission through engagement in fundraising efforts.
  • Partners with staff and volunteers to grow participation in fundraising.
  • Cultivates relationships with members and donors to strengthen long-term philanthropic support.
Required Certifications
  • YMCA Multi-Team/Branch Leader certification or equivalent preferred.
  • Required certifications upon hire: CPR, First Aid, AED, Child Abuse Prevention.