Chief operations officer Jobs in Birmingham, AL

Job Description

The Opportunity :

The AL-MS Alliance of YMCAs is seeking a visionary leader to guide a dynamic network of 22 YMCA Associations united under one mission : strengthening communities across two states. The Alliance serves as a powerful voice for youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, amplifying impact through collaboration, advocacy, and innovation.

This is more than a leadership role—it is an opportunity to shape the future of a multi-state movement. The CEO will champion strategies that unite local Ys, elevate their collective influence, and position the Alliance as a trusted partner in public policy and community well-being. By forging partnerships with policymakers, funders, and community leaders, this leader will expand access to programs that change lives—from chronic disease prevention and childcare to water safety and youth development.

The individual who steps into this role will serve as the Alliance’s chief ambassador, mobilizing resources, cultivating relationships, and inspiring collaboration across diverse communities. For a leader who thrives on vision, advocacy, and impact, this is a rare chance to strengthen the Y’s presence and ensure that Ys across Alabama and Mississippi thrive for generations to come.

About the YMCA :

The Y is one of the nation’s leading nonprofits that strengthens communities through the impact areas of Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility. Every day, the Ys work side-by-side with their neighbors to make sure that everyone, regardless of age, income or background has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive.

About the AL – MS Alliance of YMCAs

The AL-MS Alliance of YMCAs unites 22 YMCA Associations—15 in Alabama and 7 in Mississippi—to strengthen communities and advance the Y’s mission of youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Together, we speak with one voice to build capacity, foster collaboration, and create a strong statewide presence. The Alliance provides consultation and support in strategic planning, board governance, executive transition, collaborations, and risk mitigation. We also advocate for public policy priorities, develop statewide initiatives, and secure resources to address pressing community needs such as chronic disease prevention, child safety, and education. Guided by the Y’s core values—caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility—we work to ensure that every individual has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. No one is turned away due to inability to pay, and we strive to eliminate barriers so all people can access life-changing programs and services.

Current Key Strategic Priorities :

• Advance Mission Impact Across Ys
• Strengthen organizational capacity through effective board leadership, executive development, and operational excellence.
• Develop and Empower Leaders
• Build a strong leadership pipeline through staff development, training programs, and peer learning networks.
• Ensure Safety and Operational Standards
• Champion child safety, aquatic safety, and compliance to uphold trust and deliver high-quality experiences.
• Drive Strategic Planning and Innovation
• Guide Ys in long-term planning, strategic interventions, and alignment with the Thriving Y framework to foster growth and sustainability.
• Lead Advocacy and Public Policy
• Influence state and national policy to advance the Y’s mission and amplify community impact.

Community Impact Highlights

The Al – MS Alliance of YMCAs strengthens communities through collaborative programs and services that make a measurable difference across both states. Community impact can be seen here :

The Alliance provides consulting services to YMCAs :

Alliance Staff :

CEO & Executive Director

Training Champion

Alliance Board of Directors :

Number of Governing Board Members : 7

Task Forces

CEO Summit Task Force

Committees :

Public Policy Committee

Financial :

Current Annual Budget Size : $285,000

Information Sites : Qualifications

Criteria for Candidates :

Essential Functions

Key Skills and Abilities of Our Next CEO :

The board believes its new CEO should be an experienced leader who has the background and qualities that will permit him or her to achieve excellence in the following roles :

Lead and Inspire the Alliance

Advance Advocacy and Public Policy

Strengthening Local YMCAs

Build Partnerships and Steward Resources

Salary Range : $120,000 - $160,000 annually

Benefits :

Residency Expectation :

The successful candidate will establish residency in either Alabama or Mississippi within a reasonable time after hire.

Search Process Target Dates :

References, Background Check, Employment Verification and Organizational Leader Certification :

Candidates must submit (pdf format only) the following in their online application : a resume, cover letter. Applications submitted without a cover letter will not be considered.

Candidates who advance to final interviews will need to submit six references (four professional and two personal). References checked only with prior notification. A successful candidate accepting the offer must pass a background check, provide valid identification for employment eligibility verification, possess a valid driver’s license, a clean driving record and access to reliable transportation. Candidate must have a current Y-USA’s Organizational Leader Certification or obtain certification within the first three years from start date as the CEO. The YMCA of the Triangle’s personnel policies may require further screening.

Candidates must apply via the following website :

Questions?

Contact Shea Boschee, CEO Search Consultant, YMCA of the USA,