Chief Executive Officer

THE OPPORTUNITY AT THE WABASH COUNTY YMCA

The CEO will provide visionary leadership and operational oversight for the YMCA. They will build upon our existing strengths while guiding the organization into the future — strengthening staff culture, expanding community engagement, ensuring financial sustainability, and deepening our positive local impact through programs and initiatives. The CEO will be a hands‑on, relational leader who lives and serves within the community, fosters strong partnerships, and drives results aligned with our core values.

Criteria for Candidates:

Education & Professional Credentials

• Bachelor’s degree required;
  Master’s degree or advanced nonprofit leadership credential preferred.
• Preference for a minimum 5–10 years of senior leadership experience (nonprofit, mission-driven organization preferred; YMCA experience a plus).
• YMCA Organizational Leader Certification or ability to achieve within 3 years.

Leadership & Management

• Demonstrated success in building and leading teams.
• High emotional intelligence, leadership presence, servant mindset, and commitment to YMCA values.
• Experience in strategic planning, managing change, and driving organizational growth.
• Knowledge and successful experience managing financial resources and leading organizational development.
• Experience maintaining affordable access to services while achieving financial viability.
• Track record of growing membership and programs in a nonprofit or membership organization.
• Strong communication skills — written, oral, public speaking — and ability to represent the YMCA effectively.

Community Engagement & Relationships

• Proven ability to build relationships, collaborate with diverse stakeholders, and engage in community outreach.
• Possess or have a willingness to learn and understand the needs of Wabash County and the region.
• An understanding of working in a small/medium-sized community and its unique dynamics.
• A willingness to be personally visible, active, and engaged in leadership of the community.
• Experience developing, managing, and growing partnerships with schools, businesses, and community organizations.

Program & Mission Expertise

• Familiarity with youth sports programming, senior services, and enrichment programs for teens and families.
• Commitment to diversity and inclusivity, creating welcoming environments for people of all backgrounds, income levels, and ages.

KEY

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

OF OUR NEXT CEO

The board believes its new CEO should be an experienced leader who has the background and qualities that will permit him or her to achieve excellence in the following roles:

Community Engagement & Partnerships: Serve as an ambassador for the Y’s mission, purpose, and vision for Wabash County and Northeast Indiana by attending community events, building strategic partnerships, volunteering, and forming meaningful relationships. Build and deepen partnerships with local schools, nonprofits, faith‑based organizations, health providers, businesses, local government, and community groups. Ensure your Y is seen as a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community by connecting all people to their potential, purpose, and each other as well as through outreach initiatives, volunteer programs, and inclusive activities.

Listen to, inspire, and engage diverse populations in the community to ensure programs meet real needs and promote belonging. Develop and maintain excellent relationships within the community and the Association, as well as within the state, regional, national, and international YMCA movements. Key

Competencies:

Communication & Influence, Inclusivity, Engaging Community, Volunteerism, Collaboration

Strategic Leadership and Vision: Lead development, implementation, and communication of a strategic plan that aligns with community needs, the Y’s mission, and organizational goals. Model YMCA core values through visible leadership, community presence, and personal integrity. Key

Competencies:

Servant Leadership, Understanding of local needs, Vision, Willingness to form partnerships

Staff Leadership: Ensure a talent development system is in place, and hire, motivate, nurture, retain, and hold…