Executive Director

Company: YMCA
Location: Lawrence
Posted on: January 13, 2026

Job Description:

Join the Merrimack Valley Y and shape the future of a community cornerstone. Bring your passion, strategic insight and heart for service. Job Description Our Lawrence Branch is searching for an Executive Director who brings passion, strategic insight and a heart for service to one of the regions most trusted community institutions. This is your opportunity to lead a team that believes deeply in strengthening individuals, families and neighborhoods-one program, one partnership, and one connection at a time. This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Ensures successful operation of the Lawrence Branch of the Merrimack Valley YMCA, including membership, program development, SRO-Housing, volunteer recruitment, staff supervision, community relations, collaborations, budgeting and financial results. Qualifications -Bachelors degree in human services, social services, business or equivalent. -Eight or more years of management experience, preferably in a YMCA or other nonprofit agency. -Knowledge and experience in all aspects of operations, including staff supervision and development, l membership practices, program development and implementation, volunteerism, facility and property management and financial practices. -Understanding of the nature and purpose of the YMCA and the respective roles of volunteers and staff -Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments of the community. -Proven track record of developing authentic constructive relationships with others. -Ability to establish and maintain collaborations with community organizations. -YMCA Organizational Leader certification preferred. Essential Functions -Oversees the hiring, training, development, supervision and evaluation of Lawrence Branch staff and SRO staff. -Develops, manages, and monitors the operating budget of the Lawrence Branch and meets or exceeds budget targets. -Develops the annual operating plan (guided by the MVY Strategic Plan) of the Lawrence Branch. -Directs the financial development activities of the Lawrence Branch (annual campaign, grants, capital campaigns, special events). -Coordinates the development of the Lawrence Branch Board and committees. Directs the volunteer activities (policy and program) of the Lawrence Branch. -Represents and promotes the YMCA in the local community and develops positive working relationships with other organizations, businesses, and governmental entities. Develops, maintains, and models collaborative relationships with community agencies in service delivery area. -Develops and directs high quality relationship-based member and program participant engagement strategies with a focus on families. -Models relationship-building skills in all interactions with staff, volunteers, members, and the community. -Fosters a climate of innovation to develop member and participant-focused programs which support the Y mission, goals, and strategies. -Ensures the safety and maintenance of high quality facilities, grounds, and equipment. -Directs marketing and communication efforts for the Lawrence Branch, to effectively communicate benefit to the community. -Serves as a member of Y management and supports the overall objectives of the YMCA. -Performs other duties as assigned. Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies Mission Advancement: Incorporates the Y’s mission and values into the organization’s vision and strategies. Ensures community engagement; promotes the global nature of the Y. Leads a culture of volunteerism ensuring engagement, inclusion, and ownership. Leads a culture of philanthropy. Collaboration: Advocates for and institutionalizes inclusion and diversity throughout the organization. Initiates the development of relationships with influential leaders to impact and strengthen the community. Is recognized as an inspirational community leader who navigates complex political and social circles with ease. Communicates to engage and inspire people within and outside the YMCA. Ensures that a talent management system is in place and executed effectively. Operational Effectiveness: Possesses penetrating insight and strong strategic and critical thinking skills. Invests resources in well-designed innovation initiatives. Creates a structure to deliver organization-wide results to achieve objectives. Develops and implements stewardship strategies. Determines benchmarks and ensures appropriate leadership to meet objectives. Personal Growth: Creates a learning organization. Effectively drives change by leveraging resources and creating alignment to expand organizational opportunities. Shares authority and demonstrates courage and humility. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.

Keywords: YMCA, Peabody , Executive Director, Social Services , Lawrence, Massachusetts