Director of Operational Risk

The Director of Operational Risk – Volunteerism, Membership, & Sports leads the integration of association-wide operational risk management with volunteer compliance, membership operations, and sports safety initiatives across all branches, programs, and camps. This role develops strategies to mitigate risk, strengthen organizational readiness, and support a safe and inclusive environment through comprehensive planning, training, and partnership with Membership, Wellness, Group Exercise, Sports, and program, branch, and camp leadership.

The Director also provides guidance during incidents, supports coordinated response efforts, and ensures risk-aligned practices across high-engagement programs and volunteer activities.

In collaboration with the Senior Director of Operational Risk and the Risk Management team, the Director contributes to the development of association-level risk mitigation strategies. The Director works closely with branches, camps, and Association Resource Center departments to assess risks, identify and resolve operational or compliance gaps, support volunteer credentialing processes, and provide ongoing coaching and resources to program, branch, and overnight camp staff.

As the Association’s lead for operational risk policies, initiatives, and program guidance related to Volunteerism, Membership, Wellness, Group Exercise, and Sports, the Director serves as the primary risk liaison for these functional areas. The Director is responsible for advancing compliance, operational consistency, and safety practices in alignment with the mission, goals, and policies established by YMCA leadership, governing committees, and the Board of Directors.

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution or 3+ years of relevant experience in organizational or administrative support roles. Experience with risk management programs is a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to lead, coach, and support teams. Builds trust, provides clear direction, and helps people navigate change with confidence. Develops talent and leads effectively through ambiguity.
• Experience working collaboratively with staff, volunteers, community partners, nonprofits, and government agencies. Builds strong relationships and influences outcomes through partnership and shared goals.
• Strong planning and problem‑solving skills. Uses data to assess risk, track progress, ensure compliance, and communicate results clearly to leadership and teams. Focused on efficiency, stewardship, and continuous improvement.
• Clear and effective communicator across written, verbal, and virtual platforms. Comfortable leading meetings, trainings, and presentations for diverse and multi‑generational audiences.
• Highly organized and adaptable. Manages multiple priorities, meets deadlines, and stays focused in a fast‑paced environment.
• Proficient in Microsoft 365 tools, including Excel, SharePoint, Teams, and Power BI. Learns new systems quickly and uses technology to support collaboration and informed decision‑making.
• Approaches change and conflict with professionalism, empathy, and fairness. Creates space for open communication and inclusive problem‑solving.
• Leads through collaboration and influence, fostering accountability, teamwork, and shared ownership of success.
• Demonstrates strong alignment with the YMCA’s mission, values, and commitment to inclusion, belonging, and community impact. Acts with integrity and handles sensitive information with discretion.
• Self‑directed and proactive. Works independently, takes initiative, and balances immediate needs with long‑term goals.