President & Chief Executive Officer

Company: YMCA
Location: Metuchen
Posted on: July 10, 2025

Job Description:

The YMCA is an equal opportunity employer committed to valuing diversity and practicing inclusion. Job Description Exceptional Opportunity to Lead a Vibrant YMCA This is a unique opportunity for a seasoned leader to make a profound impact at a mission-driven YMCA within a thriving community. Our new CEO will drive innovative strategies to expand the YMCAs reach and deepen its impact within the service area. Cultivate strong partnerships with key stakeholders to enhance the YMCAs reputation and further its mission. Guide and inspire a dedicated staff team passionate about serving the community. And prioritize the safety and well-being of all individuals, including youth, families, and older adults, by exceeding industry standards and ensuring full compliance. The YMCA Board is seeking a visionary and community-minded CEO with proven leadership experience. The CEO must have the ability to develop and implement strategic plans that align with the YMCAs mission and long-term goals. Have excellent communication, relationship-building, and collaboration skills. Must have a track record of success in achieving measurable outcomes and driving organizational growth; coupled with a deep understanding of the YMCAs values and a commitment to its mission. The YMCA boasts a strong and engaged Board of Directors and a dedicated staff team committed to serving the community. This is an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic organization and make a lasting difference. About the YMCA: Since 1921, the YMCA of Metuchen, Edison, Woodbridge, and South Amboy has evolved from a single branch serving the Metuchen and South Edison communities into a network of four facility branches. Today, the association includes eight Early Learning Child Care Centers, 20 Before/After School Program sites, 10 summer day camps, and one outdoor community pool. In the late 1990s, the Metuchen Branch YMCA (built in 1921) underwent significant renovations, and over the following two decades, three additional facility branches were added. In April 2002, the YMCA at the Woodbridge Community Center became part of the YMCA family, operating within the center in collaboration with the Township of Woodbridge. Although the YMCA left the community center in November 2013, it still serves the Woodbridge community through childcare services. We are the preferred provider for the Board of Educations before- and after-school programs within district school buildings. Additionally, we operate two childcare centers located in Avenel and Colonia section of Woodbridge. In December 2002, the Edison YMCA opened in partnership with the Jewish Community Center of Middlesex County. This combined facility, known as the Community Campus, was the first of its kind in the United States. Since its opening, membership of the Community Campus has grown to 5,550 members. In 2013, a $2 million expansion added 6,000 square feet of space to the branch. A leasing agreement with Edison Township led to our Association’s management of the Oakcrest Family Swim Club in Edison, an outdoor pool facility, in 2003. This 14-acre site includes a 25-meter 6-lane pool, spiral tube slide, playground, kiddie pool, bathrooms with showers, upper & lower pavilions, tennis courts, basketball courts, sand volleyball courts, and outdoor camp space. The corporate headquarters, also known as Wernik House, at 483 Middlesex Avenue in Metuchen is another unique partnership, with the YMCA of MEWSA acquiring the building in 2008 and establishing its leadership offices and Board room while accommodating the Mt. Zion Masonic Lodge’s continued occupation. This Facility includes two private offices, two large multi-person offices, six cubicles, and a conference room. In September 2010, the South Amboy YMCA opened its doors and currently has over 2,900 members from South Amboy, Sayreville, Parlin, and surrounding areas. In 2019, the YMCA signed a five-year management agreement with the Township of Piscataway to operate their newly constructed Piscataway Community Center, now known as the YMCA at the Piscataway Community Center (YPCC). The facility has since grown to over 13,000 members, and a new five-year management agreement was awarded in December 2024. The YMCA of MEWSA opened its first childcare site in January 1990. Since then, childcare services have become a significant economic driver for the organization. The Childcare Services Branch has grown through collaborations with local churches and several municipalities, establishing eight early education childcare programs, ten summer camps, and over twenty before- and after-school program sites in the communities we serve. As the YMCA of Metuchen, Edison, Woodbridge, and South Amboy has expanded, so has our commitment to community service. Through various charitable initiatives, we continue to strengthen our communities with programs focused on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. In March, The Board of Directors adopted the 2025 Strategic Plan, which will guide us as we continue to serve our communities. Our Mission and Values: At the YMCA of Metuchen, Edison, Woodbridge, and South Amboy (YMCA of MEWSA), and at the YMCA at Piscataway, our mission is to build strong kids, strong families and strong communities through programs that develop values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. Our