Program Director 1 - Teen Department

Description

SUMMARY OF POSITION:

Under the general supervision of the Executive Director - Teen Programming, the Program Director 1 for the Teen Department supports the Y’s mission by managing and delivering high-quality teen programs, specifically Y Achievers and Teen Nights. These programs are grant-funded and philanthropic in nature, focusing on career exploration, academic enrichment, leadership development, and safe social spaces for teens. This is an entry-level management position responsible for program coordination, staff supervision, relationship building, and ensuring compliance with grant and funding requirements.

The YMCA of Memphis & the Mid-South is a fast-growing, responsive organization. We believe in developing people and teams to create impact through teen programs rooted in excellence and continuous improvement. 

PURPOSE OF POSITION:

This role is ideal for a passionate youth development professional looking to grow into nonprofit leadership. The Program Director 1 ensures the successful operation of Y Achievers and Teen Nights by managing program logistics, leading part-time staff, and supporting strategic outcomes tied to grant funding. An additional focus of this position is to work intensely in communities to build quality programs.  This role works closely with the Executive Director and philanthropic partners to deliver meaningful experiences that reflect the YMCA’s values of youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Oversee day-to-day implementation of the Y Achievers programs, ensuring safe, engaging, and mission-aligned experiences for teens.
• Supervise and coach full time & part-time staff to deliver high-quality programming and maintain a strong culture of youth engagement and development.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders including school staff, community partners, law enforcement, and volunteers to ensure Teen Nights & Y Achievers are responsive to teen interests and aligned with safety and inclusion goals
• Build and coordinate logistics such as transportation, facilities, supplies, scheduling, and registration.
• Monitor and track program attendance, outcomes, and participant feedback to ensure alignment with grant requirements and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with the Executive Director to recruit teens, promote programs, and engage families and donors.
• Ensure compliance with YMCA safety and behavior policies, and uphold all risk management standards.
• Assist with special events, community outreach, and marketing related to Y Achievers, Teen Nights and community events.
• Attend trainings, planning meetings, and professional development activities as needed.
• Grant Management & Reporting: Monitor grant deliverables, maintain accurate records and documentation, and support the preparation of mid-year and end-of-year reports for funders. Ensure that programs operate in alignment with philanthropic goals and funding expectations.
• Collaborates with senior leadership to maintain program excellence and identify areas for growth or improvement.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

YMCA LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES:

Mission Advancement: Reinforces the Y’s values within the organization and the community. Effectively communicates the benefits and impact of the Y’s efforts for all stakeholders.  

Collaboration: Builds and nurtures strategic relationships to enhance support for the Y. Serves as a community leader building collaborations based on trust and credibility to advance the Y’s mission and goals. Communicates for influence to attain buy-in and support of goals. Provides tools and resources for the development of others.

Operational Effectiveness: Integrates multiple thinking processes to make decisions. Involves staff at all levels in the development of programs and activities. Ensures execution of plans. Institutes sound accounting procedures and financial controls. Assigns clear accountability and ensures continuous improvement.

Personal Growth: Fosters a learning environment embracing diverse abilities and approaches. Creates a sense of urgency and positive tension to support change. 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. 

Behavioral Characteristics: Welcoming, Nurturing, Determined, Hopeful, and Genuine.

QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• Bachelor’s degree in education, social work, nonprofit management, or a related field preferred; equivalent combination of education and relevant experience considered.