The Athol Area YMCA is an equal opportunity employer. We work to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to reach their...
Job Description
THE OPPORTUNITY AT THE ATHOL AREA YMCA
The Athol Area YMCA is a cornerstone of the North Quabbin region, serving individuals and families through programs that strengthen community, promote health and well-being, and foster youth development. Rooted in a strong tradition of service, the Y is both a gathering place and a trusted partner for community impact.
The Board of Directors seeks a CEO who will lead the organization into its next chapter, someone who can honor the Y’s legacy while guiding strategic growth, strengthening financial sustainability, and deepening community relationships. This leader will work closely with a committed board, dedicated staff, and engaged volunteers to ensure the Y remains accessible, relevant, and responsive to community needs.
About The Athol Area Ymca
The Athol Area YMCA has served the North Quabbin community for generations, providing programs and services that support youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. From childcare and youth programs to wellness, fitness, and community outreach, the Y is committed to meeting people where they are and helping them thrive.
Our Mission
To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.
Our Cause & Values
To strengthen the foundations of community and instill the values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
Our Culture – The Y Experience
Welcoming: Open to all; a place of belonging
Genuine: We value individuality and authenticity
Hopeful: We believe in potential and possibility
Nurturing: We support personal growth
Determined: We are relentless in strengthening our community
CURRENT KEY STRATEGIC INITIATIVES
- Strengthening financial sustainability and operational efficiency Expanding access and participation through financial assistance and outreach Investing in staff development and organizational culture Enhancing programs that address community health and youth development. Deepening partnerships across the North Quabbin region
ORGANIZATIONAL SNAPSHOT
Membership: Total number of members: 2,923
Branch Information
- Athol Area YMCA (Main Branch)
Core Programs
- Youth Development & Childcare
- Health, Wellness & Fitness
- Aquatics
- Community Health Programs
- Camps and Seasonal Programming
Annual Support Campaign
- Current Year Goal: $80,000
- Prior Year Total: $70,440
- Individuals Receiving Financial Assistance (Prior Year): 247
CEO Direct Reports
Board of Directors: 16 members with standing committees including Finance, Governance, Development, and Strategic Planning
Financial Snapshot
- Current Annual Budget: $3,000,000
- Current Debt: N/A
- Endowment: $1,238,000
- Prior Year Operating Net: $317,000
About Our Community
Athol, Massachusetts is located in the heart of the North Quabbin region and offers a strong sense of community, access to outdoor recreation, and a family friendly environment. The area values collaboration, service, and local impact, making the YMCA a vital community hub.
Qualifications
CRITERIA FOR CANDIDATES
- Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred or equivalent experience.
- Minimum of 7 years senior leadership experience in a YMCA or comparable nonprofit organization.
- Demonstrated success in financial management and budgeting.
- Proven fundraising and development experience.
- Strong community engagement and relationship building skills.
- Ability to lead change and inspire trust.
- YMCA Organizational Leader Certification required or ability to obtain within three years.
Essential Functions
KEY SKILLS AND ABILITIES OF OUR NEXT CEO
The Board believes its next CEO will demonstrate strength in the following areas:
- Mission driven leadership with a deep commitment to the YMCA’s cause.
- Strategic vision and the ability to translate strategy into action.
- Strong financial acumen, including budgeting, forecasting, and long-term sustainability.
- Proven experience building and leading high performing teams.
- Exceptional relationship-building skills with staff, board members, donors, and community partners.
- Fundraising and development expertise, including annual campaigns, grants, and donor cultivation.
- Ability to navigate change with resilience, transparency, and optimism.
- Commitment to equity, inclusion, and access for all.
KEY COMPETENCIES
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 include 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
Improve Operating Performance: Engage the board and appropriate staff to develop an annual tactical plan for identifying and achieving key goals and objectives towards 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
Fiscal Management: Use high-level financial analysis to forecast financial trends, growth, and stability, while consistently leading the 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
Position the Y as a Vital Community Partner: 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
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
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
Salary, Benefits, & Criteria
Salary Range: $105,000-$125,000
Benefits Include
- YMCA Retirement Plan for 12%
- 403(b) Savings Plan
- Health Insurance
- Paid Time Off per personnel policy
- Additional benefits per YMCA personnel policies
Residency Expectation: Living in or near the YMCA’s service area is preferred.
SEARCH PROCESS TARGET DATES
- Resumes Accepted Through: May 1, 2026
- Preliminary Interviews: June 8 & 9 VIA zoom
- In-Person Interviews: June 25 & 26
- Anticipated Start Date: Late Summer
How To Apply
Candidates must submit a resume and cover letter (PDF format only). Applications without a cover letter will not be considered. Final candidates will be required to submit professional and personal references and successfully complete a background check.
Application Link: https://tinyurl.com/athol-area-ymca-ceo
Questions About The Search Process
Sandy Morander
Senior Consultant, YMCA of the USA Cumberland, RI
(C) 210-284-5593
(E) [email protected]
Questions About The Ymca
Jess Rumlow
Chief Operating Officer
Alliance of Massachusetts YMCAs
(M) 912-467-3488
(E) [email protected]
