Director of Group Exercise & Community Programming

Montclair YMCA•Montclair, NJ

6d•$43,000 - $50,000

About The Position

The Director of Group Exercise & Community Programming plays a key leadership role in advancing the YMCA of Montclair’s mission to strengthen community through healthy living. This position is responsible for the strategic planning, daily operations, and quality of both Group Exercise programming and delivery of Community programming. The primary focus of this role is ensuring that every member receives a positive, personalized, and welcoming experience—one that fosters engagement, satisfaction, and long‑term retention. The Director leads, coaches, and inspires staff teams to deliver consistent, high‑quality service and exceptional interactions that reflect the Y’s culture and values. At the YMCA of Montclair, we strive to be the Employer of Choice, provide World-Class Service, and be the Charity of Choice. Our goal is to be a place where employees are empowered and excited to come to work. All staff ensure that members experience customer centric, individual attention each and every day. We strive to be the preferred partner to collaborate with others, identifying and meeting our community needs.

Requirements

Passion and enthusiasm, to include successful deliverables related to developing and exceeding member expectations within class format.
Service: Exceptional customer service skills, with experience to include genuine enthusiasm for serving members.
Nationally recognized certifications in Group Exercise and to include specialty formats as required by certifying entity.
Physically and mentally able to respond to emergencies and administer CPR effectively.
Must be willing to obtain YMCA certifications.
Two to three years’ experience working with varied ages in a wellness environment.
Must have a CPR/AED and First Aid Certification OR get certified within 90 days of employment.
Creative and inspiring program development.
Proven ability to lead staff and volunteers.
Ability to work under occasional stressful conditions and to work irregular hours.
Ability to work independently.
Strong communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.
Excellent verbal and written communication.
Proven team player.
Ability to interpret, adopt, and apply guidelines/procedures.

Nice To Haves

Degree in health, nutrition, exercise science or equivalent a bonus, with a minimum of two years successful experience in the Health and Wellness fields in a Group Exercise Role.

Responsibilities

Establish, grow, and manage community health programs including (but not limited to) YDPP, BPSM, and Parkinson’s programming.
Recruit, train, and supervise qualified staff and volunteers to ensure high-quality program delivery and community impact.
Monitor, maintain, and report accurate program data in accordance with YMCA, grant, DOH and partner requirements.
Build and sustain collaborative relationships with community partners, agencies, and stakeholders to support program visibility and growth.
Develop a dynamic and inclusive Group Exercise schedule that meets the diverse needs, interests, and fitness levels of the membership.
Identify and implement industry trends, innovative formats, and “pop‑up” specialty programs to enhance member engagement.
Recruit, hire, train, and mentor Group Exercise instructors who are capable of delivering energetic, safe, and engaging classes.
Monitor program performance and provide data‑driven reports, including attendance, utilization, cost per participant, and financial performance.
Ensure that all classes adhere to safety protocols, YMCA standards, and best practices in exercise instruction.
Foster a positive, team‑oriented culture among instructors, emphasizing professionalism, enthusiasm, and exceptional member connection.
Implement and uphold all YMCA policies related to safety, risk reduction, and abuse prevention.
Provide ongoing supervision, training, and feedback to ensure staff maintain clear boundaries and follow established procedures.
Respond promptly and confidentially to concerns or policy violations and follow required reporting protocols.

Benefits

Benefits include complimentary YMCA membership; accrued PTO; Medical, Vision, and Dental Health Insurance; paid Holidays, enrollment in the Y’s retirement program (must complete 1000 hours within 2 years of service) with 12% of salary contributed by the Y; 75% discount for SACC (before and aftercare), Early Learning Center, and Summer Camp programs in our Y facilities; a rewarding career with professional growth and advancement opportunities; a challenging and fun work environment with creative and talented individuals.

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