Cause: We believe that lasting personal and social change occurs when everyone works together for the benefit of all. The strength and wellbeing of our communities – in mind, body and spirit - is our cause. Our Vision: We strive to be at the heart of our communities, transforming lives through practices, policies, programs – and in places – that create a true sense of belonging. At the YMCA of MEWSA our aim is to create opportunities for people to connect, grow, and thrive. Who We Serve: We are committed to ensuring access for everyone – regardless of background, ability or circumstance. We believe that strong communities are built when all people have access to the resources and relationships they need to thrive. This commitment is at the heart of our promise to be for all. Strategic Pillars: Community Impact and Engagement A Thriving, Mission-Driven Workforce Sustainable, Resilient Growth Membership: Total Number of Members in Association: 26,652 Total Number of Membership Units in Association: 13,028 % Youth: 10% Adults: 40% % Household:40% % Senior: 10% Branch Information: Metuchen Branch: 39,000 sq/f. We own the property. Originally built in 1921 the building has had three additions the last one in 2000. The building consists of a wellness Center, a number of smaller workout spaces, a large group activity room, two pools, a gymnasium, and childcare classrooms. Edison Branch: 15,000 SQ/F facility that is owned by our association but is physically adjacent/connected to the JCC of Middlesex County. The facility is also known as the Community Campus. Membership income is split between the JCC and the Y. The building consists of a wellness center, a large group activity space, and childcare rooms. The Branch also operates an outdoor pool during the summer months. This outdoor property is owned by the Township of Edison and we are in a lease agreement until 2026. South Amboy Branch: 37,000 SQ/F facility that we lease from the South Amboy Redevelopment Agency. The building consists of a wellness center, pool, full gymnasium and large program space. YMCA at the Piscataway Community Center: 82,000 SQ/F facility owned by the Township of Piscataway. The building consists of three pools, a full gymnasium, an Art Center, a program space, a meeting space, and a café. We operate the facility for a management fee. All income-fees and expenses belong to the Township of Piscataway. This facility includes a spray park. Child Care Branch: The centralized child care branch operates six off-site child care centers and oversees all child care services in the Township of Woodbridge. This branch is responsible for child protection assurance, curriculum development, and quality assurance. Core Programs: Aquatics Chronic Disease Prevention and Management Early Childhood Education Group Exercise Out of School Time: Before and After School, Day Camp Youth and Adult Sports Youth Sports Annual Support Campaign: Prior Year’s Total: $379,000 Current Year’s Goal: $420,000 Total number of people receiving financial assistance prior year: 167 Capital Campaign(s): Anticipated Staff: FT: 76 (46 exempt) PT: 518 Seasonal: 51 CEO Direct Reports: VP of Operations P of Child Care Executive Assistant Director of Development Marketing & Communications Director Director, Human Resources Controller IT Director Board of Directors: Number of Governing Board Members 24 Board Demographics Black 4.17% White/Caucasian 87.5% Hispanic 0% Asian/Asian/Indian 8% Two or More Races 4.17% Female 48% Male 52% Committees: Board Governance DEI Facilities Sustainability Finance Fund Development Human Resources Investment IT Property Risk Branch Board/Advisory Metuchen Branch Edison Branch South Amboy Branch Child Care Branch Financial: Current Annual Budget Size: $14,589,000 Current Debt: $317,000 Current Endowment: $1,988,689 3-year annual surplus/deficit: Last year: (-$149,000) Previous year: $84,000 Previous year: (-$190,000) About the Area: Middlesex County, NJ, offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience, making it an attractive place to live. Its prime location provides easy access to major cities like New York City and Philadelphia, thanks to an extensive transportation network. The county boasts excellent public schools and is home to Rutgers University, ensuring top-notch education. Residents enjoy diverse recreational opportunities, from parks and sports facilities to cultural and historical sites. The robust healthcare system, with several top-rated hospitals, ensures quality medical care. Middlesex Countys vibrant community hosts numerous cultural events and festivals, fostering a strong sense of belonging. The thriving job market, particularly in sectors like healthcare, transportation, and professional services, offers ample employment opportunities in the area. Despite its proximity to major urban centers, the county maintains a suburban with a relatively lower cost of living and affordable housing options, contributing to a high quality of life. Overall, Middlesex County provides a perfect balance of convenience, community, and opportunity for its residents. Qualifications Criteria for Candidates: Accredited 4-year college degree or equivalent experience. Must demonstrate excellent written and verbal communication skills and personal values consistent with the YMCA mission. Minimum ten years prior experience in a senior management role with a YMCA or related experience at a comparable