Executive Assistant to the CEO and Board Liaison

The Executive Assistant to the CEO & Board Liaison is a highly skilled, proactive, and detail-oriented professional who provides comprehensive administrative and strategic support to the Chief Executive Officer of the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago. This role also serves as the primary staff liaison to the Board of Managers and its committees, ensuring effective communication, coordination, and governance processes that advance the mission and priorities of the YMCA.

The Executive Assistant will be a trusted partner to the CEO, a key point of contact for board members, and an organizational culture ambassador who models professionalism, discretion, and excellence.

Pay rate for this position is $75,000-$85,000.00 based on experience and qualifications.

Benefits

Our staff is the Y's greatest asset. Our teams provide valuable skills, knowledge, and passion that is essential to the contribution and positive impact in our communities, which is why we offer Y employees numerous perks and benefits, including:

• Competitive salaries reflecting your skills and experience.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance for eligible employees, plus wellness programs, mental health resources, and a family gym membership.
• Generous PTO and paid holidays, with flexible work hours for work-life balance.
• 403(b) plan with company contributions for eligible employees after 2 years of service.
• Continuous learning opportunities through workshops and training programs.
• Supportive work environment valuing diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Discounts on programs, employee assistance programs, and company-sponsored events.
  
  

Scope Of Responsibilities

Executive Support to the CEO

• Provide high-level administrative support to the CEO, including calendar management, travel arrangements, expense reports, correspondence, and document preparation.
• Manage the flow of information to and from the CEO’s office, ensuring timely communication and follow-up on priorities.
• Draft, proofread, and edit communications, presentations, and reports for internal and external stakeholders.
• Anticipate the needs of the CEO and proactively manage tasks to ensure efficiency and effectiveness.
• Coordinate special projects and cross-departmental initiatives as assigned by the CEO.
  
  

Board of Managers, Board of Trustees, & Committee Liaison

• Serve as the primary staff liaison to the YMCA’s Board of Managers, Board of Trustees, and all board committees.
• Plan, schedule, and coordinate logistics for all board and committee meetings, including drafting agendas, preparing and distributing board packets, and maintaining accurate minutes.
• Ensure compliance with governance requirements, bylaws, and best practices.
• Maintain up-to-date records of board rosters, terms, committee assignments, and attendance.
• Support board recruitment, onboarding, and engagement strategies in partnership with the CEO and senior leadership.
• Coordinate communication between the CEO, board members, and leadership team, ensuring timely responses to inquiries and requests.
  
  

Organizational Coordination

• Partner with senior leadership to ensure alignment between board activities, organizational priorities, and strategic plan execution.
• Manage confidential and sensitive information with discretion.
• Support planning and execution of board-related and organizational events, retreats, and recognition activities.
• Represent the CEO’s office with professionalism when interacting with staff, board members, donors, and external stakeholders.
  
  

Minimum And Preferred Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required, advanced degree or certification in nonprofit management, business administration, or related field preferred.
• Minimum 5–7 years of executive-level administrative support experience, preferably in a large nonprofit or complex organization.
• Strong understanding of nonprofit governance and board relations.
• Exceptional organizational, project management, and multitasking skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities; adept at drafting and editing professional documents.
• Proven ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
• High proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, and board management software (e.g., BoardEffect, Diligent, or similar).
• Ability to work independently, prioritize competing demands, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to foster positive, collaborative relationships with diverse stakeholders.
  
  

Child Abuse Prevention - Supports the YMCA’s commitment to child abuse prevention by:

• Reporting any items that may provide a health or safety hazard to staff, members or guests to your supervisor
• Following all policies and procedures related to keeping children safe in our facilities and programs, including those related to the monitoring and supervision of children
• Reporting any suspicious behavior and violation of policy and procedures to your supervisor
• Completing all child abuse prevention training as required