Executive Director (UW Health Riverfront YMCA)

About the role

The YMCA of Rock River Valley is seeking a cause-driven leader to serve as the Executive Director of UW Health Riverfront YMCA. This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization committed to strengthening the community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

Responsibilities

• Oversees the total operation of UW Health Riverfront YMCA, including membership, marketing, programs, facilities, volunteer and staff development, financial development, community relations and collaborations with community agencies.
• Member engagement and staff development are key areas of focus for the position with an emphasis on facility safety, staff management, and member-service standards.

Qualifications

• YMCA Multi-team/Branch Leader Certification, preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in human services, social services, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience preferred.
• Six or more years of management experience, ideally within a YMCA or nonprofit organization, with a focus on youth development or educational programming.
• Proven success in managing budgets and fiscal resources of $2M or greater, securing funding, and managing resources.
• Knowledge and experience in all aspects of operations, including staff supervision and development, membership growth practices, program development and implementation, volunteerism, facility and property management, and financial practices.
• Ability to direct total operations through volunteer development, supervision of staff, development and monitoring of branch budget, marketing and public relations, and program development.
• Ability to analyze data and make informed decisions that drive program success and adapt to changing community needs.
• Experience in management and development of volunteer involvement; ability to recruit top community leaders.
• Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments of the community.
• Ability to establish and maintain collaborations with community organizations.
• Leadership qualities that inspire collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to the YMCA’s mission and values.
• Passion for YMCA mission, with a commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment.

Essential Functions

• No two days are the same in this role—but every day is centered on leading people, strengthening the community, and advancing the YMCA's mission.
• Start your day by walking the branch, connecting with members and staff, ensuring the facility is welcoming, safe, and ready to serve the community.
• Lead and develop your team by coaching department leaders, supporting staff development, and fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and innovation.
• Guide branch operations by reviewing key performance metrics, budgets, membership trends, and program outcomes to make informed decisions that drive success.
• Partner with department leaders to create exceptional programs, strengthen member experiences, and identify opportunities for growth and innovation.
• Build relationships throughout the community by meeting with community partners, businesses, volunteers, and Branch Advisory Board members to expand the YMCA's impact.
• Support fundraising and strategic initiatives by engaging donors, leading volunteer committees, and helping advance annual and capital campaign goals.
• Ensure operational excellence by overseeing staffing, compliance, facility standards, safety practices, and financial performance across the branch.
• Collaborate across the association with executive leadership and support teams to align branch priorities with organizational goals and community needs.

Required Certifications

• YMCA Multi-team/Branch Leader Certification, preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in human services, social services, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience preferred.
• CPR, AED, First Aid, and Handle with Care Certifications required within 90 days of hire.
• Current Praesidium Academy training.