Vice President of Programs

Crossroads YMCA is seeking a visionary Vice President of Programs to lead and unify all program operations across our association. From youth development to wellness and community engagement, you’ll drive strategic impact while ensuring every program reflects our mission to strengthen the foundations of community.

POSITION SUMMARY: Under the direction of YMCA Leadership, the Vice President of Programs provides visionary leadership and operational oversight for all program areas across the Crossroads YMCA association. This includes Aquatics, Camp, School Age, Early Learning Academy, Wellness, KidZone, Youth & Family programs, and Gymnastics, Dance, Cheer, & Ninja. The Vice President of Programs is responsible for ensuring high-quality, mission-driven experiences that meet the diverse needs of our community and support the YMCA’s strategic priorities. This leader will drive innovation, consistency, safety, and engagement across all programs, while fostering a culture of excellence, inclusion, and accountability. The role also includes staff development, budget oversight, program growth, and strong collaboration with other departments to ensure seamless delivery of services and impactful community outcomes.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Develop and execute an association-wide program strategy aligned with the YMCA’s mission and strategic plan.
2. Provide leadership and guidance to program directors and coordinators to ensure consistent quality, innovation, and effectiveness in all program areas.
3. Monitor and analyze program participation, satisfaction, and outcome data to assess effectiveness, inform strategy, and demonstrate community impact.
4. Ensure compliance with all licensing, safety, and YMCA standards across all departments.
5. Oversee and support budgeting, forecasting, and financial management for all program areas to ensure sustainable growth and effective resource allocation.
6. Foster a culture of excellence in service delivery, member and participant experience, and staff engagement.
7. Drive recruitment, training, and professional development for program leaders to build a high-performing, mission-driven team.
8. Collaborate cross-functionally with membership, marketing, philanthropy, and operations to promote programs and support organizational goals.
9. Build and maintain strategic partnerships with schools, municipalities, and other organizations to expand community outreach and impact.
10. Lead innovation efforts to design and launch new or enhanced programs based on community needs and trends.
11. Support the planning and integration of new branches and program sites, ensuring alignment with association standards and community needs.
12. Champion diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging across all programs and staff teams.
13. Represent the YMCA at local and regional events, meetings, and conferences to build visibility and community engagement.
14. Ensure effective risk management practices and a strong focus on safety in all areas of programming.
15. Complete all required compliance and professional development training annually or as assigned.
16. Perform other duties as assigned to support the overall success of the association and ensure the delivery of high-quality programs and services.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Bachelor’s degree in education, recreation, child development, nonprofit management, or related field. Master’s degree preferred.
2. Minimum eight (8) years progressive leadership experience in program management, preferably within a YMCA or similar nonprofit organization.
3. Proven track record in managing large teams, multiple program areas, and achieving measurable results.
4. Strong leadership, coaching, and interpersonal skills with the ability to motivate and develop high-performing staff.
5. Deep understanding of child development, youth programming, and community engagement strategies.
6. Capability to manage complex projects, budgets, and timelines effectively.
7. Ability to work a flexible schedule as needed, including evenings and weekends for events or program support.
8. Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments of the community.
9. Excellent interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills.
10. Able to work independently and with minimal supervision.

YMCA COMPETENCIES (Organizational Leader)

The National YMCA Mission:

“To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.”

Caring: Champions a culture of caring throughout the association. Develops strategies that prioritize community needs and employee wellness.

Honesty: Sets the tone for a culture of honesty. Communicates openly with stakeholders and ensures organizational integrity and compliance.

Respect: Embeds respect into organizational strategy. Leads diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. Fosters a workplace where all voices are valued.

Responsibility: Demonstrates fiscal and operational accountability. Sets and upholds high standards for organizational success and impact.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• This position operates in a professional office environment routinely using standard office equipment.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs. occasionally and stand, walk, or sit for extended periods of time; occasionally stoop/bend.
• Always maintain a neat and professional appearance.
• Visual, auditory, and verbal ability to communicate effectively.
• This position requires regular travel between YMCA branches and community partner sites. A valid driver’s license and reliable transportation are required.