California YMCA Youth & Government Executive Director

Position Summary

The Executive Director, California YMCA Youth & Government provides strategic, external-facing leadership for one of the nation’s largest civic education and youth leadership programs, serving thousands of middle and high school students across the state. Reporting to the Chief Program Officer, this position is responsible for advancing the program’s mission through a strong focus on fundraising, philanthropy, governance, and statewide relationship development, while ensuring high-quality program delivery and operational excellence.

• Age: 21 years old or older
• Education:
  
  Bachelor’s degree in public administration, political science, education, nonprofit management, or related field; master’s degree preferred
• Related experience:
  Minimum of 6–8 years of progressive leadership experience in nonprofit management, youth development, civic engagement, or related field
• Demonstrated experience in fundraising, donor development, and resource generation
• Experience working with or supporting boards, committees, or volunteer governance structures
• Experience managing large-scale programs, events, or initiatives
• Experience building partnerships with schools, community organizations, or public sector stakeholders
• Strong fundraising and relationship development skills with the ability to engage donors and partners
• Ability to lead through influence in a statewide, network-based program model
• Strong communication, public speaking, and stakeholder engagement skills
• Strategic thinking and ability to translate vision into action
• Strong organizational and leadership skills in a dynamic environment
• Must hold or be willing to obtain within 60 days: YMCA Approved Infant-Child-Adult CPR, First Aid, and AED certification

• Ability to plan, lead, and participate in activities
• Job is performed in indoor and outdoor environments throughout the year, including at Camp Grounds
• Ability to lift 30–35 lbs
• This position requires frequent statewide travel, including evenings and weekends for conferences and events
• Reliable transportation required
• This position offers flexibility for the ideal candidate to work in Los Angeles or Sacramento. Frequent travel between both cities is expected throughout the year
• You must have the physical, visual, and auditory ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation