Chief Operations Officer

Metuchen-Edison YMCA•Metuchen, NJ

15h•$160,000 - $190,000

About The Position

The Chief Operations Officer will be a dynamic, strategic, and mission-driven leader, leading the operations of the YMCA of MEWSA> This is a pivotal executive leadership role for a builder–operator: a leader who can both drive operational excellence today and build the systems, structure, and capacity needed for long-term growth and sustainability. 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. YMCA Mission To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. About the YMCA of MEWSA The YMCA of MEWSA is a leading nonprofit organization serving Middlesex County and surrounding communities. Annual Operating Budget: ~$15 million Net Assets: $24+ million Operations: 4 branches and 20+ licensed child care and school-based program sites Primary Program Areas: Youth development, child care, aquatics, wellness, and community-based programs The YMCA serves a diverse population and is focused on strengthening impact, improving operational performance, and expanding partnerships across the region. Community Located in Middlesex County, New Jersey, the YMCA serves vibrant, diverse communities with strong school systems and active municipal leadership. The region offers proximity to New York City and Philadelphia thanks to an extensive transportation system. Middlesex County boasts excellent public schools, and is home to Rutgers University, ensuring access to top-notch education. The County offers diverse recreational opportunities, from parks and sports facilities to cultural and historical sites. The robust healthcare system offers several top-rated hospitals ensuring quality medical care. The thriving job market offers ample employment opportunities for all career paths. Overall Middlesex County provides a perfect balance of convenience, community and opportunity for its residents.

Requirements

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)

Nice To Haves

YMCA experience preferred
YMCA Organizational Leader Certification preferred (or ability to obtain within an agreed-upon timeframe)
advanced degree preferred

Responsibilities

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
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
Provides strategic oversight of early learning and school-age childcare programs
Strengthens enrollment, retention, and program quality
Enhances competitiveness in school-based partnerships
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
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
Leads, develops, and inspires a high-performing leadership team
Fosters a culture of accountability, collaboration, and inclusion
Supports leadership development and succession planning