DeKalb Health
Executive Director of Governance (Project Management)
Board leadership is the YMCA’s most impactful adult leadership program. Each week, across America, tens of thousands of inspired community do‑gooders make their way to the door of their local YMCA with hearts full of passion, ready to positively influence their community. They have carved out time in their busy day to prioritize their role as a YMCA program volunteer, serving on a Branch Board or the organizational Board of Trustees. The Y is their vehicle for meaningful community impact.
Board Leadership is an incredible Adult Leadership Program. Y programs, if they are to be meaningful and sustaining, need a Program Director. Who is the organizational program director of our most popular Adult Leadership Program?
Yes, there are Branch Executives and a CEO. But often the challenge of running a complex human service organization leaves little bandwidth for strategic board development, committee structure and working out the organizational details requisite of this program.
Meet the Executive Director of Governance.
Are you an executive leader with board building experience who loves working with volunteers at a high level? Do you have the industriousness of a program director with the influence savvy of an Executive? Do you know how to scale programs as well as network and leverage complex communities?
If this is you, read on.
The Executive Director of Governance is a new position in our YMCA. Its constituency covers the 200 policy and advisory board members spread over 8 boards in our YMCA. In close partnership with 7 Branch Executive Directors and reporting to the CEO, the Executive Director of Governance will focus exclusively on governance. All the things you learned about at Volunteerism 101, but never seem to find the time to get to, when you’re responsible for a full‑time bricks and mortar operation: complex meeting schedules, charts of work, committee structure, the role of volunteer leadership, identifying the right community stakeholders to match the unique needs of each Y branch; coordinating all those one‑on‑one meetings with community leaders and partnering with Branch Executives to ensure the post‑meeting actions and follow‑ups don’t fall through the cracks.
We are serious about governance at the YMCA of Snohomish County.
This is a Y that has doubled in size since 2020 (through COVID); $23MM in 2020, 2026 budget $48MM.
We take expansion seriously. In less than four years we went from concept to execution of our first ever overnight camp. We call it YMCA Camp Casey.
We opened a brand new licensed ELC in 2025 and are in the process of opening another in 2026.
We are serious about developing leaders at every life stage. Watch this brief video about our program continuum.
We are a beloved and well‑connected YMCA with a direct relationship through members, program participants, donors and volunteers, with 1:6 individuals who call Snohomish County home.
Everything we do is in service to building future changemakers; for us this includes adult changemakers as well.
Come Be Part of Something Bigger in the Heart of the Pacific Northwest!
Snohomish County, WA is a community that embodies well‑being, connection, and a spirit of adventure. From the serene waters of the Puget Sound to the breathtaking Cascade Mountains, Snohomish County is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream offering hiking, skiing, fishing, and year‑round exploration. The greater Seattle area comes alive in the summer and fall, and there’s no better place to experience the vibrant arts, food, and culture of the Pacific Northwest.
Everett, Washington boasts its own award‑winning regional airport in Paine Field and is only 45 minutes drive from SEATAC.
The YMCA of Snohomish County is a thriving $48 million and growing association, driven by over 1,000 dedicated leaders who serve through six full‑facility branches, 28 school‑age care sites, early learning centers, preschools, and a new overnight camp on Puget Sound. Together, we’re committed to removing barriers and creating opportunities for everyone in our community.
We are seeking a dynamic, cause‑driven leader, passionate about strengthening community. The ideal candidate is a relationship builder, skilled in fundraising, volunteer and staff leadership, business strategy, and community engagement. They will thrive in leading high‑performing teams and will be deeply committed to advancing the Y’s mission and impact in Snohomish County and beyond.
If you’re ready to make a difference and embrace all that this incredible region has to offer, apply today!
The deadline to apply to this job is December 10, 2025. Resumes will be reviewed ongoing as received.
