Youth & Sports Director

MERRIMACK VALLEY YMCA•Andover, MA

1d•$55,000 - $65,000•Onsite

About The Position

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The Youth & Sports Director is responsible for leading and growing youth sports leagues, recreational programming, and other fee-based youth enrichment programs at the Andover/North Andover YMCA. Core responsibilities include management of youth basketball and volleyball leagues, specialty vacation week programs, gymnasium operations and scheduling, and additional youth-focused paid programs that support engagement and development. This role promotes skill development, healthy lifestyles, teamwork, leadership, and fun while ensuring safety, program quality, and excellent member service. The Youth & Sports Director works under the direction of the Executive Director and collaborates with staff, volunteers, and community partners to ensure engaging, mission-aligned programming that reflects the values of the YMCA. This position also includes staff and volunteer development, fiscal accountability, strategic planning, facility coordination, and relationship building to support continued program growth and member satisfaction. OUR CULTURE: Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger, beginning with you.

Requirements

Associate or a minimum of 3 years of full-time equivalent experience in in Recreation, Physical Education, Sports Management, Youth Development or a related field preferred.
Minimum of 2 years of experience in leading youth recreational or athletic programs, including staff and volunteer supervision.
Experience managing youth recreation leagues preferred.
Strong leadership, planning, communication, and customer service skills.
Familiarity with diverse populations and experience fostering inclusive and welcoming environments.
Familiarity with a variety of sports and the ability to teach multiple skill levels
Organized, dependable, and able to manage multiple programs simultaneously.
CPR, First Aid, and AED certification required (or willingness to obtain within 60 days).
Ability to work evenings and weekends (Tuesday-Saturday schedule) and events as needed.

Nice To Haves

Multilingual a plus.

Responsibilities

Designing, implementing, and leading a broad range of youth sports leagues, recreational programs, clinics, enrichment offerings, and other fee-based youth programs that are inclusive, engaging, and developmentally appropriate.
Overseeing signature sports programs including the Youth Basketball League (YBL), Youth Volleyball League, paid youth clubs, vacation week programs, and pickleball.
Developing, implementing, and evaluating program curriculums and seasonal schedules to maximize participation and member engagement.
Recruiting, training, supervising, and evaluating part-time staff, coaches, officials, and volunteers; promoting an inclusive, respectful, and values-based culture.
Collaborating with the marketing and membership teams to ensure strong program promotion and registration, including digital communications, flyers, and outreach.
Managing sports equipment, spaces (e.g., gymnasium, outdoor courts), and schedules to ensure safe, efficient, and shared usage of facilities.
Supporting effective risk management and ensuring adherence to YMCA and local safety standards at all times.
Maintaining accurate records of attendance, incidents, registrations, and program metrics.
Providing outstanding customer service to members, parents, and participants and proactively resolving any concerns.
Coordinating special events, tournaments, showcases, family engagement opportunities, and seasonal celebrations that enhance the member experience.
Supporting YMCA annual campaign and volunteer initiatives through active participation and relationship-building.
Attendance is mandatory for all trainings and meetings required by management team.
Perform any and all other functions necessary to support the smooth and efficient operation and overall success of the Y, including manager on duty and other assigned obligations.
Collaborating with the Branch leadership team on strategic scheduling and space usage, supporting maximum benefit to members and program areas.
Collaborating with the Executive Director on budget development, revenue tracking, and cost control to meet financial goals.
Collaborating with the Branch leadership team, as an integral member of the management team to recruit, hire, train, and develop staff and volunteers at the Andover/North Andover Y.
Collaborating with the Association and Branch leadership teams, on philanthropy efforts including but not limited to playing an active role in the annual campaign, recruiting campaigners, and serving where needed on planning committees to attain annual campaign goal.
Collaborating with the Branch leadership team, on outreach efforts which may include participation and support of community activities, thereby growing the Y’s community outreach efforts and positive community impact.
Collaborating with the Branch leadership team, to work collaboratively on membership, promotions, building coverage, and other day-to-day responsibilities that may be required to support essential operations and priorities.