FOOTHILLS AREA YMCAJob Title: Sports Director DOLStatus: Full TimeFLSA Status: ExemptDate Prepared: 04/27/2026Reports to: Executive Director of Health & WellnessExecutive Department: Youth Development / Healthy LivingPOSITION SUMMARY:The Sports Director provides dynamic leadership and strategic direction for all youth and adult sports programs, and leagues at the Foothills Area YMCA. This role is responsible for expanding access to high-quality, mission-driven programs that strengthen our community and promote youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.The Sports Director leads the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of sports programming while building strong community partnerships, cultivating a high-performing team, and ensuring programs are accessible, impactful, and sustainable.OUR CULTURE: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.ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:Provide leadership and oversight for all youth and adult sports leagues, clinics, and campsEnsure programs are safe, inclusive, high-quality, and aligned with YMCA standards and missionDevelop, implement, and evaluate programs to meet evolving community needsOversee scheduling, facility usage, and program logisticsMaintain equipment and facilities to ensure safety and readinessExpand program offerings to increase access and participation across all populationsEvaluate participation trends and community needs to guide program developmentEnsure programs remain affordable and accessible while maintaining qualityCollaborate with membership and marketing to increase awareness and engagementRecruit, hire, train, schedule, and supervise staff, coaches, and volunteersFoster a positive, inclusive, and mission-driven team cultureEnsure all staff meet certification and training requirementsProvide ongoing coaching and development opportunitiesCreate a welcoming, inclusive, and positive experience for all participants and familiesPromote YMCA character values: caring, honesty, respect, and responsibilityAddress concerns promptly and professionallyBuild a strong sense of community within programsBuild and maintain relationships with schools and community organizationsIdentify partnerships that expand program access and community reachRepresent the YMCA through outreach events and community involvementDevelop and manage program budgets to ensure responsible use of resourcesMonitor program performance, participation, and cost effectivenessEnsure accurate program setup, registration, and reporting using DaxkoSupport fundraising efforts and community initiatives as neededEnsure all programs follow YMCA policies and safety standardsMaintain accurate incident reports and ensure timely follow-upImplement emergency procedures and risk management practicesEnsure all staff meet background screening and certification requirementsLEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES:Functional ExpertiseCommunication & InfluenceCritical Thinking & Decision MakingProgram/Project ManagementCollaborationMission AdvancementOperational EffectivenessSUPERVISORS AND ADMINISTRATORS WILL:Follow employees and volunteers screening requirements and use screening instruments to screen for abuse risk.Provide employees and volunteers with on-going supervision and training related to abuse risk managementEnsure there is a positive culture for responding and reporting for employees and volunteersProvide employees and volunteers with regular feedback regarding their boundaries with youth.Require employees and volunteers to adhere to policies and procedures related to abuse risk and prevention.Respond quickly to policy and procedure violations using the YMCA’s progressive discipline policy.Respond seriously and confidentially to reports of suspicious and inappropriate behaviors.Follow mandated reporting requirements.Communicate to all employees and volunteers the YMCA’s commitment to zero tolerance of abuse to youth. Report essential abuse risk management information to the board of directors.SUPERVISORS AND ADMINISTRATORS WILL:Adhere to screening requirements for Minor Employees and use screening instruments designed to assess for abuse risk.Communicate to all Minor Employees the YMCA’s commitment to protect their youth from abuse.Provide Minor Employees with ongoing supervision and training related to abuse risk.Provide Minor Employees with regular feedback regarding their boundaries with youth.Require Minor Employees to adhere to policies/procedures related to abuse risk.Respond quickly to policy and procedure violations using the YMCA’s progressive discipline policy.Respond seriously and confidentially to reports of suspicious and inappropriate behaviors.Follow mandated reporting requirements.QUALIFICATIONS:Minimum age of 21Bachelor’s degree in Sports Management, Recreation, Business, or related field (preferred)2–3 years of experience in sports programming, recreation management, or related fieldPrior leadership or supervisory experience strongly preferredExperience with program growth, revenue generation, and community engagementStrong leadership, organizational, and communication skillsAbility to build relationships with diverse populationsSelf-motivated, adaptable, and results-drivenProficiency in Microsoft Office and program management softwareWORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:Ability to work in indoor and outdoor environments year-roundAbility to stand, walk, and actively engage for extended periodsAbility to lift up to 50 poundsAbility to demonstrate and lead sports activitiesWillingness to work evenings and weekends as needed.
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SPORTS DIRECTOR
Foothills Area YMCA, Buffalo, NY, United States