Position Summary The Executive Director of Governance holds subject matter expertise in organizational governance. It is critical that the organization has strong governance and community impact. We do this with the integral advisory support of our Board of Trustees, Executive Committee, eight branch boards and their committees. This executive is a trusted advisor and partner to the CEO, ensuring that the board’s development activities, community connections, and organizational initiatives are well integrated, strategically aligned, and effectively advanced.
Reporting directly to the President/CEO, this position also works in close collaboration with the CEO’s Senior Leadership Team to align board engagement and strategic initiatives with the organization’s day‑to‑day business challenges, current projects and our programs with the company’s long‑term growth, fundraising and impact goals.
Our Mission and Culture Our mission is to inspire, nurture and strengthen culturally vibrant communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. We exhibit our values of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility. Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: We are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: We value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: We believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: We support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: Above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger, beginning with you.
Qualifications
Bachelors degree in Business Administration or equivalent experience required; such as YMCA branch executive director and/or advanced degree in nonprofit management, business administration, public administration, or related field preferred
Minimum of three years experience in assisting a CEO
Minimum 710 years of progressive leadership experience in nonprofit governance, board relations, community engagement or executive‑level strategy
Demonstrated experience working with Boards of Directors/Trustees and senior executives
Strong strategic thinking, facilitation, and relationship‑building skills
Embody sensitivity, working with individuals of diverse socio‑economic backgrounds, cognitive and physical abilities as well as individuals of diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds
Fluency in English and second language, preferred
Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills; ability to interact with individuals at all levels, including positive interaction with staff and community leaders; able to lead teams
High degree of discretion, judgment, and confidentiality
A self‑starter with a self‑motivating attitude
Works independently, has excellent organizational, time‑management and decision‑making skills, and the flexibility to manage and change priorities as required - must meet absolute deadlines
Proficient in Microsoft Office, Word, Excel and Power Point
YUSA Team Leader or Multi‑Team or Branch Leader Certification, preferred
Transportation to and from locations meetings, trainings, etc.
Position Profile / Ideal Characteristics
Dynamic individual with strategic, visionary approach to work and problem‑solving
Collaborative personality
Maintain confidential information and proper discretion
Analytical, organized, driven by attaining results
Comfortable with public speaking
Emotionally mature, able to initiate, conduct and navigate difficult conversations with individuals at all levels
Essential Functions
Organizational Governance : Responsible for partnering with the President/CEO in organizing and supporting the stewardship of Board of Trustees governance structure, Branch Board leadership and Strategic Planning
Leads the development and implementation of comprehensive board engagement strategies for the Board of Trustees and branch boards
Serves as a trusted thinking partner with the President/CEO. Keep 30/60/90/120‑day lead calendar over Board of Trustee functions including: Meetings, Socials and Events
Maintains and anticipates annual calendars for all board and Executive Committee meetings; prepares and distributes agendas, materials and minutes
Plans, coordinates and facilitates Board Leadership Academy, along with Board Chair, providing sessions to enhance governance effectiveness and mission alignment
Tracks and reports on board and community member engagement, including volunteer hours, committee participation, and philanthropic activity
Maintains all necessary databases/files to manage board activity including calendaring and digital communication
Executes or delegates for execution all administrative functions of the office of the President/CEO including recruiting necessary organizational resources to accomplish key functions
Partners closely with Marketing/Communication and Office of Financial Development to ensure Trustees and stakeholders are communicated with frequently about the current state and strategic direction of the organization
Executive Collaboration & Strategic Alignment
Partner with the President/CEO to identify and prioritize key issues, projects, and initiatives for board and executive‑level discussion
Work closely with executive leadership/senior vice presidents (COO, CFO, CDO, CHRO and SVP of Island County and Camp Services), to connect ongoing initiatives and business challenges and needs with board development opportunities
Provide the President/CEO with regular briefings on board and community engagement trends, issues, and opportunities
Community Engagement & Fundraising Support
Serve as a strategic connector between the organization and community leaders, stakeholders, and partners
Identify and cultivate community relationships that support organizational growth and fundraising opportunities
Coordinate community meetings and engagements for the President/CEO and ensure timely follow‑up and relationship management
Organizational Leadership & Support
Serve as a key advisor to the President/CEO on governance best practices and organizational alignment
Ensure that all board‑related activities are aligned with the organization’s mission, vision, values, and strategic priorities
Develop and manage systems to track engagement, measure outcomes, and improve board effectiveness
Co‑leads the Volunteerism Advancement Team along with the Association Office Director of Family/Volunteer Advancement
Core Competencies
Strategic Connector: Skilled at linking people, projects, and priorities to maximize impact
Governance Expertise: Deep understanding of nonprofit board development, governance, and leadership
Executive Presence: Ability to partner effectively with executive leadership and community leaders
Organizational Agility: Anticipates needs, aligns resources, and ensures execution against strategic goals
Mission‑Driven Leadership: Passion for advancing the mission and enhancing organizational growth through board and community engagement
Cause‑Driven Leadership Competencies
Community: Ensures community engagement; promotes the global nature of the Y.
