Associate Vice President of Operations and Programs

Company: YMCA
Location: Phoenix
Posted on: March 19, 2026

Job Description:

The Valley of the Sun YMCA is honored to be among the top 50 YMCA associations in the United States. Job Description The Associate Vice President of programs and operations provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for branches and association programming of sports, aquatics and family programs. In addition to association-level leadership, the Associate Vice President serves as the acting Branch Leader for one designated site and provides supervisory oversight for additional branch location(s), ensuring operational excellence, consistent program standards, and alignment with association priorities across locations. This role is responsible for ensuring high-quality programs, exceptional experiences, and strong operational performance aligned with the organization’s mission and strategic priorities. The Associate Vice President partners closely with branch leadership teams to strengthen program quality, drive innovation, and expand community impact. This leader cultivates strong relationships with community stakeholders and volunteer boards, supporting effective board engagement, development, and governance. With a focus on continuous improvement and innovation, the Associate Vice President works collaboratively across departments in the association to enhance program delivery, grow membership engagement, and ensure the branches remain responsive to evolving community needs. The ideal candidate is a mission-driven leader with demonstrated success in multi-department operations, staff development, board relations, and strategic program growth. They possess the ability to inspire teams, champion innovation, and build partnerships that advance the organization’s community impact. Qualifications This position calls for a person of good judgment with broad vision, excellent interpersonal skills, strong organization, verbal, and written communication skills. College degree in a related field preferred with a ten or more years of operations experience and demonstrated success in staff supervision, teamwork, development and implementation of innovative concepts and collaborations. Must have a proven track record of strategic thinking, board development, fundraising, programming and responding to multiple priorities. Ability to operate with a high level of ethics and integrity and reflect a value system of mentorship, collaboration, and commitment to the Y’s mission. Will have a successful track record in applying proven practices related to relationship management and program services. Experience in data collection, analysis and outcome measurement. Experience with community relations and collaborations. Experience in program development, implementation, and evaluation. Experience in management and supervision with highly developed organizational skills and ability to motivate and develop staff. Experience with the development and implementation of quality methodologies. Experience with the development and implementation of innovative processes. Knowledge of major YMCA programs including membership, wellness, aquatics, sports, and teens. Essential Functions Strategic Leadership & Branch Operations Provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for branches and association programming of sports, aquatics and family programs. Serves as the acting Branch Leader for one designated site and provides supervisory oversight for additional branch location(s), ensuring operational excellence, consistent program standards and alignment with association priorities across locations. Serve as the “Voice” of the program within the association and within the movement as needed. Partner with executive leadership to implement organizational strategies, ensuring alignment with mission, strategic priorities, and community needs. Drive operational excellence by monitoring key performance indicators including membership growth, program participation, retention, and financial performance. Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement across all program departments. Program Quality & Innovation Ensure high-quality, safe, and impactful programming that delivers meaningful experiences for members and participants. Identify opportunities to innovate and expand programs that respond to emerging community needs and trends. Develop and implement program standards, evaluation processes, and best practices to maintain excellence across all branch operations. Promote cross-department collaboration to enhance program integration and member engagement. Staff Leadership & Development Provide leadership, mentorship, and professional development for branch directors and department leaders. Build strong teams through effective hiring, onboarding, coaching, and performance management. Promote a positive, inclusive workplace culture that supports employee engagement and retention. Board & Volunteer Development Partner with branch volunteer boards and committees to strengthen governance, community engagement, and strategic alignment. Support board development and recruitment, ensuring active and effective volunteer leadership. Provide staff leadership to volunteer boards, including preparation of reports, strategic discussions, and program updates. Membership & Community Engagement Champion strategies that enhance the member experience, engagement, and retention. Develop and maintain strong relationships with community partners, schools, and local organizations to expand community impact. Support initiatives that increase access to programs and services for diverse populations. Financial & Operational Oversight Oversee branch budgets and financial performance, ensuring responsible stewardship of resources. Ensure compliance with organizational policies, safety standards, and regulatory requirements. Be on call for any facility emergencies. Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies Program / Project Management Developing Self & Others Communication & Influence Fiscal Management

Keywords: YMCA, Phoenix , Associate Vice President of Operations and Programs, Human Resources , Phoenix, Arizona