This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The Health and Wellness Director leads the YMCA’s Healthy Living programs, including the Wellness Center, group exercise, personal training, small group training, events, and wellness initiatives for all ages. This role provides leadership and supervision for staff and volunteers, ensures programs are safe, inclusive, and member-focused. The Director is also responsible for member engagement and retention strategies, financial management of the department, and pursuing grants and revenue opportunities to sustain and grow impact. Through innovation, collaboration, and relationship-building, the Health and Wellness Director advances the YMCA’s mission to strengthen community health and promote lifelong wellness.
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Leads the design and delivery of high-quality, innovative, and member-focused healthy living programs that align with the YMCA’s mission and strategic goals.
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Sustain and grow cornerstone program offerings such as group exercise classes, personal training, and small group training while developing new programs to meet emerging community needs.
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Recruits, hires, trains, supervises, evaluates, and develops volunteers and departmental staff, including group exercise instructors, personal trainers, wellness coaches, and other assigned employees. Builds a strong team culture through coaching, mentorship, regular staff meetings, and professional development opportunities.
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Establishes clear goals for program enrollment, attendance, participation, and retention, and motivates staff to achieve results that support member engagement and program growth.
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Monitors and evaluates program performance through data, member feedback, and outcome measures; uses results to improve quality and effectiveness
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Oversees new member onboarding with other senior leaders—including fitness orientations, wellness assessments, and goal setting—to ensure a supportive member experience that fosters retention.
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Plans and executes wellness seminars, challenges, workshops, and large-scale wellness events such as races and triathlons. Collaborates with colleagues to support YMCA-wide events and fundraisers.
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Creates community partnerships and relationships, including expanding corporate and off-site wellness opportunities in collaboration with the leadership team to increase community impact and revenue generation.
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Develops and manages the department budget, monitors monthly performance, and ensures revenue and expense targets are met.
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Pursues grants and other funding opportunities to grow healthy living programs in alignment with YMCA strategic priorities.
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Assists with marketing and communication of programs to maximize visibility and participation.
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Ensures fitness spaces are clean, safe, and well-maintained; oversees preventive maintenance, equipment repair, and compliance with YMCA standards, local regulations, and safety protocols.
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Collaborates with colleagues to design inclusive wellness programs for Active Older Adults, youth, families, and other special populations.
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Coordinates with colleges, universities, and schools to develop and maintain a robust internship program.
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Teaches or substitutes in wellness classes and programs as needed.
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Educates staff, volunteers, and members about the charitable nature of the YMCA and actively supports the YMCA of Ithaca and Tompkins County Annual Campaign.
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Performs other duties as assigned.