Influence: Is recognized as an inspirational community leader who navigates complex political and social circles with ease
Relationships: Initiates the development of relationships with influential leaders to impact and strengthen the community
Project Management: Creates a culture to deliver organization‑wide results to achieve objectives
Change Capacity: Effectively drives change by leveraging resources and creating alignment to expand organizational opportunities
Quality Results: Determines benchmarks and ensures appropriate leadership to meet objectives
Y Culture
Build relationships with a diverse membership base in culturally responsive ways, connect members with one another and to the YMCA
Exhibit Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility
Complete required training and certifications within established guidelines
Embrace Team Leader Core Competencies
Developing Self & Others
Change Leadership
Critical Thinking & Decision Making
Program/Project Management
Mission Advancement
Models and teaches the Y’s values
Ensures a high level of service with a commitment to improving lives
Provides volunteers with orientation, training, development, and recognition
Cultivates relationships to support fundraising
Collaboration
Champions inclusion activities, strategies, and initiatives
Builds relationships to create small communities
Empathetically listens and communicates for understanding when negotiating and dealing with conflict
Effectively tailors communications to the appropriate audience
Provides staff with feedback, coaching, guidance and support
Operational Effectiveness
Provides others with frameworks for making decisions
Conducts prototypes to support the launching of programs and activities
Develops plans and manages best practices through engagement of team
Effectively creates and manages budgets
Holds staff accountable for high‑quality results using a formal process to measure progress
Personal Growth
Shares new insights
Facilitates change; models adaptability and an awareness of the impact of change
Utilizes non‑threatening methods to address sensitive issues and inappropriate behavior or performance
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
Physical and Mental Demands Physical demands: While performing the duties of this job, employees are regularly required to sit, walk and stand; talk or hear, both in person and by telephone; use hands repetitively handle, feel or operate standard office equipment; reach with hands and arms; and lift up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision and the ability to adjust focus.
Mental demands: While performing the duties of this job, employees are regularly required to use written and oral communication skills; read and interpret data, information and documents; analyze and solve non‑routine and complex problems; may use math and mathematical reasoning; observe and interpret situations; learn and apply new information or skills; perform highly detailed work on multiple, concurrent tasks; work under intensive deadlines with frequent interruptions; and interact with members, staff, volunteers, and others encountered in the course of work, some of whom may be dissatisfied individuals.
Working Conditions: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Typically, interaction with others is busy, constant and occasionally interruptive. Work may be demanding at times. May require ability to work irregular hours. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Job descriptions represent a general outline of job duties, functions and qualifications. They are not intended to be comprehensive in nature. In addition, jobs evolve over time and therefore their description may not reflect the precise nature of the position at a given point in time.
Our Commitment to Inclusion The Y is made up of people of all ages and from every walk of life, working side by side to strengthen communities. Together we work to ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, age, cultural background, ethnicity, faith, gender, gender identity, ideology, income, national origin, race or sexual orientation, has the opportunity to reach their full potential with dignity. Our core values are caring, honesty, respect and responsibility they guide everything we do.
The YMCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer that celebrates diversity at all levels of our organization.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Board Leadership is an incredible Adult Leadership Program. Y programs, if they are to be meaningful and sustaining, need a Program Director. Who is the organizational program director of our most popular Adult Leadership Program?
Yes, there are Branch Executives and a CEO. But often the challenge of running a complex human service organization leaves little bandwidth for strategic board development, committee structure and working out the organizational details requisite of this program.
Meet the Executive Director of Governance.
Are you an executive leader with board building experience who loves working with volunteers at a high level? Do you have the industriousness of a program director with the influence savvy of an Executive? Do you know how to scale programs as well as network and leverage complex communities?
If this is you, read on.
The Executive Director of Governance is a new position in our YMCA. Its constituency covers the 200 policy and advisory board members spread over 8 boards in our YMCA. In close partnership with 7 Branch Executive Directors and reporting to the CEO, the Executive Director of Governance will focus exclusively on governance. All the things you learned about at Volunteerism 101, but never seem to find the time to get to, when you’re responsible for a full‑time bricks and mortar operation: complex meeting schedules, charts of work, committee structure, the role of volunteer leadership, identifying the right community stakeholders to match the unique needs of each Y branch; coordinating all those one‑on‑one meetings with community leaders and partnering with Branch Executives to ensure the post‑meeting actions and follow‑ups don’t fall through the cracks.
We are serious about governance at the YMCA of Snohomish County.
This is a Y that has doubled in size since 2020 (through COVID); $23MM in 2020, 2026 budget $48MM.
We take expansion seriously. In less than four years we went from concept to execution of our first ever overnight camp. We call it YMCA Camp Casey.
We opened a brand new licensed ELC in 2025 and are in the process of opening another in 2026.
We are serious about developing leaders at every life stage. Watch this brief video about our program continuum.
We are a beloved and well‑connected YMCA with a direct relationship through members, program participants, donors and volunteers, with 1:6 individuals who call Snohomish County home.
Everything we do is in service to building future changemakers; for us this includes adult changemakers as well.
Come Be Part of Something Bigger in the Heart of the Pacific Northwest!
Snohomish County, WA is a community that embodies well‑being, connection, and a spirit of adventure. From the serene waters of the Puget Sound to the breathtaking Cascade Mountains, Snohomish County is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream offering hiking, skiing, fishing, and year‑round exploration. The greater Seattle area comes alive in the summer and fall, and there’s no better place to experience the vibrant arts, food, and culture of the Pacific Northwest.
Everett, Washington boasts its own award‑winning regional airport in Paine Field and is only 45 minutes drive from SEATAC.
The YMCA of Snohomish County is a thriving $48 million and growing association, driven by over 1,000 dedicated leaders who serve through six full‑facility branches, 28 school‑age care sites, early learning centers, preschools, and a new overnight camp on Puget Sound. Together, we’re committed to removing barriers and creating opportunities for everyone in our community.
We are seeking a dynamic, cause‑driven leader, passionate about strengthening community. The ideal candidate is a relationship builder, skilled in fundraising, volunteer and staff leadership, business strategy, and community engagement. They will thrive in leading high‑performing teams and will be deeply committed to advancing the Y’s mission and impact in Snohomish County and beyond.
If you’re ready to make a difference and embrace all that this incredible region has to offer, apply today!
The deadline to apply to this job is December 10, 2025. Resumes will be reviewed ongoing as received.
Position Summary The Executive Director of Governance holds subject matter expertise in organizational governance. It is critical that the organization has strong governance and community impact. We do this with the integral advisory support of our Board of Trustees, Executive Committee, eight branch boards and their committees. This executive is a trusted advisor and partner to the CEO, ensuring that the board’s development activities, community connections, and organizational initiatives are well integrated, strategically aligned, and effectively advanced.
