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Associate Executive Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Associate Executive Director leads the day-to-day operations for the Outdoor Education Center. Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer (COO), this role provides strategic operational leadership ...

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Associate Executive Director information

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How much do associate executive director jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate executive director in the United States is $25.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Executive Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Executive Director, you need strong leadership, organizational management, and strategic planning skills, often supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in business, nonprofit management, or a related field. Familiarity with budgeting software, CRM systems, and data analysis tools, along with relevant certifications like Certified Association Executive (CAE), is typically required. Exceptional communication, problem-solving, and relationship-building skills help you effectively lead teams and collaborate with stakeholders. These competencies are crucial for driving organizational success, ensuring operational efficiency, and advancing mission-driven goals.

What are some common challenges faced by an Associate Executive Director in managing cross-functional teams?

As an Associate Executive Director, one of the main challenges in managing cross-functional teams is ensuring clear communication and alignment among departments with different priorities. Balancing organizational objectives while addressing the varying needs and perspectives of team members requires strong interpersonal and negotiation skills. Additionally, adapting leadership style to fit diverse teams and resolving conflicts in a timely manner are crucial for maintaining productivity and morale. Regular check-ins, transparent goal-setting, and fostering a collaborative culture can help overcome these challenges.

What are Associate Executive Directors?

Associate Executive Directors are senior leaders who support the Executive Director in managing an organization’s operations, programs, and strategic initiatives. They often oversee specific departments or projects, help implement policies, and ensure the organization's goals are met efficiently. In many cases, they serve as second-in-command and may act on behalf of the Executive Director when needed. Their role requires strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.

What is the difference between Associate Executive Director vs Program Director?

AspectAssociate Executive DirectorProgram Director
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor’s degree; often prefers a master’s in management, nonprofit administration, or related fieldsUsually requires a bachelor’s degree; a master’s degree is a plus but not always required
Work EnvironmentNonprofit organizations, associations, or large institutions; involved in strategic planning and high-level managementProgram-specific settings within nonprofits, government agencies, or corporations; focuses on program development and implementation
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in nonprofit and association sectors; reports to the Executive Director or BoardUsed across various sectors including nonprofits, education, and healthcare; reports to senior management or Executive Director

The Associate Executive Director and Program Director roles share some credentials and work environments but differ mainly in scope. The Associate Executive Director typically handles broader organizational responsibilities, while the Program Director focuses on specific programs. Both roles are vital in nonprofit management but serve different strategic and operational functions.

More about Associate Executive Director jobs
What cities are hiring for Associate Executive Director jobs? Cities with the most Associate Executive Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Executive Director jobs? The most popular types of Executive Director jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Associate Executive Director jobs? The top employers for Associate Executive Director jobs are:
What states have the most Associate Executive Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Associate Executive Director jobs include:
Infographic showing various Associate Executive Director job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,254 per year, or $25.6 per hour.
Associate Executive Director

Associate Executive Director

YMCA of San Francisco

San Francisco, CA • Hybrid

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

CareersbyEmpowering Futures, Building Communities

Imagine going to work each day knowing that your efforts positively impact individuals and communities. Asa globalmovement and thenation's leading nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, the YMCA ofGreaterSan Francisco offers more than just a job-we offer a career with a future and the opportunity to make a lasting difference in your community. At the Y, you can uncover your passion and build a lifelong career addressing some of the nation's most pressing social issues.

OurOrganizationalCulture

At the YMCAof GreaterSan Francisco, we are committed todemonstratingvalues thataimtobuilding strong communities where you canBe,BelongandBecome.WithTruth & Courage, we strive to understand and act on individual and societal truths. We ensure a safe and inclusive environment withAuthenticity & Accessibility, allowing everyone toparticipateaccording to their needs. Our approach isDependable& Creative, as we respond to community needs through strong partnerships.Above all, weembodyDignity & Empathy,treatingeveryone with respect and compassion, andrecognizingthe inherent dignity in all individuals.

Position Summary

The Associate Executive Director serves as a strategic partner to the Senior Executive Director of the Urban Services Branch, the designated Community Action Agency for San Francisco County. This role provides operational leadership for programs focused on family support, case management, public health, workforce development, and basic needsassistance-all designed to expand access to resources, promote well-being, and reduce poverty across diverse communities.

Working as part of a three-person executive team, the Associate Executive Director oversees daily operations and program delivery while contributing to long-term strategic planning. The position requires on-site leadership across branch locations, active participation in community partnerships, and collaboration with volunteers and stakeholders to address systemic barriers and support individual and community well-being.

Job Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Operations

  • Partner with Senior Executive Director to develop and implement strategic plans aligned with organizational mission
  • Lead operational management across assigned program areas to ensure high-quality service delivery
  • Drive organizational effectiveness through continuous improvement of systems and processes
  • Support organizational growth and sustainability initiatives

Leadership & Staff Development

  • Supervise professional staff across multiple program areas
  • Foster a culture of accountability, continuous learning, and high performance
  • Implement effective recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and professional development practices
  • Support career advancement and succession planning for team members

Community Engagement & Partnerships

  • Develop andmaintaincollaborative relationships with community organizations, public agencies, and private sector partners
  • Design community engagement strategies that reflect the strengths, needs, and diversity of populations served
  • Promoteequitableaccess to services across all programs
  • Represent the organization at community meetings and public events

Program Management & Compliance

  • Oversee planning, delivery, and evaluation of direct service programs using evidence-based practices
  • Ensure compliance with regulatory, contractual, and accreditation standards
  • Support data-driven decision-making through program evaluation and outcome tracking
  • Collaborate with staff to develop innovative programming that addresses community priorities
  • Monitor program outcomes to ensure efficacy and compliance with funder requirements

Other Responsibilities

  • Performs all otherduties asassigned by the supervisor.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

  • This role primarilyoperatesin an office setting with regular visits to YMCA branches, program sites, and community locations.
  • In-office and possible remote work based on operational needs at any given time.
  • Regular use ofa computer,phone, and standard office equipment.
  • Occasional lifting of supplies, materials, or equipment up to 25 pounds.
  • Requires prolonged periods of sitting, as well as frequent standing, walking, and reaching.
  • Must be able to travel locally to multiple YMCA locations and external partner sites as needed.
  • May require evening or weekend hours to support onboarding, volunteer engagement, or workforce development events.

Disclaimers

  • Must successfully complete a background screening, including criminal and employment verification. Some positions may also require a credit check.
  • All duties and responsibilities are essential job functions subject to reasonable accommodation. The YMCAof Greater San Franciscopromotes an equal em
  • ployment opportunity workplace, which includes reasonable accommodation for otherwise qualified disabled applicants and employees. Please contact your manager if you have any questions about this policy or these job duties.
  • This job description may not be all-inclusive, and employees are expected to perform other duties as assigned by management. Job descriptions and duties may bemodifiedby management as needed.
  • Job offers are conditional and contingent upon background clearance.Pursuant tothe San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance and CA Fair Chance Act, we will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records for employment.

Salary Description

TheAssociate Executive Directorposition offers a competitive salaryof $110,000-$128,000 annually,based on qualifications and experienceand is aligned with current salary benchmarking standards.

Please submit your resume and application materials by June 1, 2026 to be considered for this role.