Director of Group Exercise & Wellness Floor Operations

The Director of Group Exercise & Wellness Floor Operations plays a key leadership role in advancing the YMCA of Montclair’s mission to strengthen community through healthy living. This position is responsible for the strategic planning, daily operations, and quality of both Group Exercise programming and Wellness Floor experiences.

The primary focus of this role is ensuring that every member receives a positive, personalized, and welcoming experience—one that fosters engagement, satisfaction, and long‑term retention. The Director leads, coaches, and inspires staff teams to deliver consistent, high‑quality service and exceptional interactions that reflect the Y’s culture and values.

• Passion and enthusiasm, to include successful deliverables related to developing and exceeding member expectations within class format.
• Service: Exceptional customer service skills, with experience to include genuine enthusiasm for serving members.
• Nationally recognized certifications in Group Exercise and to include specialty formats as required by certifying entity.
• Degree in health, nutrition, exercise science or equivalent a bonus, with a minimum of two years successful experience in the Health and Wellness fields in a Group Exercise Role.
• Physically and mentally able to respond to emergencies and administer CPR effectively.
• Must be willing to obtain YMCA certifications.
• Two to three years’ experience working with varied ages in a wellness environment.
• Must have a CPR/AED and First Aid Certification OR get certified within 90 days of employment.
• Creative and inspiring program development.
• Proven ability to lead staff and volunteers.
• Ability to work under occasional stressful conditions and to work irregular hours.
• Ability to work independently.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication.
• Proven team player.
• Ability to interpret, adopt, and apply guidelines/procedures.

Wellness Floor Operations

• Develop and implement comprehensive operating plans, including clear Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), to ensure a seamless and positive member experience.
• Provide hands‑on, visible leadership to staff to promote a consistently welcoming, attentive, and member‑centric environment.
• Create and manage the annual budget, including staffing, program expenses, and member engagement initiatives; monitor performance and take corrective action as needed.
• Build and maintain effective communication with Wellness Floor staff and members, addressing needs and feedback promptly and professionally.
• Ensure staff maintain all required certifications and comply with training standards.
• Uphold safety protocols and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Coordinate member engagement events, wellness challenges, and incentive programs that enhance community connection and retention.
• Support the YMCA’s annual fundraising campaign and serve on committees/boards as assigned.
• Develop partnerships and maintain positive relationships with community organizations to strengthen the Y’s impact.

Group Exercise 

• Develop a dynamic and inclusive Group Exercise schedule that meets the diverse needs, interests, and fitness levels of the membership.
• Identify and implement industry trends, innovative formats, and “pop‑up” specialty programs to enhance member engagement.
• Recruit, hire, train, and mentor Group Exercise instructors who are capable of delivering energetic, safe, and engaging classes.
• Monitor program performance and provide data‑driven reports, including attendance, utilization, cost per participant, and financial performance.
• Ensure that all classes adhere to safety protocols, YMCA standards, and best practices in exercise instruction.
• Foster a positive, team‑oriented culture among instructors, emphasizing professionalism, enthusiasm, and exceptional member connection.

Risk & Compliance Responsibilities

• Implement and uphold all YMCA policies related to safety, risk reduction, and abuse prevention.
• Provide ongoing supervision, training, and feedback to ensure staff maintain clear boundaries and follow established procedures.
• Respond promptly and confidentially to concerns or policy violations and follow required reporting protocols.

• Emotional Maturity
• Communication
• Critical Thinking and Decision Making

Must be willing to obtain YMCA certifications.