The Opportunity
At the YMCA of Greater Birmingham, we show up for kids and families every single day, in afterschool programs, summer camps, swim lessons, youth sports leagues, childcare centers, and classrooms across the city. For many of the families we serve, the YMCA is more than a program. It is a place to belong.
We are looking for an executive leader to own and advance that work across our entire association. As Vice President of Youth Development Strategic Initiatives, you will set the strategy, lead the people, build the partnerships, and drive the results that make it all possible. You will work alongside passionate leaders across the organization to strengthen existing programs, launch new initiatives, and expand the YMCA's impact throughout the Greater Birmingham community.
You know how to bring people together around a shared vision. You build trust, develop leaders, and create momentum. You see opportunities where others see obstacles, and you know how to turn good ideas into meaningful results.
A key priority for this position will be leading the launch and long-term success of the YMCA Childcare Center of Excellence, an innovative partnership with the City of Birmingham designed to expand access to high-quality early childhood education while serving as a model for excellence across the region.
If you're a mission-driven leader who is ready to lead at scale — and ready to do work that you can point to and be proud of, this is that role.
What You'll Do
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Lead association-wide youth development strategy across afterschool programs, camps, sports, swim lessons, childcare, and family engagement
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Develop long-term priorities that grow participation, deepen community impact, and strengthen program quality across all program areas
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Lead, coach, and develop leaders and teams who deliver this work every day
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Build and expand partnerships with schools, municipalities, nonprofit organizations, and community leaders
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Establish association-wide standards for quality, safety, and program excellence
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Identify opportunities for growth and innovation that expand access for children and families
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Collaborate with branch and association leaders to create a unified, high-quality YMCA experience
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Contribute to organizational strategy and decision-making as a member of the senior leadership team
Who We're Looking For
You are an experienced leader who has built and led programs at scale across multiple locations. You know how to set a vision, develop people, and drive results — and you do it through influence and relationships, not just authority. You are strategic, organized, and accountable, and you bring the same expectations to your team that you hold yourself to.
In addition, you bring:
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Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred
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Five or more years of senior leadership experience in a nonprofit, youth-serving organization, recreation, community services, education, childcare, or a related field
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Demonstrated success leading people, organizational growth, strategic initiatives, and change
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Strong communication, relationship-building, and leadership skills
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The ability to think strategically while executing effectively
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A passion for strengthening communities and improving the lives of children and families
Why Birmingham?
Birmingham is one of the South's best-kept secrets. The region offers the amenities of a major metropolitan area with a cost of living that remains remarkably affordable. Residents enjoy nationally recognized restaurants, a thriving arts and entertainment scene, vibrant neighborhoods, and a growing economy that continues to attract new investment and talent.
For those who enjoy the outdoors, Birmingham is surrounded by hiking trails, mountain biking, lakes, parks, and weekend destinations throughout the Southeast. Whether you're looking for a vibrant downtown lifestyle, family-friendly communities, or easy access to adventure, Birmingham offers an exceptional quality of life.
Most importantly, Birmingham is a community where leaders can make a visible and lasting impact. The YMCA of Greater Birmingham plays a significant role in strengthening children, families, and communities across the region, creating an opportunity to do meaningful work while building a rewarding life.
Relocation assistance is available for qualified candidates.
What We Offer
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Competitive salary
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Medical, dental, and vision coverage
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Employer-paid life insurance
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12% employer retirement contribution once eligible
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Paid time off and holidays
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Free YMCA membership for your household
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Discounts on YMCA programs
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Executive leadership development opportunities
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The opportunity to make a lasting impact in the communities we serve
