Chief Operating Officer

The Summit Area YMCA•Summit, NJ

About The Position

As a key member of the CEO's senior leadership team, the Chief Operating Officer drives operational excellence and strategic growth across all YMCA branches. This role transforms vision into measurable impact by leading high-performance teams, fostering innovation, and ensuring the organization strengthens community and advances the SAY as the heart and hub of the community, supporting the mind, body and spirit. The COO activates strategic priorities through data-driven decision-making, collaborative partnerships, and comprehensive risk management, while protecting and growing the SAY’s most valuable assets: its people, programs, and community trust.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, Human Services, or related field. Master's degree preferred
YMCA Organizational Leader certification preferred
8+ years of progressive leadership experience in nonprofit operations, with 5+ years in senior management. Experience in the YMCA or similar mission-driven nonprofit highly preferred
Demonstrated success managing budgets of $10M+
Proven track record creating inclusive organizational cultures and high performing teams
Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments of the community; track record of building authentic, constructive relationships with others.
Knowledge and experience in all aspects of operations, including staff supervision and development, membership practices, program development and implementation, facility and property management, and sound financial practices.
Exceptional project management abilities with demonstrated success managing multiple complex initiatives simultaneously
Strategic thinking with the ability to balance big-picture vision and tactical execution
Strong analytical skills translating data into actionable insights and performance improvements
Resourceful problem-solver who addresses root causes and implements sustainable solutions
Outstanding written and verbal communication skills that engage and inspire diverse audiences
Proven ability to build authentic relationships across all social and economic segments
Financial acumen with experience in revenue generation, expense management, and budget development
Change management expertise with ability to drive organizational transformation

Nice To Haves

Master's degree preferred
YMCA Organizational Leader certification preferred
Experience in the YMCA or similar mission-driven nonprofit highly preferred
Experience overseeing facility planning and maintenance operations (both short-term needs and long-range strategic planning) preferred.

Responsibilities

Translate strategic vision into executable operational plans with clear KPIs, data driven analyses, and accountability measures
Supervise and mentor Executive Directors to create thriving branches
Monitor and analyze monthly financial reports, taking proactive action to ensure fiscal health
Guide organizational decisions on what to stop, start, and continue based on data and community impact
Implement and oversee comprehensive program evaluation systems ensuring alignment with our mission and quality standards
Foster a climate of innovation to offer impactful member-focused programs addressing evolving community needs
Lead staff through planning, development, and implementation of new program initiatives with measurable outcomes that advances our strategic initiatives and maximizes resources
Develop, monitor, and manage operating budgets ensuring revenue targets are met or exceeded
Control expenses while maintaining program quality and staff development investments
Create and track financial performance indicators that drive strategic decision-making
Develop pricing strategies that balance accessibility, competitiveness, and sustainability
Drive operational growth through program expansion, member recruitment, and retention
Pursue strategic collaborations, partnerships, and opportunities that align with our mission
Work with board committees and advisory groups to build volunteer relationships and maximize community engagement
Work collaboratively to execute fundraising strategies in partnership with CEO and Advancement
Protect organizational assets including people, property, finances, and reputation
Ensure comprehensive risk assessment, crisis planning, and accountability systems are in place
Guarantee facility safety, maintenance, and compliance with all applicable standards
Implement and monitor policies and procedures that remove barriers and foster opportunity for all
Coach and assess leadership team effectiveness through goal-setting, performance management, and development planning
Build and sustain a culture of excellence, recognition, safety, and continuous improvement
Communicate performance standards clearly and hold teams accountable to measurable outcomes
Create learning opportunities through coaching and professional development
Provide timely, data-driven reports to CEO, board committees, and Board of Directors
Serve as organizational representative at community events and with key partner organizations
Work effectively with multiple branch advisory committees to increase community and brand awareness
Participate in local, regional, and national YMCA trainings and networking opportunities