YWCA Chief Program Officer

YWCA Charleston is seeking a strategic and compassionate Chief Program Officer (CPO) to lead and strengthen our portfolio of social service programs. As a member of the executive leadership team, the CPO will ensure programs advance our mission to eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.

This role is ideal for a collaborative leader who is passionate about equity-centered services and experienced in guiding teams that serve underserved communities, including women and children, families experiencing housing instability, domestic violence, mental health challenges, and those in addiction or recovery.

• Provide leadership, coaching, and supervision to Program Directors across multiple service areas.
• Ensure programs are high-quality, trauma-informed, and aligned with mission and strategic priorities.
• Monitor program outcomes and foster a culture of continuous improvement and accountability.
• Support teams in meeting or exceeding grant and contract requirements, managing budgets, and reporting impact effectively.
• Strengthen data collection, evaluation, and storytelling to demonstrate community impact.
• Partner with HR, Development, Finance, and Marketing to support staff, funding sustainability, and communications.
• Represent YWCA with community partners, coalitions, and stakeholders.

• Bachelor’s degree required, Master’s in social work, public administration, human services, or related field preferred.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive leadership experience overseeing multiple programs or departments.
• Experience serving underserved and historically marginalized populations.
• Background in childcare/early education, housing or homelessness services, community building, mental health, and/or addiction recovery.
• Demonstrated expertise in trauma-informed care, confidentiality standards, and ethical service delivery
• Experience managing grant-funded programs, including compliance, budgets, and data reporting.
• Strong leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills.

At YWCA, you’ll join a mission-driven team committed to equity, safety, and opportunity for all. Your leadership will directly shape programs that support healing, stability, and empowerment for individuals and families in our community.