Job Description

Be part of the build! We are breaking ground on a stunning new facility in early 2026. Join our growing team now!

Under the general direction of the Vice President of Youth Development and aligned with the YMCA's Christian values, this position supports the work of the Y, the Program Director oversees the development and operations of our aquatics, sports, and youth development programs and designs practices, processes, and procedures for strong program and project management. This role is directly responsible for two of the program areas and indirectly of the third. Additionally, this role is responsible for ensuring high-quality community development, customer service, program growth and retention strategies, and modeling the YMCA's core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility.


Polk County, North Carolina, offers an exceptional quality of life in the stunning foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, blending natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and a welcoming small-town atmosphere. Residents enjoy a peaceful, safe community with friendly neighbors, highly rated schools, and a lower cost of living. At the YMCA, you'll join a supportive, mission-driven team making a lasting difference in the community.

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.


Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in human services, social services, recreation, business, or equivalent. Previous experience in program management, preferably in a YMCA or other nonprofit agency. Ability to direct programs through supervision of volunteers and staff, development and monitoring of budgets, marketing and public relations, program development, and fund-raising. Prefer knowledge of, and previous experience with, diverse populations. Proven track record of developing authentic and deepened relationships with others. Ability to establish and maintain collaborations with community organizations. YMCA Team Leader or Multi-team/Branch Leader certification preferred. CPR and First Aid certifications required within 30 days of hire. Essential Functions
Develops, implements, and manages operating plans to promote program and/or membership growth for the YMCA. Executes strategies to ensure that members and/or program participants connect with one another and the YMCA. Ensures programs and services meet community needs to include supervising existing program activities, establishing new program activities, and expanding the program within the community as needed. Assists in the marketing and distribution of program information. Hires, trains, and supervises staff and volunteers in assigned areas. Facilitates communication and provides leadership. Models relationship-building skills (including Listen First) in all interactions. Develops and maintains collaborative relationships with community organizations. Maintains regular, clear, and concise communication within the area of responsibility. Manages the program, including developing and monitoring the program budget to meet fiscal objectives; compiling program statistics to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of and participation in the program; securing and scheduling the needed facilities; and creating and scheduling the classes, activities, or events. Provides leadership and support to the annual fundraising campaign and volunteer committees/boards as assigned. Develops and maintains effective working relationships within the community. Assures compliance with state and local regulations. Ensures that program standards are met and safety procedures are followed. Coordinates special events and activities. Provides data and reports as required for assigned programs. Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies
Mission and Community Oriented: Models and teaches YMCA values. Champions inclusion activities, strategies, and initiatives. Ensures high-level services that differentiate the YMCA from other providers. Provides volunteers with orientation, training, development, and recognition. People Oriented: Empathetically listens and communicates for understanding when negotiating and dealing with conflict. Builds relationships to create small communities. Effectively tailors communications to the appropriate audience. Provides staff/ volunteers with feedback, coaching, guidance, and support. Results Oriented: Holds staff/ volunteers accountable for high-quality results using a formal process to measure progress. Conducts prototypes to support the launching of programs and activities. Develops plans and manages best practices through engagement of the team. Cultivates relationships to support fundraising. Effectively manages budgets. * Personal Development Oriented: Utilizes non-threatening methods to address sensitive issues and inappropriate behavior or performance. Shares new insights. Facilitates change; models adaptability and an awareness of the impact of change.