As Director of Youth Development, you are building more than programs—you are building experiences that shape lives. You are the leader who ensures every child feels safe, every family feels welcomed, and every staff member understands the deeper purpose behind the work they do. You create systems that support excellence, but you also create culture—one where staff feel developed, families feel trust, and youth feel they belong. This role requires someone who can balance strategy and operations, vision, and execution. You must think beyond daily schedules and ratios to see the bigger picture: how youth development programs strengthen the future of our community. This is about leadership, trust, accountability, and creating meaningful impact through every interaction.

Qualifications:

Education:

A college degree in Human Services, Education, Recreation, Business Administration, Child Development, or a related field is a plus, but not required. Equivalent combination of education and relevant experience is welcome.

Experience:

Four (4) or more years of progressive leadership experience in youth development, childcare, camp, education, recreation, or non-profit program management. Demonstrated experience leading multiple programs, supervising staff, and managing daily operations across diverse program areas. Experience with staff recruitment, training, coaching, and performance management. Proven experience managing department budgets, enrollment growth, and operational planning. Experience working with families, schools, and community partnerships preferred. Previous YMCA experience strongly preferred.

Technical Skills:

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and Google Workspace. Experience with childcare management systems, scheduling software, registration platforms, and reporting tools preferred. Familiarity with licensing systems, compliance documentation, and program reporting requirements. Ability to analyze data and use metrics to improve program performance.

Communication Skills:

Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to effectively engage families, staff, volunteers, and community partners. Ability to handle sensitive parent concerns and staff issues with professionalism and sound judgment. Strong presentation and facilitation skills for staff trainings, meetings, and community engagement. Ability to tailor communication style to diverse audiences and situations.

Professional Skills:

Strong leadership presence with the ability to inspire trust, accountability, and team engagement. Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously. Strategic thinking balanced with strong operational execution. Sound decision-making and problem-solving abilities. Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively across departments. High level of professionalism, flexibility, and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.

Additional Qualifications:

Knowledge of state childcare licensing requirements and youth development best practices preferred. Ability to establish and maintain strong community partnerships and collaborative relationships. Ability to work evenings, weekends, and occasional extended hours as needed for programs and events. Ability to travel to schools, meetings, trainings, and community events as required.