Chief People Officer; CPO

The Chief People Officer (CPO) is a key member of the Executive Leadership Team (C-Suite), reporting directly to the President & CEO. The CPO provides strategic leadership and organizational vision for all aspects of people strategy, talent development, workforce systems, culture, and employee experience across the YMCA of Memphis & the Mid-South.

This position is responsible for creating and sustaining an exceptional employee experience that supports recruitment, retention, development, payroll, benefits, compliance, and employee relations. The CPO ensures that people strategy is fully aligned with the operational and business goals of every YMCA unit—including membership centers, centralized program areas, and community-based initiatives.

The CPO champions a culture of collaboration, innovation, accountability, and respect, ensuring the YMCA of Memphis & the Mid-South remains an employer of choice across West Tennessee, North Mississippi, Eastern Arkansas, and expanding markets.

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Organizational Development, Business Administration, or related.
• Minimum 5-10+ years of progressive leadership experience in HR, people strategy, or organizational development, including 3+ years at the executive level.
• Proven track record shaping culture, employee experience, relations, payroll, and engagement in complex organizations.
• Expertise in talent acquisition, retention, workforce planning, and leadership development.
• Strong knowledge of HR operations, compliance, and technology systems.
• Exceptional relationship-building, leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to lead large teams, drive organizational change, and deliver measurable results.
• Strong alignment with the mission and values of the YMCA.