Key Performance Objectives
Fiscal Management
Ensuring sound fiscal management within the organization including the design, implementation, promotion and organization of systems and infrastructure to maximize revenue, reduce expenses, create efficiencies and increase productivity. Use high-level financial analysis to forecast financial trends, growth and stability, while consistently leading organization to balance operations by growing earned revenue and contributions and controlling costs.
Improve Operating Performance
Driving a long-term strategy for the organization, supported by a viable, sustainable business model, that is consistent with the vision of the Board and capacities of the organization. Establish Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that inform the management and progress to meeting the budget and community needs and manage and direct the Y’s operations, real estate, and programs.
Build and Lead Staff
Fostering a culture of talent and commitment to further the goals of the organization while maintaining financial discipline. Ensure a talent development system is in place and executed in affirming, culturally competent and effectively. Hire, motivate, nurture, retain, and hold staff accountable for key objectives.
Steward Fundraising Efforts
Leadership of a high-performing development capability that leverages the broad reach of the organization to maximize fundraising capabilities that support the mission. Develop and implement an annual fundraising plan that will establish the YMCA as a leading nonprofit organization within the community through the engagement of members, corporations, partners, volunteers, and staff. Take the organization to a new level of effectiveness and impact in annual giving and endowment.
Key Deliverables in the first 6 months to 1 year:
- Build a next generation and comprehensive people strategy relative to recruiting, onboarding, training and corporate culture.
- Deliver a comprehensive real estate strategy for existing facilities and programs.
- Evaluate and revisit KPIs for program effectiveness and sustainability.
- Develop a plan to increase external contributions, including quarterly engagement of key donors and partners.
- Deliver an updated sustainability plan for 2026 budget by October 2025.
About the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago
For more than 166 years, the YMCA of Metro Chicago has continually evolved to meet the needs of our communities. Our agility and willingness to embrace change are our superpowers — they’re what uniquely position us to design and deliver high-impact solutions, and support people in evolution. We are creating a significant impact for individuals and families through our role as a community hub.
- 15 Multi-Service Community Hubs across greater Chicagoland
- 5 Overnight Camps set among picturesque vistas in Illinois, Wisconsin & Michigan
- 13 Early Learning Centers (9 are Head Start & Early Head Start sites in Chicago)
- More than 100 extension program sites across the Chicagoland area
- A leading direct service provider in the areas of health and fitness, sports, aquatics, early education and care, youth and teen enrichment, overnight camps, workforce development, housing, food security, and more.
Our Impact
- Supports more than 300,000 individuals each year across the region
- $575,635 provided in financial assistance for individuals and families to access Y services
- 96,930 unique individuals supported in achieving their health and wellness goals
- 7,538 children and adults provided swim lessons
- 4,440 individuals benefitted from Y sports programs
- 397 children provided early care and education at Y Early Learning Centers
- 7,108 youth engaged in dynamic after-school and summer enrichment programs
- 3,379 youth benefitted from outdoor experiences at Y overnight camps
- 64 adults and 115 youth participated in Y workforce development programs
- More than 6,600 individuals were provided access to internet and digital skills support and training through Y Tech Hubs and bilingual digital helpdesk.
Our History
- The YMCA has a long history of leading innovation across sports, recreation, athletics, and culture.
- The first ever group swimming lesson was held at a YMCA
- Both basketball and volleyball were invented — yes, invented — at the YMCA
- The precursor to Black History Month was started at the YMCA of Chicago
- The event that would eventually be known at the Bank of America Chicago Marathon was founded at the Metropolitan YMCA — now the YMCA of Metro Chicago
- Father’s Day was established at a YMCA
To learn more visit YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago
Staff: When anyone walks through the doors of the YMCA of Metro Chicago, we want them to feel like they belong. Creating an environment and an atmosphere that welcomes anyone is one of our top priorities, and we extend that desire to our employees and our company culture as well. At the Y, we are committed to fostering a culture that reflects our community — a rich, diverse, and inclusive environment for all.
Employee Breakdown
- Full time: 500
- Part time:1,511
- Seasonal: 750 (May- September)
Board of Directors: 40 board members
Financial Snapshot: 2025 Budget $80M
Compensation: We offer a competitive salary and benefits package.
Residency Expectation: The CEO is expected to be highly engaged and visible in our community. Living in the YMCA’s service area is expected.
Target Dates for the search process
Resumes accepted through: March 31, 2025
Preliminary interviews scheduled: Week of April 7th
Final interviews: Weeks of April 21 and 28
New CEO on board (anticipated): May 2025
To Apply
Candidates will submit their applications to: ceosearch@ymcachicago.org
Application, References, Background Check, and Organizational Leader Certification:
Candidates must submit an upload a PDF of your cover letter, resume and responses to the two questions listed below. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered.
1. Please tell us about the culture of an organization you have led and what tools you have deployed to shape it.
2. Share how you have driven significant change in an organization.
Candidates who advance to final interviews will need to submit six references (four professional and two personal). References checked only with prior notification. Successful candidate accepting the offer must pass a background check and must have a current Y-USA’s Organizational Leader Certification or obtain certification within the first three years from start date as the CEO.
Please submit your cover letter, resume, and responses to the questions at: ceosearch@ymcachicago.org
Questions regarding this position should be directed to: Eden@kadensholdings.com
