Aquatics Director

Position Summary

The Aquatic Director is responsible for the strategic leadership, daily operations, safety, and financial performance of the Aquatics Department. This position ensures the delivery of high-quality, inclusive aquatic programs aligned with the YWCA White Plains & Central Westchester mission to eliminate racism and empower women.

The role requires a balance of administrative leadership and direct service delivery, ensuring strong program execution, staff performance, and community engagement.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Program Leadership & Development

• Direct and oversee all aquatic programs, including:
• Learn-to-Swim (group and private lessons)
• Water fitness programs
• Youth and community-based aquatic programs
• Summer camp aquatics programming
• Develop, implement, and evaluate programs to meet participation and revenue goals
• Manage pool scheduling to maximize utilization while maintaining safety standards
• Ensure instructional quality consistent with American Red Cross or equivalent standards
• Collaborate closely with the Middies Swim Team Director to coordinate scheduling, shared pool space, and team development
• Maintain active engagement in program delivery, dedicating approximately 50% of work time to direct service (instruction, lifeguarding, WSI)

2. Pool Operations & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and regulatory aquatic safety standards
• Oversee pool maintenance, water quality, and inspections in partnership with facilities staff
• Develop and enforce emergency action and risk management procedures
• Monitor incident reporting and implement corrective actions as needed

3. Staff Supervision & Human Resources Management

• Recruit, hire, onboard, and supervise aquatic staff, including lifeguards and instructors
• Develop staff schedules ensuring adequate coverage during all operating hours
• Ensure all certifications remain current and compliant
• Conduct performance evaluations, coaching, and corrective action when necessary
• Facilitate ongoing training and professional development

4. Financial Management

• Develop and manage annual aquatic department budget
• Monitor revenue streams (programs, private lessons, rentals) and control expenses
• Track performance against revenue and participation targets
• Identify opportunities for program growth and earned income

5. Community Engagement & Membership Experience

• Build partnerships with schools, community organizations, and local stakeholders
• Promote aquatics programming to increase engagement and retention
• Support membership growth and satisfaction
• Represent the YWCA in community initiatives and events

Performance Metrics (Key Performance Indicators – KPIs):

Program Delivery & Engagement:

• 50% of time dedicated to direct service delivery (instruction/lifeguarding/WSI)
• Achievement of program enrollment and participation goals
• Improvement in participant retention rates
• Successful implementation of summer camp aquatics programming

Safety & Compliance:

• Full compliance with all safety and regulatory requirements
• Zero preventable safety incidents; timely reporting of all incidents
• 100% staff certification compliance
• Completion of required drills and safety trainings

Staff Management:

• Maintenance of full staffing levels and coverage
• Staff retention and engagement
• Completion of performance evaluations and training plans
• Compliance with staff-to-participant ratios

Financial Performance:

• Adherence to approved budget
• Achievement of revenue targets
• Increased pool utilization rates
• Cost control and efficient resource allocation

Collaboration & Engagement:

• Effective coordination with Middies Swim Team Director
• Positive member satisfaction and feedback scores
• Growth in community partnerships
• Contribution to overall membership retention