Wellness Director

YMC; Buffalo (NY); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

YMC in Buffalo, NY, seeks a Wellness Director to oversee the wellness center and group exercise programs. You will lead program development, supervise staff, and foster member relationships to promote health and wellness in the YMCA and community.

Regularly engage on the wellness floor, provide fitness instruction, conduct orientations, and drive member satisfaction while ensuring safety and compliance with Youth Protection Policies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of two years of supervisory experience in wellness programming or related areas.
• Certifications: AFAA, ACE, ACSM, or NSCA.
• CPR/AED certification from recognized bodies.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the wellness center and group exercise programs; meet enrollment targets.
• Direct service to members: instruction, coaching, and wellness services.
• Develop a comprehensive wellness program menu and operating schedule.
• Plan and manage health fairs and monthly wellness seminars.

Skills

leadership

communication

analytical

budget management

program development

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Wellness Director is responsible for overseeing the successful operation of the YMCA wellness center and group exercise programs. This role includes program development, staff management, and fostering relationships that promote health and wellness within the YMCA and the community. The Wellness Director is expected to spend substantial time working directly with members and participants, leading programs, providing fitness and wellness instruction, conducting orientations and assessments, coaching staff, and building relationships with the people the YMCA serves. The Wellness Director should be regularly present on the wellness floor and actively engaged in the member experience.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Program Development and Management

• Oversee the daily operations of the wellness center and group exercise programs, ensuring high-quality member experiences and meeting/exceeding program enrollment targets.
• Maintain a consistent schedule of direct service to members and participants, devoted to direct program delivery, member engagement, instruction, coaching, and wellness services.
• Develop and implement a comprehensive wellness program menu and operating schedule designed to attract and retain members.
• Plan and manage health fairs and coordinate monthly wellness seminars to engage members and the community.

Staff Leadership and Development

• Recruit, hire, train, schedule and supervise employees and volunteers, ensuring high-quality service to our members and a motivated and high-performing team.
• Conduct regular performance evaluations, maintain accurate records of staff certifications, and provide leadership development and training opportunities.

Budget and Resource Management

• Develop, manage, and monitor budgets related to wellness programs, ensuring fiscal accountability and alignment with YMCA objectives.
• Maintain clean, well-organized program areas and ensure adequate supplies and equipment to meet member needs.

Community Engagement and Promotion

• Develop and nurtures relationships with community organizations and agencies to support program growth and outreach.
• Represent and promote the YMCA at community events, meetings, and conferences related to wellness and health initiatives.

Program Evaluation and Feedback

• Monitor and evaluate program quality and effectiveness, incorporating member feedback to improve offerings and overall satisfaction.

Safety and Compliance

• Ensure compliance with YMCA policies, state and local health regulations, and safety standards.
• Oversee equipment maintenance and wellness floor layout to ensure a safe and functional environment.
• Monitor daily operations, enforce cleaning and disinfecting protocols, and ensure compliance with PPE requirements.
• Actively ensure the safety and well-being of all children by adhering to YMCA Buffalo Niagara's Youth Protection Policies. Recognize, respond to, and immediately report any suspected abuse, policy violations, or safety concerns.

Marketing and Communication

• Implement marketing plans and coordinate the distribution of wellness program information to maximize visibility and participation.

Additional Responsibilities

• Serve as a member of the YMCA management team, supporting overall organizational goals and objectives.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in a related field or an equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• Minimum of two years of supervisory experience in wellness programming or related areas.

Certifications:

• AFAA, ACE, ACSM, or NSCA certification required.
• CPR/AED certification from the American Red Cross, American Heart Association, or American Safety & Health Institute (ASHI).

Skills and Knowledge:

• Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and manage diverse teams.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, both written and verbal.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in budget management and program evaluation.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

This position requires working in a fitness center within a full-facility YMCA. Evening, weekend, and holiday availability may be required to support programming and respond to emergencies.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.

• Perform all physical aspects of the position, including bending, stooping, kneeling, twisting, sitting, reaching with hands, grasping, standing, walking, running, lifting up to 50 pounds, pushing, pulling, and having visual acuity.
• Remain alert at all times to ensure participant safety.
• Respond quickly and effectively to emergency situations.
• Regularly travel to program sites.