Senior Aquatics Director

The Senior Aquatics Director is responsible for providing leadership, oversight, and strategic direction for all aquatic’s programs and operations for the Republic Bank Foundation YMCA. This position manages a team of 20–25 lifeguards, 3-5 swim instructors, as well as the Aquatics Program Director, ensuring safe, high-quality, and mission-driven aquatics experiences for members and participants. The Senior Aquatics Director oversees pool operations and programming, including water quality, chemical balance, and facility safety standards, while maintaining compliance with all regulatory requirements. They are responsible for providing quality swim lesson programming and running the Safety Around Water program for the association. They are accountable for staff recruitment, training, supervision, and performance management, fostering a culture of safety, excellence, and professional development. In collaboration with YMCA leadership, the Senior Aquatics Director develops and expands innovative aquatics programming, manages budgets, and ensures operational efficiency. This role plays a key part in advancing the YMCA’s commitment to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility through exceptional aquatics services.

• Bachelor’s Degree or commensurate work experience in aquatics and/or recreation preferred 
• Current Lifeguarding Certification, which includes First Aid, CPR professional level, and Emergency Oxygen Administration 
• Current YMCA Swim Lesson Instructor Certification, which includes First Aid, CPR professional level, and Emergency Oxygen Administration
• Strong organizational skills and ability to navigate multiple technology platforms 
• Strong communication skills with multiple generations 
• CPO (Certified Pool Operator) certification, provided by the YMCA of Greater Louisville 
• YMCA Lifeguard Instructor Training and Swim Lesson Instructor Trainer certification, provided by the YMCA of Greater Louisville, within first 60 days

• Uphold the mission of the YMCA, and demonstrate behaviors that reflect a determined, nurturing, genuine, hopeful, and welcoming nature. 
• Develop relationships that have a positive impact in our community 
• Ensures excellent member service and meet Association standards 
• Actively participate as part of the Republic Bank Foundation YMCA Leadership Team 
• Recruit, hire and retain lifeguard’s year round 
• Train, lead and supervise part-time instructor staff of approximately 20 lifeguards and 5 swim instructors
• Perform the required risk management tasks to include: safety audits and drills, in-services, staff observations, chemical and pump room operations and general pool maintenance 
• Manages and monitors department budget with a focus on lifeguard and swim instructor salaries and pool maintenance. 
• Maintain Lifeguard certification records and prepare reports regarding compliance with all state and county regulations 
• Continue to serve the community with growth of Aquatics programs 
• Provides leadership and support to the annual fundraising campaign, including volunteer recruitment and development 
• Participates in Association Aquatics cabinet to ensure consistency and quality in their department 

EFFECT ON END RESULT: 

Successful performance in this position results in vibrant and safe services utilized to deliver the YMCA mission as well as member service. Participants will encounter staff and programs that will allow the development of human potential and build good health and promote positive self-esteem and safety. Behaviors of staff and volunteers will reflect the characteristics of welcoming, nurturing, genuine, determined, and hopeful.