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YGS seeks a dynamic, mission-driven operational leader as its Chief Youth Development Officer (CYDO). The CYDO will be responsible for establishing and overseeing Centers of Excellence which develop, innovate, maintain, and define programs and services (and associated best in class quality, consistency and equity standards, metrics and measures) offered at branch and non-branch facilities for the following areas: Child Care (e.g., licensed childcare, early learning, drop-in care, and Kids U), Day and Residential Camps, Y Guides, BOLD/GOLD and other youth development programs. The CYDO will shape the organization’s long-term strategy in these areas and enable the consistent delivery of high-quality, equitable programs and services at branches and facilities for all. The CYDO will provide a clear and actionable strategy to execute on vision for the organization both internally and externally, as set by the CEO. The CYDO will support the CEO in positioning YGS as a thought leader on social justice, youth development, and education. The CYDO should be an inspirational voice and ambitious in his or her desire to help grow and scale the organization regionally.
We are seeking a proven leader and strategic thinker who can direct change management with ease. The CYDO will be comfortable motivating, communicating, and influencing at all levels and in a multitude of environments. This executive will operate with the highest levels of integrity, honesty, and personal standards and ethics.
- Directly supervise a diverse and accomplished group of senior leaders with significant subject matter experts in the areas of Child Care (e.g., Early Learning, Before and After School Care, Drop In Care, and Kids U) Day and Residential Camps, Y Guides, Bold/Gold, and other youth development programs
- Responsible for developing an operations strategy that aligns with and supports the strategic direction of YGS
- Drive overall operational growth across youth development programs as One Y by fostering a climate of community, belonging, and achievement for all
- Foster a culture of innovation which includes piloting new programs and services, partnering with state and federal agencies, community-based programs, school districts, etc. to address the needs of YGS constituents
- Provide leadership and guidance to senior staff in developing sound operating plans while maintaining compliance with policies, laws, and regulatory requirements
- Develop annual performance goals and operating budget and cascade them throughout the organization to ensure goal alignment; monitor financial reports to ensure financial targets are met and expenses are controlled
- Ensure all programs and services are safe, vibrant, and well-maintained, and meet all requisite standards including those set by YGS, Y-USA, and Department of Health
- Present to various Committees, Elected Officials, Funders, Stakeholders, Board of Directors, and the President & CEO, as requested
- In collaboration with YGS SLT, fundraise and meet YGS financial targets and other goals and objectives annually
- Consider donating to the annual, capital, and planned giving campaigns and inspire giving by others internally and externally
- A minimum of 10 years as a childcare and youth development and youth programming expert and as a successful senior leadership team member of a medium or large, urban, financially stable YMCA or comparable leadership experience.
- Proven track record of executive leadership in urban multi-site management with diversity membership populations.
- Knowledge and experience in all aspects of operations, including staff supervision and development, successful membership practices and development, quality program execution, volunteerism, facility and property management and sound financial practices.
- 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.
- Strong strategic planning skills including execution expertise.
- Demonstrated experience in financial planning, budgeting, and analysis.
- Demonstrated experience with attracting and developing high-performance teams and a positive culture.
- Ability to partner and provide strategic level input to senior leadership and the ability to influence others at all levels of the organization
Desired attributes:
- Deep commitment to the mission of the YMCA, its members and the communities served
- Develop Self and Others; demonstrate executive team leadership and management, teamwork and personal accountability, seeking and providing feedback, coaching, and resources for development
- Strategic growth focus and strong work ethic; take the initiative and hold self and others accountable to meet or exceed quantitative and qualitative goals relating to operations, people (employees and members), philanthropy, finance, and volunteerism
- Inspire others: promote creativity, generate excitement, and reward risk-taking, while consistently demonstrating a high level of emotional maturity, maintaining a positive attitude and building strong relationships
- Values: Strengthen the Y’s culture by demonstrating the values of the Y - honesty, caring, respect, responsibility, and passion for excellence - in every aspect of work
- Inclusion: Models cultural competence and supports diversity, effectively working with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions
- Quality Results: Takes the initiative and holds self and others accountable to meet or exceed quantitative and qualitative goals relating to people (employees and members), philanthropy, finance and volunteerism
- Change Capacity: Facilitates change, seeks opportunities in the change process, models adaptability, and leads transition in support of the Y’s mission