Health & Wellness Operational Lead

YMCA of Three Rivers; Stratford; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A community health organization in Stratford is seeking a Health & Wellness Operational Lead to oversee daily operations and foster team development. This role requires 5–10 years of leadership experience, accountability for member engagement and operational effectiveness, and a commitment to inclusion and safeguarding. The successful candidate will build strong relationships and shape exceptional experiences for members and staff. Competitive salary of $60,000 – $70,000 and a comprehensive benefits package are offered.

Benefits

Comprehensive health benefits

Pension plan

YMCA family membership

3 weeks vacation

12 well-being days

Qualifications

• 5–10+ years of leadership experience required.
• Ability to develop and manage budgets essential.
• Experience in leading diverse teams preferred.

Responsibilities

• Build high-performing teams through development and coaching.
• Shape member experiences with operational excellence.
• Lead and manage change in a dynamic environment.

Skills

Leadership experience

Relationship building

Budget management

Health and Wellness expertise

Job description

Health & Wellness Operational Lead – Stratford YMCA

Location: Stratford YMCA, Stratford‑Perth

Work Hours: 37.5 hours per week

Employment Type: Full Time, Permanent

Vacancies: 1

Start Date: March 2, 2026

Application Deadline: February 20, 2026

Annual Salary: $60,000 – $70,000
Total Rewards Package: Comprehensive health, dental and well‑being benefits focused on work‑life harmony. Includes 3 weeks vacation, 12 well‑being days, group pension plan, health, dental, vision, employee assistance program, YMCA family membership, and discounts.

Role Overview

The YMCA of Three Rivers is a charitable organization serving the Guelph‑Wellington, Stratford‑Perth and Waterloo Region communities. Our mission is to make diverse communities healthier and more vibrant. This operational lead reports to the VP of Health and Wellness and is fully on‑site, responsible for all aspects of daily branch operations, creating an engaging, welcoming, high‑performing environment for members and staff.

Responsibilities

• Build and maintain strong relationships to lead and develop high‑performing teams.
• Lead departmental supervisors, providing coaching, development and performance support.
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• Shape exceptional member and staff experiences through thoughtful service design and operational excellence, including implementing and monitoring the Y Way program.
• Use data to inform decisions and be accountable for member and staff Insights survey results.
• Foster a positive and inclusive culture that drives member and staff engagement and retention.
• Collaborate as one team with colleagues across Health and Wellness and other YMCA departments, building strong relationships, contributing to shared decision‑making, and supporting unified service delivery.
• Innovate and evolve programming in response to emerging trends and community needs.
• Apply high‑level judgment and critical thinking to navigate complex, multi‑layered operational, staff and member challenges, consulting appropriate thought partners as needed.
• Lead and manage change effectively, supporting staff and members through a continually evolving environment.
• Embed Justice, Access, Inclusion, Diversity and Equity (JAIDE) principles into everyday practices and leadership.
• Champion compliance connected to Health & Safety, Emergency Readiness and Safeguarding standards.
• Maintain strong communication and collaboration with the VP, Manager of Program Quality and Engagement and Manager of Growth and Sustainability.
• Attend off‑site meetings and support trainings as required.

Qualifications

• 5–10+ years of leadership experience.
• Experience developing, overseeing and managing a budget and budget process.
• Experience leading multiple teams or a progression of diverse teams over time (asset).
• expertise within the Health and Wellness industry highly preferred.
• A proven ability to build strong, trust‑based relationships with a wide range of stakeholders.

Regular travel across the region is required; a valid G driver’s licence and full‑time vehicle access are strongly recommended.

Commitments to Inclusion and Safeguarding

The YMCA is committed to safeguarding children and youth, ensuring Vulnerable Sector Checks are completed and renewed every three years. We embrace JAIDE values, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds. Accommodation will be provided throughout the hiring process to meet candidate needs.

Privacy and Contact3>

The YMCA of Three Rivers complies with privacy laws and protects personal information. Only candidates being considered for the position will be contacted. For additional career opportunities, visit the YMCA of Three Rivers Career Page.