Chief Executive Officer

Job Description

The AL-MS Alliance of YMCAs is seeking a visionary leader to guide a dynamic network of 22 YMCA Associations united under one mission: strengthening communities across two states. The Alliance serves as a powerful voice for youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, amplifying impact through collaboration, advocacy, and innovation. This is more than a leadership role—it is an opportunity to shape the future of a multi‑state movement.

The CEO will champion strategies that unite local Ys, elevate their collective influence, and position the Alliance as a trusted partner in public policy and community well‑being.

By forging partnerships with policymakers, funders and community leaders, this leader will expand access to programs that change lives—from chronic disease prevention and childcare to water safety and youth development. The individual who steps into this role will serve as the Alliance’s chief ambassador, mobilizing resources, cultivating relationships, and inspiring collaboration across diverse communities.

The Y is one of the nation’s leading nonprofits that strengthens communities through the impact areas of Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility. Every day, the Ys work side‑by‑side with their neighbors to make sure that everyone, regardless of age, income or background has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive.

The AL‑MS Alliance of YMCAs unites 22 YMCA Associations—15 in Alabama and 7 in Mississippi—to strengthen communities and advance the Y’s mission of youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Together, we speak with one voice to build capacity, foster collaboration, and create a strong statewide presence.

The Alliance provides consultation and support in strategic planning, board governance, executive transition, collaborations and risk mitigation. We also advocate for public policy priorities, develop statewide initiatives, and secure resources to address pressing community needs such as chronic disease prevention, child safety and education. Guided by the Y’s core values—caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility—we work to ensure that every individual has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive.

No one is turned away due to inability to pay, and we strive to eliminate barriers so all people can access life‑changing programs and services.

• Advance Mission Impact Across Ys
  • Strengthen organizational capacity through effective board leadership, executive development and operational excellence.
• Develop and Empower Leaders
  • Build a strong leadership pipeline through staff development, training programs and peer learning networks.
• Ensure Safety and Operational Standards
  • Champion child safety, aquatic safety and compliance to uphold trust and deliver high‑quality experiences.
• Drive Strategic Planning and Innovation
  • Guide Ys in long‑term planning, strategic interventions and alignment with the Thriving Y framework to foster growth and sustainability.
• Lead Advocacy and Public Policy
  • Influence state and national policy to advance the Y’s mission and amplify community impact.

The AL – MS Alliance of YMCAs strengthens communities through collaborative programs and services that make a measurable difference across both states. Community impact can be seen here: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./

• Strategic planning and board development guidance
• Advocacy and legislative priorities
• Statewide program initiatives for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility
• Building organizational capacity and peer‑to‑peer learning
• Securing public and private funding opportunities

CEO & Executive Director

Training Champion

Number of Governing Board Members: 7

CEO Summit Task Force

Public Policy Committee

Current Annual Budget Size: $285,000

Alliance Website

YMCA of the USA

• Bachelor’s degree required, advanced degree preferred
• Minimum of 5‑7 years of experience leading in a multi‑site or…