Director of Operations

Director of Operations

Join our YMCA team and help shape the future of a mission-driven organization. Nestled in the heart of small-town Iowa, you’ll enjoy a slower pace, strong community connections, affordable living, and a place where neighbors still look out for each other. Imagine finishing your workday and being minutes from scenic parks, local shops, and Friday night ball games. It’s the perfect blend of professional impact and quality of life.

As Director of Operations, you will lead the YMCA’s efforts to grow and retain membership, enhance community engagement, and strengthen the Y’s operations. This position is responsible for the overall strategy, planning, and execution of program and facility operations, membership, marketing, and communications initiatives that support the YMCA’s mission of youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The role combines strategic leadership with hands‑on implementation to ensure exceptional member experiences, consistent messaging, and measurable growth in participation and community impact.

• Lead all operations, including recruitment, retention, onboarding, and member engagement strategies.
• Develop and implement marketing plans that align with organizational goals, promote programs and services, and increase visibility in the community.
• Oversee the design, production, and distribution of promotional materials, digital content, and advertising campaigns.
• Manage all social media platforms, including content creation, scheduling, engagement, and analytics to build brand awareness and drive participation.
• Maintain the YMCA’s website and digital presence, ensuring content is current, engaging, and consistent with YMCA brand standards.
• Monitor membership trends, analyze data, and prepare regular reports to inform decision-making and track progress toward goals.
• Collaborate with program and wellness staff to create integrated marketing campaigns and cross‑promotional opportunities.
• Ensure exceptional customer service standards at the front desk and throughout all member touch points.
• Supervise and train membership staff, fostering a culture of teamwork, accountability, and mission‑driven service.
• Develop and oversee member feedback systems to continuously improve service quality and member satisfaction.
• Coordinate community outreach and special events to promote the YMCA’s impact and attract new members.
• Serve as staff lead for the Membership & Marketing Committee, providing leadership, meeting coordination, and actionable data to guide committee discussions and initiatives.
• Work with committee members and volunteers to strengthen community relationships and develop innovative outreach ideas.
• Maintain brand integrity and ensure all communications follow YMCA of the USA’s standards and guidelines.
• Partner with the CEO and leadership team to support fundraising, annual campaigns, and community relations initiatives.
• Manage the department’s budget, ensuring responsible use of marketing and membership resources.

• Bachelor’s degree in Business or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of operations, membership, or community engagement experience, preferably in a nonprofit or YMCA environment.
• Proven ability to develop and execute marketing strategies and track measurable outcomes.
• Strong leadership and team management skills with experience supervising staff and coordinating volunteers or committees.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including proficiency in social media and digital communication strategies.
• Proficiency in marketing software, CRM systems, website management, and social media platforms.
• Strong analytical and organizational abilities.
• Commitment to the YMCA mission and core values.

Frequent interaction with members, staff, volunteers, and community partners. Office environment with occasional requirements for event setup and attendance at community activities. Occasional evening or weekend work for events or committee meetings. Ability to lift up to 25 lbs as needed.

• Competitive Pay – Earn a great salary while making a difference.
• Room to Grow – Career growth opportunities within a worldwide fellowship of YMCAs.
• Work‑Life Balance – Paid time off and holidays to recharge and relax.
• Get Paid Faster – Work Today, Get Paid Tomorrow option.
• Family‑Friendly Benefits – Discounted child care and program fees.
• Stay Active for Free – Free family YMCA membership.
• Flexible schedules to help balance work and life.

• Mission Advancement – Promote and support the YMCA mission through storytelling and community engagement.
• Collaboration – Build relationships across departments and with community partners.
• Operational Effectiveness – Use data‑driven strategies to achieve membership and marketing goals.
• Personal Growth – Demonstrate adaptability, creativity, and willingness to learn.

CPR / First Aid within 90 Days.