Description
The Summit Area YMCA is seeking a dynamic and strategic Vice President of Human Resources (VP of HR) to lead all HR functions for our $18 million association, which serves a workforce of 500–600 across multiple branches and programs. This key leadership role is responsible for advancing people strategy, workforce development, and HR operations to ensure the Summit Area YMCA remains an employer and workplace of choice.
As a member of the senior leadership team, the VP of HR reports directly to the President & CEO and partners closely with executive leadership and the Board of Trustees. This role oversees all aspects of HR strategy and execution, including talent acquisition, total rewards, compliance, employee relations, leadership development, culture, and digital innovation in HR systems.
The ideal candidate will bring strong strategic leadership, deep HR expertise, and a passion for advancing a high-performing, inclusive, and mission-driven workplace. This is an opportunity to shape the employee experience and drive organizational excellence at one of New Jersey’s leading nonprofit organizations.
You Might Be the Right Fit If You…
- Are a collaborative, innovative, and data-driven HR leader with a passion for mission-based work.
- Thrive in building systems that support people, culture, and organizational success.
- Embrace technology and change as tools for improving processes and employee experience.
- Believe that HR is a strategic function that enables excellence at every level of the organization.
- Value inclusion and are committed to building an equitable workplace for all.
Key Responsibilities
- Serve as a strategic advisor to the CEO and senior leadership on workforce planning and HR risk management.
- Lead and evolve the organization’s talent development strategy including leadership development, coaching, and succession planning.
- Oversee total rewards including compensation structure, pay equity, benefits, and performance management systems.
- Champion the use of technology and AI to streamline HR operations including recruiting, onboarding, and data analytics.
- Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment regulations; manage HR policies and legal risk.
- Drive inclusion, engagement, and staff recognition efforts that promote a values-based culture.
- Serve as liaison to the HR Committee of the Board of Trustees, supporting policy development and governance.
Salary & Benefits
This full-time, exempt-level position generally works Monday–Friday during standard business hours, with occasional evening or weekend responsibilities. The Salary range for this position is $110,000 – $130,000 annually, based on experience.
The Summit Area YMCA offers a generous benefits package that includes subsidized medical, dental, vision, life, and long-term disability insurance. Paid time off for vacation, wellness, and holidays, Free YMCA family membership, discounts on YMCA programs and services (including childcare), Ongoing professional training and development and a 12% employer contribution to the YMCA retirement plan upon eligibility.
At the Summit Area YMCA, we are committed to equal opportunity employment regardless of gender, age, disability, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or religious affiliation. Our main purpose is to strengthen community. Every day, we work side-by-side with our neighbors to make sure that everyone can reach their full potential and we strive to live our cause with purpose every day. No matter who you are or where you’re from, we believe that we’re stronger when we come together.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business, or related field required; Master’s degree or HR certification (e.g., SHRM-SCP, SPHR) preferred. YMCA Organizational Leader certification a plus.
- Minimum of 10 years of progressive HR experience, with 3–5 years in leadership. Experience in nonprofits or mission-driven organizations preferred.
- Strong knowledge of employment law, HR best practices, YCMA regulations (child safety, aquatics) and talent development frameworks.
- Data-driven, proficiency with HR platforms (e.g., Paycom, Paylocity, etc) and familiarity with AI tools for recruitment and analytics.
- Expertise in HR audits, salary administration, policy development, and compensation plans.
- Mission-driven, innovative, and collaborative, with a passion for recruiting passionate, qualified talent driving results and mitigating risks.
- Strong leadership and communication skills with proven ability to partner with executive leadership on strategy and risk management.
If you are a visionary HR leader who believes in the power of people and community, we want to hear from you.
About the Summit Area YMCA:
We were founded as the Young Men's Christian Association in 1886, but today, we are The Y. Part of a world-class organization, we are one of the area’s leading nonprofits, that values, and is made stronger by, its diverse people. The Summit Area YMCA is committed to strengthening community by connecting all people to their potential, purpose, and each other. Working locally, we focus on empowering young people, improving health and well-being, and inspiring action in and across communities. By bringing together people from different backgrounds, perspectives, and generations, we ensure that we all have access to the opportunities, relationships, and resources necessary to learn, grow and thrive.
