DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMS

Job Description

Job Description

Decatur Shelby County YMCA

Job Description

Job Title: Director of Programs

Original Date: 9/30/2025

Revised Date: 08/05/2026

Department: Youth Development, Child Watch, Day Camp, Adult Leagues

Reports To: Executive Director (branch dependent)

 

Basic Functions and Scope of Responsibility

The Director of Programs is responsible for leading the YMCA's family, youth development, and community engagement initiatives, creating meaningful opportunities for individuals and families to connect, grow, and thrive. This role provides strategic oversight for youth programs, family engagement, Child Watch, sports and recreation, camps, classes, leagues, and other mission-driven offerings that advance the YMCA's vision of healthier, more connected communities.

The Director develops innovative programs that respond to community needs, leads and coaches program staff, and ensures every experience reflects the YMCA's commitment to excellence, safety, and belonging. Working collaboratively across departments and with community partners, this leader is responsible for expanding participation, strengthening member engagement, and delivering programs that inspire health, connection, and lifelong involvement with the YMCA.

Role Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and oversight for the YMCA's youth development, family engagement, Child Watch, sports and recreation, camps, classes, leagues, and community programs. 
• Recruit, develop, and lead high-performing teams that deliver exceptional member experiences and advance the YMCA's mission. 
• Design, implement, and evaluate innovative, mission-driven programs that respond to community needs and align with the Association's strategic plan. 
• Manage program budgets, participation, and performance metrics to ensure financial sustainability, operational excellence, and continuous improvement. 
• Ensure all programs meet YMCA standards for quality, safety, risk management and member experience. 
• Build and strengthen relationships with schools, community organizations, volunteers, and local partners to expand the YMCA's reach and community impact. 
• Serve as a collaborative leader and ambassador for the YMCA while supporting Association-wide initiatives and other duties that advance the organization's mission.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support Association goals and advance the YMCA's mission.

 

 

 

Education, Experience & Training 

• Bachelor’s degree in recreation, education, nonprofit management, human services or a related field required. Equivalent combinations of education and relevant leadership experience may be considered.
• Minimum of three to five years in youth development, recreation, education, nonprofit programming, or a related field.
• Minimum of two years of supervisory experience preferred.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• CPR, AED, and First Aid certification obtained within 30 days of employment.
• Ability to interact effectively with children, staff, and families from diverse backgrounds.
• Commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment for children and families.

 

Core Competencies

• Caring: Show a sincere concern for others
• Honesty: Be truthful in what you say and do
• Respect: Follow the golden rule 
• Responsibility: Be accountable for your promises and actions

Work Environment and Physical Demands

• Visual, auditory, and verbal ability to communicate effectively.
• Must have high level of alertness, concentration, and initiative. 
• Ability to lift 50 lbs. and stand, walk, or sit for extended periods of time; occasionally stoop/bend.
• Maintain a neat and professional appearance at all times.

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to the job. The job description is not intended to be a complete list of responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees in the job classification. This document is not a contract and does not, in any way, alter the at-will employment relationship.

DSYMCA provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type with regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity of expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.