Sports Director

YMCA Buffalo Niagara • Buffalo, NY

20h

About The Position

The Sports Director manages and oversees YMCA sports programs and leagues, ensuring high-quality, safe and engaging experiences that meet community needs. This role plans and coordinates program schedules, supervises staff, manages program operations and budgets, and builds strong relationships to expand participation and impact.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• One to two years of related experience, preferably with supervisory responsibility.
• CPR for the Professional Rescuer, First Aid, and Oxygen Administration certifications required (American Red Cross, HSI, or American Heart Association accepted). Instructor-level certification preferred and required within the first year of employment.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to build positive relationships.
• Demonstrated ability to use sound judgment and solve complex problems.
• Ability to relate effectively to diverse populations from all social and economic segments of the community.

Responsibilities

• Plan, implement, and evaluate sports programs and leagues to meet community needs.
• Supervise existing program activities and identify opportunities to expand or enhance offerings.
• Develop program schedules and ensure effective implementation of activities.
• Monitor program participation, effectiveness, and member satisfaction; respond to feedback in a timely manner.
• Assist with marketing efforts and distribution of program information to promote participation.
• Recruits, hires, onboards, trains, and develops program staff.
• Publishes and maintains staff schedules to ensure appropriate coverage for all programs.
• Provides ongoing supervision, coaching, and performance evaluations.
• Ensures staff certifications, credentials, and required training are current and properly documented.
• Identify and develop partnerships with community organizations to support and expand sports programming.
• Develop and maintain positive relationships with members, families, and community stakeholders.
• Respond to inquiries and resolve complaints professionally and promptly.
• Model relationship-building in all interactions to strengthen YMCA engagement and impact.
• Communicate, enforce, and model YMCA safety policies and procedures.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable state and local regulations related to sports programming.
• Maintains a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for participants, staff, and members.
• Ensure cleanliness and organization of program areas.
• Maintain adequate program supplies and oversee proper use and upkeep of equipment.
• Coordinate with facility staff as needed to support safe and effective program operations.
• Develop and manage program budgets in alignment with YMCA fiscal objectives.
• Monitor expenses and revenue to ensure financial sustainability of sports programs.
• Participate in YMCA committees, special events, and fundraising activities.
• Serve as a member of the YMCA management team and support association-wide goals and initiatives.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Free health insurance
• Employer-paid group term life insurance (1x annual salary)
• Employer-paid long-term disability coverage
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) through Child & Family Services
• A variety of voluntary benefit options
• Employees are immediately eligible to enroll and contribute to the Y Retirement Fund 403(b) plan, with a generous 12% employer-paid contribution after eligibility requirements are met.
• Our comprehensive paid time off program includes personal time off, holidays, and sick leave.
• Staff receive a complimentary YMCA Buffalo Niagara membership and program discounts.
• Additional benefits include ongoing training, an extensive leadership development program, and opportunities for career advancement.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director