Reporting directly to the President/CEO, this position also works in close collaboration with the CEO’s Senior Leadership Team to align board engagement and strategic initiatives with the organization’s day‑to‑day business challenges, current projects and our programs with the company’s long‑term growth, fundraising and impact goals.
Our Mission and Culture Our mission is to inspire, nurture and strengthen culturally vibrant communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. We exhibit our values of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility. Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: We are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: We value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: We believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: We support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: Above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger, beginning with you.
Qualifications
Bachelors degree in Business Administration or equivalent experience required; such as YMCA branch executive director and/or advanced degree in nonprofit management, business administration, public administration, or related field preferred
Minimum of three years experience in assisting a CEO
Minimum 710 years of progressive leadership experience in nonprofit governance, board relations, community engagement or executive‑level strategy
Demonstrated experience working with Boards of Directors/Trustees and senior executives
Strong strategic thinking, facilitation, and relationship‑building skills
Embody sensitivity, working with individuals of diverse socio‑economic backgrounds, cognitive and physical abilities as well as individuals of diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds
Fluency in English and second language, preferred
Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills; ability to interact with individuals at all levels, including positive interaction with staff and community leaders; able to lead teams
High degree of discretion, judgment, and confidentiality
A self‑starter with a self‑motivating attitude
Works independently, has excellent organizational, time‑management and decision‑making skills, and the flexibility to manage and change priorities as required - must meet absolute deadlines
Proficient in Microsoft Office, Word, Excel and Power Point
YUSA Team Leader or Multi‑Team or Branch Leader Certification, preferred
Transportation to and from locations meetings, trainings, etc.
Position Profile / Ideal Characteristics
Dynamic individual with strategic, visionary approach to work and problem‑solving
Collaborative personality
Maintain confidential information and proper discretion
Analytical, organized, driven by attaining results
Comfortable with public speaking
Emotionally mature, able to initiate, conduct and navigate difficult conversations with individuals at all levels
Essential Functions
Organizational Governance : Responsible for partnering with the President/CEO in organizing and supporting the stewardship of Board of Trustees governance structure, Branch Board leadership and Strategic Planning
Leads the development and implementation of comprehensive board engagement strategies for the Board of Trustees and branch boards
Serves as a trusted thinking partner with the President/CEO. Keep 30/60/90/120‑day lead calendar over Board of Trustee functions including: Meetings, Socials and Events
Maintains and anticipates annual calendars for all board and Executive Committee meetings; prepares and distributes agendas, materials and minutes
Plans, coordinates and facilitates Board Leadership Academy, along with Board Chair, providing sessions to enhance governance effectiveness and mission alignment
Tracks and reports on board and community member engagement, including volunteer hours, committee participation, and philanthropic activity
Maintains all necessary databases/files to manage board activity including calendaring and digital communication
Executes or delegates for execution all administrative functions of the office of the President/CEO including recruiting necessary organizational resources to accomplish key functions
Partners closely with Marketing/Communication and Office of Financial Development to ensure Trustees and stakeholders are communicated with frequently about the current state and strategic direction of the organization
Executive Collaboration & Strategic Alignment
Partner with the President/CEO to identify and prioritize key issues, projects, and initiatives for board and executive‑level discussion
Work closely with executive leadership/senior vice presidents (COO, CFO, CDO, CHRO and SVP of Island County and Camp Services), to connect ongoing initiatives and business challenges and needs with board development opportunities
Provide the President/CEO with regular briefings on board and community engagement trends, issues, and opportunities
Community Engagement & Fundraising Support
Serve as a strategic connector between the organization and community leaders, stakeholders, and partners
Identify and cultivate community relationships that support organizational growth and fundraising opportunities
Coordinate community meetings and engagements for the President/CEO and ensure timely follow‑up and relationship management
Organizational Leadership & Support
Serve as a key advisor to the President/CEO on governance best practices and organizational alignment
Ensure that all board‑related activities are aligned with the organization’s mission, vision, values, and strategic priorities
Develop and manage systems to track engagement, measure outcomes, and improve board effectiveness
Co‑leads the Volunteerism Advancement Team along with the Association Office Director of Family/Volunteer Advancement
Core Competencies
Strategic Connector: Skilled at linking people, projects, and priorities to maximize impact
Governance Expertise: Deep understanding of nonprofit board development, governance, and leadership
Executive Presence: Ability to partner effectively with executive leadership and community leaders
Organizational Agility: Anticipates needs, aligns resources, and ensures execution against strategic goals
Mission‑Driven Leadership: Passion for advancing the mission and enhancing organizational growth through board and community engagement
Cause‑Driven Leadership Competencies
Community: Ensures community engagement; promotes the global nature of the Y.
