Inkinen is assisting YMCA of Honolulu with their search for a President & Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION
The YMCA is one of the nation’s largest and most trusted nonprofit movements, advancing youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility in 2,650 YMCAs serving 10,000 communities across the United States. Guided by the mission “to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all,” the Y engages millions of youth and adults annually and is anchored by core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
Established in 1869, the YMCA of Honolulu has grown alongside our community to become one of Hawaiʻi’s largest nonprofit organizations, delivering hundreds of programs for keiki, teens, families, and kūpuna that strengthen belonging, well‑being, and resilience. With strong presence across Oʻahu, the YMCA of Honolulu operates nine strategically located branches, including the Altherton Y, Central Y Residences, Kaimuki-Waiʻalae Y, Kalihi Y, Leeward Y, Mililani West Oahu Y, Nuʻuanu Y, Waiʻanae Coast Y, and Windward Y. In addition, the YMCA manages child care and afterschool programs in 59 locations through partnerships with local organizations. The Association’s work reflects local needs and values and is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors partnering with professional staff to deliver impact across Oʻahu.
The YMCA of Honolulu’s historic Nuʻuanu Branch, long a cornerstone of the Pali corridor, is entering an exciting new chapter, reimagined to serve the evolving needs of the community for generations to come. Driven by transformational support, including a $5 million leadership gift from The Clarence T.C. Ching Foundation and a $3 million contribution from the David C. Ai Charitable Trust, early plans envision a dynamic, multi-story facility that integrates affordable housing, modern health and wellness spaces, early learning, and intergenerational programming. Designed to foster partnerships and deepen community impact, the reimagined Nuʻuanu Y will extend its reach far beyond its walls. While planning and community engagement continue to move forward, the current site remains open and active, continuing to serve members with the spirit and values that have defined the Y for decades.
ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY
The President and Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) of the YMCA of Honolulu is responsible for establishing and implementing the organization’s mission, vision, values, and strategic goals in close partnership with the Board of Directors. As the YMCA’s top executive, the CEO leads with purpose and direction to ensure that the Y remains a trusted, inclusive, and impactful community resource.
This role provides overall leadership for the organization’s success and sustainability, including oversight of its strategic direction, financial health, staff development, community partnerships, government relations, philanthropy, and operational excellence. The CEO is also responsible for fostering innovative youth and family programs, growing membership, and expanding participation in both YMCA-led and government-supported services.
Reporting directly to the volunteer Board of Directors, the CEO oversees the senior leadership team and collaborates across departments and with external stakeholders to ensure mission alignment and community responsiveness.
The ideal candidate will be a values-based leader who inspires others to engage with the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, responsibility, and diversity, and who brings a passion for empowering people and strengthening communities through inclusive and visionary leadership.
Key Responsibilities:
- Visionary Leadership: Shapes and communicates a bold vision, balances big-picture strategy with execution, and fosters innovation and growth. May identify the need for an operational partner to ensure priorities are carried out.
- Board Leadership: Serves as the executive officer to the Board, ensuring strong governance, policy implementation, and Board engagement aligned with mission and strategy.
- Ambassador & Fundraising: Acts as the chief spokesperson, elevating visibility, cultivating partnerships, engaging donors, and leading fundraising efforts to support sustainability.
- Operations & Programs: Oversees programs and operations to meet community needs, staying connected to diverse voices and fostering inclusive, mission-driven service.
- Strategic Planning: Leads the creation and execution of the strategic plan, driving organizational growth, impact, and sustainability.
- Community Partnerships: Builds relationships with schools, nonprofits, businesses, and agencies to expand awareness, trust, and regional impact.
- Advocacy: Engages government leaders and influencers, representing the organization in advocacy efforts and within broader state, regional, and national networks.
- Resource Development: Secures and stewards resources for operations, capital projects, and innovation, ensuring financial stability and leadership continuity.
- Financial Oversight: Oversees budgets, policies, and long-term fiscal planning to ensure responsible stewardship and sustainability.
- Risk Management: Leads enterprise risk management, prioritizing child safety, compliance, and organizational protection.
- Innovation & Change: Monitors trends, embraces new ideas and technologies, and guides the organization through growth and change.
- Engagement & Representation: Maintains visibility in community and national events, securing certifications and advancing organizational alignment with standards.
- Mission-Driven Programs: Translates mission and strategy into impactful programs, fostering collaboration, communication, and staff development.
- Administrative Management: Delegates effectively, establishes strong systems, and ensures operational efficiency and accountability.
- Real Estate Oversight: Provides leadership on property planning, development, and management, aligning assets with mission and future growth.
Annual Salary Range: $300,000 – $350,000
HOW TO APPLY
Please submit the following, addressed to YMCA of Honolulu Search Committee, c/o Inkinen Executive Search, via email to executives@inkinen.com by November 2, 2025:
- Cover Letter – expressing the reason for your interest in YMCA of Honolulu, and how your skills and experience match the President & CEO role.
- Resume