Chief Operations Officer

A once in a lifetime opportunity to join a thriving Mid-Major Y in Central New Jersey - where leadership counts!
Job Description

Reporting to the President & CEO, the COO serves as a key member of the senior leadership team and is responsible for the oversight of branch operations, program delivery, and key functional areas. The COO ensures alignment with the YMCA’s strategic plan and advances the organization’s mission through high-quality programs and services.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred
  • Minimum of 7–10 years of senior leadership experience in a multi-site organization
  • YMCA experience preferred; nonprofit or mission-driven leadership required
  • Strong operational, financial, and program management experience
  • Demonstrated success in building systems, improving performance, and scaling operations
  • Proven ability to lead and develop teams
  • YMCA Organizational Leader Certification preferred (or ability to obtain within an agreed-upon timeframe)
Essential Functions

Cause-Driven Leadership

Models the YMCA’s mission and values in all aspects of leadership 
Builds relationships that support community engagement and impact 
Serves as a visible and trusted leader internally and externally 

Operational Leadership

Provides direct leadership and oversight of branch operations and program delivery 
Ensures high-quality, consistent program execution across all locations 
Drives operational efficiency, performance, and accountability 
Youth Development & Child Care

Provides strategic oversight of early learning and school-age childcare programs 

Strengthens enrollment, retention, and program quality 
Enhances competitiveness in school-based partnerships 
Financial Development & Stewardship

Partners with the CEO and finance team to achieve budget targets 
Improves program profitability and cost management 
Identifies and executes opportunities for revenue growth and sustainability 
Strategy & Innovation (Builder Role)

Builds and implements scalable systems, processes, and operating models

Work in tandem with the CEO to lead the conversion of strategic priorities into clear operational plans supporting the Association’s Balance Scorecard and KPIs.
Leads initiatives that strengthen organizational infrastructure and long-term sustainability 
Supports new program development and expansion opportunities  

Human Resources & Team Leadership

Leads, develops, and inspires a high-performing leadership team 
Fosters a culture of accountability, collaboration, and inclusion 
Supports leadership development and succession planning 

Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies

The COO will demonstrate the following Y-USA leadership competencies:

Mission Advancement

Reinforces the YMCA’s values within the organization and the community 
Builds relationships that advance the YMCA’s cause 

Collaboration

Develops and maintains strategic relationships 
Works effectively with staff, volunteers, and community partners 

Operational Effectiveness

Holds staff accountable for high-quality results using a formal process 
Effectively manages resources to meet strategic objectives 

Personal Growth

Demonstrates adaptability and emotional maturity 
Models a commitment to continuous learning and development