A Chief Executive Officer provides overall direction for companies and private and public sector organizations. Develops and defines company policies. Plans and directs operational activities, with the help of management executives and staff managers.
The Ozarks Regional YMCA is seeking a visionary, mission-driven leader to serve as its next Chief Executive Officer. This is an exceptional opportunity to lead a respected, multi-branch YMCA association with a proud 137-year history of strengthening communities across Southwest Missouri. The organization enters its next chapter from a position of renewed strength. Through focused leadership and the commitment of an engaged board and dedicated staff team, the YMCA has strengthened operations, improved organizational stability, and established a clear strategic direction for future growth. The next CEO will have the opportunity to build upon this momentum while expanding the YMCA's impact throughout the region. Serving nearly 20,000 members through multiple branches, childcare programs, camps, and community initiatives, the Ozarks Regional YMCA is uniquely positioned to address some of the region's most pressing needs, including youth development, affordable childcare, water safety, chronic disease prevention, and community well-being. The Board of Directors seeks a collaborative and strategic leader who will inspire others, build meaningful partnerships, strengthen philanthropic support, and elevate the YMCA's visibility as one of the region's leading nonprofit organizations. The successful candidate will possess the vision to identify emerging opportunities, the operational expertise to execute effectively, and the relationship-building skills necessary to unite stakeholders around a shared vision for community impact. Above all, the CEO will champion a culture rooted in the YMCA's mission, values, and unwavering commitment to youth protection. The safety and well-being of children will remain central to every decision, program, and interaction across the association.
WHY THIS LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITY MATTERS
The next CEO will join the Ozarks Regional YMCA at a pivotal and exciting moment in its history.
Key opportunities include:
Leading the implementation of an ambitious strategic vision focused on childcare access, water safety, health improvement, and community connection. Advancing a proposed $6 million capital development initiative designed to expand community impact and enhance recreational opportunities for families throughout the region. Building upon a strong foundation of community trust while elevating the YMCA's role as a leading convener, collaborator, and advocate for healthy communities. Strengthening long-term financial sustainability through philanthropy, earned revenue growth, operational excellence, and strategic partnerships. Developing and empowering the next generation of YMCA leaders while fostering a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement. For an accomplished executive seeking meaningful work and the opportunity to create lasting impact, the Ozarks Regional YMCA offers both a significant leadership challenge and an extraordinary platform for community transformation.
Qualifications:
Criteria for candidates: A bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college is preferred. Equivalent professional experience is required. Experience working across multiple locations and sites is preferred. Demonstrated fiscal management expertise, with a proven track record of overseeing annual budgets of $8 million or more. At least five years of senior management experience within a YMCA or a comparable organization, including direct supervision of staff across multiple levels.