Influence: Is recognized as an inspirational community leader who navigates complex political and social circles with ease
Relationships: Initiates the development of relationships with influential leaders to impact and strengthen the community
Project Management: Creates a culture to deliver organization‑wide results to achieve objectives
Change Capacity: Effectively drives change by leveraging resources and creating alignment to expand organizational opportunities
Quality Results: Determines benchmarks and ensures appropriate leadership to meet objectives
Y Culture
Build relationships with a diverse membership base in culturally responsive ways, connect members with one another and to the YMCA
Exhibit Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility
Complete required training and certifications within established guidelines
Embrace Team Leader Core Competencies
Developing Self & Others
Change Leadership
Critical Thinking & Decision Making
Program/Project Management
Mission Advancement
Models and teaches the Y’s values
Ensures a high level of service with a commitment to improving lives
Provides volunteers with orientation, training, development, and recognition
Cultivates relationships to support fundraising
Collaboration
Champions inclusion activities, strategies, and initiatives
Builds relationships to create small communities
Empathetically listens and communicates for understanding when negotiating and dealing with conflict
Effectively tailors communications to the appropriate audience
Provides staff with feedback, coaching, guidance and support
Operational Effectiveness
Provides others with frameworks for making decisions
Conducts prototypes to support the launching of programs and activities
Develops plans and manages best practices through engagement of team
Effectively creates and manages budgets
Holds staff accountable for high‑quality results using a formal process to measure progress
Personal Growth
Shares new insights
Facilitates change; models adaptability and an awareness of the impact of change
Utilizes non‑threatening methods to address sensitive issues and inappropriate behavior or performance
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
Physical and Mental Demands Physical demands: While performing the duties of this job, employees are regularly required to sit, walk and stand; talk or hear, both in person and by telephone; use hands repetitively handle, feel or operate standard office equipment; reach with hands and arms; and lift up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision and the ability to adjust focus.
Mental demands: While performing the duties of this job, employees are regularly required to use written and oral communication skills; read and interpret data, information and documents; analyze and solve non‑routine and complex problems; may use math and mathematical reasoning; observe and interpret situations; learn and apply new information or skills; perform highly detailed work on multiple, concurrent tasks; work under intensive deadlines with frequent interruptions; and interact with members, staff, volunteers, and others encountered in the course of work, some of whom may be dissatisfied individuals.
Working Conditions: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Typically, interaction with others is busy, constant and occasionally interruptive. Work may be demanding at times. May require ability to work irregular hours. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Job descriptions represent a general outline of job duties, functions and qualifications. They are not intended to be comprehensive in nature. In addition, jobs evolve over time and therefore their description may not reflect the precise nature of the position at a given point in time.
Our Commitment to Inclusion The Y is made up of people of all ages and from every walk of life, working side by side to strengthen communities. Together we work to ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, age, cultural background, ethnicity, faith, gender, gender identity, ideology, income, national origin, race or sexual orientation, has the opportunity to reach their full potential with dignity. Our core values are caring, honesty, respect and responsibility they guide everything we do.
The YMCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer that celebrates diversity at all levels of our organization.
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