Similar Positions
Aquatics Director
YMCA of San Diego County
Aquatics Director
Coatesville YMCA
Aquatics Program Coordinator
YMCA of the Fox Cities Inc
Lead with purpose! Build strong teams, deliver safe, high-quality aquatic programs, and create welcoming experiences for our community.
Job Description
POSITION SUMMARY
The Senior Manager, Aquatics provides strategic and operational leadership for a large or complex YMCA aquatics operation, including multiple pools or a materially broader aquatic portfolio. The role is accountable for safe, high-quality program delivery, financial sustainability, exceptional member experiences, and the development of a high-performing aquatic workforce.
In addition to leading day-to-day aquatic operations, the Senior Manager develops department leaders, strengthens staffing and succession pipelines, uses participation and financial data to drive program growth, and contributes to branch and association priorities.
The Senior Manager models the YMCA's core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility, fostering a culture of accountability, inclusion, professional growth, and continuous improvement.
OUR PATH
For 150 years, the YMCA of Metro Denver has been more than a place - it is a movement that lifts spirit, mind and body for all. Our direction is clear: Elevate Lives and Rise Together. Grounded by our mission and strengthened by the global YMCA movement we will elevate our people, purpose, partnerships and promise.
Qualifications
Required
- Bachelor's degree in Recreation, Sports Management, Education, Business, or a related field preferred; equivalent directly related education and experience will be considered.
- Typically three to five years of progressive aquatics leadership experience, or an equivalent combination of directly related experience and demonstrated scope.
- Demonstrated supervisory or management experience, including coaching and developing aquatic staff or leaders.
- Current certifications (or ability to obtain within designated timeframe):
Lifeguarding - CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers, First Aid, Emergency Oxygen Administration
- Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
- Experience managing budgets and departmental operations.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and membership/program management software.
- Successful completion of required background checks.
Preferred
- YMCA Team Leader Certification (or willingness to complete).
- Lifeguard Instructor (LGI).
- Water Safety Instructor (WSI).
- Certified Pool Operator (CPO) or Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO).
- Experience with fundraising, grant management, or community partnerships.
- Bilingual or multilingual communication skills.
Essential Functions
Strategic Leadership
- Develop and implement department strategies and annual operating plans aligned with branch and association priorities.
- Translate organizational goals into measurable department objectives.
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives that enhance program quality, operational efficiency, and member satisfaction.
- Identify emerging trends and recommend innovative aquatic programs and services.
Department Leadership
- Provide leadership and supervision to Coordinators, Head Lifeguards, supervisors, or other department leaders, as assigned; build leadership depth so operations do not depend on a single leader.
- Build a culture of accountability, collaboration, and professional growth.
- Develop succession plans and mentor emerging leaders throughout the aquatics department.
- Ensure consistent implementation of YMCA policies and operational standards across all assigned areas.
Financial Stewardship
- Develop and oversee department budgets.
- Monitor revenue, expenses, and financial performance.
- Analyze participation, pool utilization, staffing, payroll, and operational metrics to improve sustainability and guide resource decisions.
- Establish and pursue measurable participation and revenue-growth opportunities through program mix, scheduling, partnerships, special events, and other mission-aligned strategies.
- Ensure responsible stewardship of YMCA resources.
Program & Operational Excellence
- Oversee the quality and effectiveness of all assigned aquatic programs and pool operations.
- Ensure consistency in instructional standards, member experience, and safety practices.
- Evaluate program outcomes and implement improvements based on participation data and member feedback.
- Lead expansion or redesign of aquatic programming to meet community needs and maximize appropriate use of available pool capacity.
Talent Development
- Lead recruitment and retention strategies for aquatic staff and key department leadership positions.
- Develop leadership training, succession plans, and career pathways for aquatic staff and emerging leaders.
- Coach coordinators and head lifeguards through performance management and professional development.
- Foster employee engagement, recognition, and retention.
Risk Management & Compliance
- Ensure compliance with YMCA standards, state regulations, and organizational risk management practices.
- Review incident trends and implement preventive strategies.
- Oversee emergency preparedness planning and staff readiness.
- Maintain certification compliance throughout the department.
Community & Organizational Leadership
- Represent the YMCA in community organizations, schools, and aquatic partnerships.
- Develop relationships that strengthen community impact and expand program reach.
- Participate on association committees and organizational workgroups.
- Support fundraising campaigns, donor engagement, and community events.
Cross-Functional Leadership
- Collaborate with Membership, Healthy Living, Youth Development, Facilities, and branch leadership to achieve organizational goals.
- Contribute to branch or association-wide initiatives beyond the aquatics department, as assigned.
- Serve as a mentor and resource for department leaders across the YMCA.
Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies
Values Others
Builds Relationships
Communication
Emotional Maturity
Developing Self & Others
Decision Making
Change Leadership
Fiscal Management