organization with direct supervision of multiple levels of staff and employees. Must be able to develop and strengthen community relationships. Have the ability to develop innovative programs, review and enhance programs being offered or considered for both economy and the effectiveness in broadening our engagement in the communities in which we serve. Strategic planning and Fundraising experience including annual campaigns and the securing of grants. Fiscally sound business management approach. A proven record of accomplishment of progressive budgetary leadership and advanced fiscal management practices. YMCA Organizational Leader Certification or ability to achieve within 3 years. Essential Functions The board believes its new CEO should be an experienced leader who has the background and qualities that will permit him or her to achieve excellence in the following roles: Key Skills and Abilities of Our Next CEO: Fiscal Management: Use high-level financial analysis to forecast financial trends, growth and stability, while consistently leading organization to balance or surplus operations by growing earned revenue and contributions and controlling costs. Empower and guide staff leaders to lead their departments to successful financial operation. Develop and implement stewardship strategies. Key competencies: Fiscal Management, Critical Thinking & Decision Making, Developing Self & Others, Philanthropy Develop and Implement a Strategic Plan: Work effectively with volunteers, community leaders, and key staff, to create and develop a strategic plan that addresses the needs of the communities served by the Y and includes defined organizational strategies, a clear implementation plan with deliverables, and measurable goals. Key competencies: Change Leadership, Communication & Influence, Critical Thinking & Decision Making, Program/Project Management Position the Y as a Vital Partner for Community Change: Serve as an ambassador for the mission, purpose, and vision for the YMCA within the community. Possess the ability to develop and cultivate relationships with key stakeholders from a variety of backgrounds, while always upholding the highest standards and values of the Y. Ensure your Y is seen as a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community by connecting all people to their potential, purpose, and each other. Key competencies: Communication & Influence, Engaging Community, Collaboration Build and Lead Staff: Ensure a talent development system is in place and executed effectively with cultural competence. Hire, motivate, nurture, retain, and hold staff accountable for key objectives. Work towards recruiting, retaining, developing, and promoting staff. Encourage the team by creating a spirit of camaraderie, connection, and sense of mission and purpose. Create a learning organization to help staff achieve their highest potential. Key competencies: Developing Self & Others, Inclusion, Emotional Maturity, Change Leadership Improve Operating Performance: Engage the board and appropriate staff to develop an annual tactical plan for identifying and achieving key goals and objectives toward operating with safe, relevant, and sustainable practices. Quickly address issues that may arise, forecast future needs, and manage and direct the Y’s operations and activities. Key competencies: Developing Self & Others, Critical Thinking & Decision Making, Innovation Steward Fundraising Efforts: Develop and implement an annual fundraising plan that will establish the YMCA as a leading nonprofit organization within the community through the engagement of members, volunteers, staff, and donors. Identify the need for successful capital fundraising, while taking the organization to a new level of effectiveness and impact in annual giving and endowment. Key competencies: Philanthropy, Engaging Community, Communication & Influence Residency Expectation: Living within the YMCA service area is preferred. Salary Range: $235,000- $275,000 Benefits: Y Retirement (percent paid by Y, by employee) contribution once eligibility is met. 8% Y Retirement 403B Savings Account eligible on first day of employment PTO (how many days) 16-26 days, depending on years of service to the Y movement 1 Diversity Day 40 hours of accrued sick time per/year Health plan (percent paid by Y, by employee) or stipend if health plan is not offered 80% for employee covered by Y, Family benefit is divided between the Y and the employee Other benefits per personnel policy. Car Allowance Phone Allowance Program Discounts Family Membership 1x Life Insurance HDHP - NYEBP EE Premium Based on Coverage Level Search Process Target Dates: Resumes accepted through: 7/27/25 Preliminary interviews scheduled: 8/13 & 8/14 (evening virtual interviews) In-person interviews: (8/27 & 8/28) New CEO on board (anticipated): 9/29/25 References, Background Check, and Organizational Leader Certification: Candidates must submit the following in their online application: a resume, and cover letter. All documents must be in pdf format only. No other documents should be uploaded. Applications without cover letters will not be considered. Successful candidate accepting the offer must pass a background check and must have a current Y-USA’s Organizational Leader Certification or obtain certification within the first three years from start date as the CEO.

Keywords: YMCA, Fairfield , President & Chief Executive Officer, Social Services , Metuchen, Connecticut