Chief Program Officer

Lead innovative YMCA programs that drive youth impact, community growth, and mission-focused experiences across St. Pete.

Job Description

The Chief Program Officer (CPO) serves as a key member of the Executive Leadership Team and provides strategic leadership for the YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg’s full program portfolio. This includes Youth Development, Aquatics, Sports, Dance, and community-based initiatives and partnerships.

This role is responsible for driving program strategy, growth, and performance across the association, ensuring all programs are high-quality, financially sustainable, and aligned with the YMCA’s mission. The CPO leads efforts to expand community impact, strengthen partnerships, and position the YMCA as a leader in innovative, accessible programming.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Education, Nonprofit Management, or related field required; Master’s preferred.
• 10+ years of senior leadership experience in multi-site program operations, preferably within the YMCA or a similar organization.
• Strong background across multiple program areas (youth development, aquatics, sports, wellness, etc.).
• Demonstrated success in driving program growth, partnerships, and expansion initiatives.
• Experience managing multi-program budgets and revenue-generating operations.
• Proven ability to lead within a matrixed, multi-site organizational structure.
• Strong strategic thinking, operational execution, and relationship-building skills.
• Excellent communication skills and executive presence.

Essential Functions

Program Strategy & Portfolio Leadership

• Lead the development and execution of a comprehensive, association-wide program strategy focused on growth, impact, and sustainability.
• Oversee the full program portfolio, ensuring alignment between mission, community needs, and financial performance.
• Identify and advance opportunities for program expansion, new site development, and innovative service delivery models.
• Foster a culture of excellence, accountability, and innovation across all program areas.

Youth Development Leadership

• Provide strategic oversight of all Youth Development programs, including Preschool Academies, School-Aged Programs, Y Reads, Prodigy, and Teen Programming.
• Partner with program leaders to strengthen structure, strategy, and long-term sustainability.
• Drive continuous improvement in program design, staffing models, and participant outcomes.

Association-Wide Program Alignment

• Provide shared leadership for Aquatics, Sports, and Dance programs in partnership with branch leadership.
• Establish and implement association-wide standards, policies, and best practices.
• Ensure consistency in program design, delivery, and member experience across all locations.

Growth, Expansion & Community Partnerships

• Lead efforts to expand the YMCA’s reach through strategic partnerships with schools, municipalities, and community organizations.
• Identify and execute opportunities for program growth and market expansion.
• Serve as a key external representative, enhancing the YMCA’s visibility and community presence.

Program Performance & Innovation

• Establish and monitor key performance indicators, including participation, revenue, and program outcomes.
• Utilize data and insights to drive decision-making and improve performance.
• Champion innovative program models that increase accessibility, relevance, and impact.

Leadership & Executive Collaboration

• Lead, coach, and develop senior program leaders across multiple disciplines and locations.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to align programs with marketing, funding, and operational strategies.
• Build strong leadership alignment and accountability across branches and program areas.