Director of Operations

Interview Date Set for March 6, 2026

POSITION SUMMARY 

The Director of Operations is a senior leadership role focused on unifying and elevating the internal functioning of the Kankakee Area YMCA. Reporting directly to the CEO, this position ensures operational excellence and department-level alignment across all program and membership areas. 

While the CEO leads external partnerships, philanthropic strategy, and long-term vision, the Director of Operations is charged with bringing that vision to life internally—coordinating people, processes, and systems to create a high-quality, mission-driven experience for all members and staff. 

This role directly supervises the Directors of Childcare, Youth Development, and Aquatics; oversees two Membership Coordinators; and manages vendor and custodial relationships. The position is pivotal in building a culture of accountability, service, and cohesion across the organization. 

 
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 

Organizational Leadership & Department Oversight 

• Supervise the Directors of Youth Development, Childcare, and Aquatics to ensure shared outcomes, program excellence, and consistent service delivery. 

• Provide leadership and professional development to two Membership Coordinators responsible for front desk operations and member experience. 

• Champion a collaborative culture across departments that models YMCA values and supports cross-functional success. 

• Serve as the YMCA’s internal anchor for operations—ensuring stability, responsiveness, and staff alignment. 

Support of Organizational Vision 

• Translate the CEO’s strategic goals into operational initiatives, systems, and staff action plans. 

• Coordinate timelines, benchmarks, and accountability structures that support organizational growth and impact. 

• Monitor progress across departments and provide the CEO with updates, insights, and operational recommendations. 

Membership Strategy & Revenue Focus 

• Set and communicate a bold vision for membership growth as the Y’s primary revenue stream. 

• Lead membership planning in collaboration with Coordinators, ensuring data-informed decisions and member retention strategies. 

• Align membership campaigns, promotions, and onboarding practices with program schedules and seasonal priorities. 

Facilities & Vendor Coordination 

• Serve as the primary liaison for facility maintenance requests, repairs, and project coordination through Helixintel and preferred vendors. 

• Manage external custodial relationships to ensure daily readiness and cleanliness. 

• Ensure internal departments communicate facilities needs in a timely and effective manner. 

Operational Integration & Systems Management 

• Facilitate operational meetings, project tracking, and interdepartmental communication. 

• Oversee internal systems related to schedules, staffing coordination, and budget support. 

• Collaborate closely with the HR & Finance Director to align staffing needs and resource planning. 

STRATEGIC PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES 

Vision Execution & Systems Alignment 

1. Establish internal systems and staff alignment that allow the CEO’s strategic priorities to move forward effectively. 

1. Anticipate and address operational barriers that could delay mission impact. 

Membership & Financial Sustainability 

1. Drive improvements in new member acquisition, retention, and service consistency. 

1. Create accountability and support for Coordinators in executing front-end excellence. 

Staff Development & Team Cohesion 

1. Foster strong relationships and shared goals among directors and frontline leaders. 

1. Provide coaching, tools, and systems that build confidence and clarity among staff. 

Facilities Readiness & Risk Management 

1. Ensure spaces are clean, safe, and aligned with programming needs. 

1. Monitor vendor and custodial performance, providing timely feedback and action. 

QUALIFICATIONS 

• Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, operations, or a related field (Master’s preferred). 

• At least 5 years of progressively responsible leadership experience in YMCA or mission-driven environments. 

• Demonstrated success supervising senior program leaders and coordinating operational infrastructure. 

• Knowledge of Daxko, Helixintel, and vendor/project management systems preferred. 

• Ability to build teams, manage complex projects, and communicate with clarity. 

• CPR, First Aid, and Child Abuse Prevention certifications (or acquired within 30 days). 

 
WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS 

• Must be able to move throughout facility, respond to issues, and assess readiness of spaces. 

• Regular use of computers, communication platforms, and tracking software. 

• Ability to lift up to 30 lbs occasionally and be available for evenings or weekends when needed. 

 
PERFORMANCE INDICATORS 

• Increased alignment across departments and programs. 

• Improved member retention, satisfaction, and membership/revenue growth. 

• High-functioning internal systems and communication channels. 

• Quality assurance in facilities and vendor performance. 

• Staff development and retention in supervised departments.