Program Manager (FT Permanent)

Overview

The YMCA is a charity that has been helping Canadians improve their lives since the first Y opened in 1851. Y programs are offered at more than 1,700 locations across Canada and help more than 2.25 million people annually become healthier in spirit, mind, and body. The YMCA of the National Capital Region proudly serves people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities, and works to address critical social needs in our community. We are a leader and valued partner in creating a vibrant and healthy community where everyone belongs and can reach their full potential.

This position requires a commitment to the Y mission and core values of excellence, compassion, dignity, accountability and inclusion, which form the foundation of all Y programs and services.

Working for the Y

Are you looking to use your skills and unique gifts to make a real difference in your community? The YMCA of the National Capital Region is a great workplace committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, where different backgrounds, experiences, and identities are appreciated and celebrated. The YMCA provides hundreds of employees with meaningful jobs and the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of individuals and the health of our communities. We recognize the contributions of our staff through innovative practices, great benefits, and growth opportunities. Whether you are starting out in your career or a seasoned professional, you will find many exciting opportunities to achieve your personal and career goals.

Vacancy Status: This job posting is for a new vacancy.

What do we offer?

At the Y, you will be part of a vibrant and diverse network of people whose shared vision is to be a leader, partner and catalyst that empowers individuals, dismantles barriers and transforms communities.

Our competitive wage and benefit package include:

• Free YMCA gym membership;
• Discounted Y program fees (including health & fitness programs, child care, and camps);
• Access to our YMCA Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) including free, immediate, confidential assistance and counselling for you and your family members for mental and physical health, and financial advice, among other 12 suites of services;
• Health and Dental Insurance;
• Long-term Disability and Life Insurance;
• Access to our Canadian YMCA Retirement Fund pension plan;
• Up to 25 vacation days per year including two float days, and one birthday vacation;
• Maternity leave benefits for up to 18 months.

• *Some benefits may vary based on employment terms*

What do you offer?

The Program Manager, YMCA Pre-Apprenticeship Culinary Program is responsible for the overall leadership, implementation, and performance of a new workforce development program designed to prepare participants for careers in the culinary and food service sector.

This role oversees all aspects of program delivery, including recruitment, training, work placements, employer engagement, and participant outcomes. The Manager ensures the program meets funder requirements, achieves employment targets, and delivers a high-quality, participant-centred experience.

As this is a new program, the Manager will play a key role in building the program from the ground up, including supporting hiring, developing processes, and establishing strong partnerships with employers and community stakeholders.

The role requires a balance of operational leadership, strong execution, and the ability to build systems quickly while maintaining high standards of service delivery.

The role also requires oversight of program delivery within a camp-based kitchen environment, ensuring a clear balance between participant learning, safety, and any integration with YMCA camp food service operations.

Some of the tasks of this position include:

• Lead the overall implementation and day-to-day operations of the Culinary Pre-Apprenticeship Program
• Hire, supervise, and support program staff including Lead Chef Instructor, instructors, and Employer Liaison
• Ensure program meets all funder requirements, including performance targets, reporting, and compliance
• Develop and oversee recruitment strategies to meet participant intake targets
• Monitor participant progress, retention, and outcomes, implementing strategies to improve completion and employment rates
• Oversee coordination of training, certifications, and paid work placements
• Build and maintain strong relationships with employers, industry partners, and community organizations
• Establish and lead an Advisory Committee to ensure program relevance and alignment with labour market needs
• Manage program budget, track expenditures, and ensure alignment with funding guidelines
• Work closely with internal YMCA departments (Employment Services, Newcomer Services, Camps, Childcare) to support participant needs
• Ensure high-quality data tracking, reporting, and continuous improvement of program delivery
• Support marketing and outreach efforts to raise awareness and build a strong pipeline of participants and employers
• Identify opportunities to strengthen program sustainability, including potential future social enterprise or revenue-generating activities
• Coordinate with camp and food service teams to align training schedules and kitchen operations while maintaining clear role expectations
• Ensure participant involvement in kitchen activities is structured, supervised, and aligned with training objectives
• Support integration of training with kitchen operations where appropriate, without compromising learning outcomes or program integrity

What qualifications and abilities are we looking for?

At the YMCA of the National Capital Region, we strive to ensure our employees are a fit based on their strengths, interests, and future goals.

The successful candidate will have the following:

Education

• Post-secondary education in business administration, project management, workforce development, hospitality, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience

Language

• Fluent in English, oral and written
• Other languages are an asset

Experience, Skills and Abilities

• Minimum 3–5 years of progressive experience in program management, preferably in employment services, training programs, or workforce development initiatives
• Demonstrated experience managing government-funded programs, including knowledge of compliance, reporting, and performance requirements
• Strong understanding of employment services, labour market trends, and job development strategies
• Knowledge of apprenticeship pathways, Skilled Trades Ontario, and workforce entry requirements is an asset
• Experience working with diverse populations, including newcomers, youth, and individuals facing barriers to employment
• Experience managing and developing staff, including performance management, coaching, and team leadership
• Proven experience managing budgets, financial tracking, and resource allocation within funded programs
• Strong project management skills, including planning, implementation, and monitoring of multiple activities simultaneously
• Knowledge of the culinary, hospitality, or food service sector is considered a strong asset
• Experience building partnerships with employers, community organizations, and stakeholders
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office and data management systems; experience with case management or reporting systems is an asset
• Ability to interpret data and use it to inform program improvements and decision-making

Additional Requirements:

• Applicants must already have a valid permit to work in Canada.
• A Police Record check, not more than 6 months old is required. Police Records checks are reviewed on an individual basis and the offense(s) - if any - is considered in the decision-making process in relation to the requirement of working with children, therefore not eliminating all candidates with a record from being offered a position.
• Semi-annually, staff must complete the mandatory training for the protection of Children & Youth and submit the certificate of completion.

Core Competencies:

• Excellence: Identifies and implements improvements that enhance work quality.
• Compassion: Involves warmth and supportive communication. Fosters understanding and collaboration, leading to a positive work environment.
• Dignity: Involves respecting every individual’s worth, promoting fairness and valuing perspectives. It encourages a culture of integrity, mutual respect, and empowerment.
• Accountability: Manages tasks, projects, and processes effectively.
• Inclusion: Demonstrates self-awareness and commitment to IDEA, ethics, and well-being.

About diversity and inclusiveness at the Y:

Inclusiveness is a part of our core values and we are committed to ensuring the diversity of the people and communities we serve and as well as our staff. We welcome candidates from racialized groups, invisible minorities, Indigenous People, women, persons with disabilities, persons who identify as 2SLGBTQ+.

YMCA of the National Capital Region is committed to accessibility in employment and to ensuring equal access to employment opportunities for candidates, including persons with disabilities. In compliance with AODA, the YMCA will endeavour to provide accommodation to people with disabilities in the recruitment process upon request. If you are selected for an interview and require accommodation due to a disability during the recruitment process, please email peopleandculture@ymcaottawa.ca upon scheduling your interview.

Statement on Use of Artificial Intelligence in Employment Decisions:

At the YMCA, we are committed to maintaining a fair and equitable hiring process. We do not use artificial intelligence (AI) to screen, assess, or select applicants for any positions of employment. All employment decisions are made by our dedicated People and Culture team, ensuring that each candidate is evaluated on an individual basis with the utmost consideration for their unique qualifications and experiences.

How to apply?

All internal applicants must inform their supervisor of their intention to apply for the position.

Thank you for your interest in joining the YMCA of the National Capital Region. We appreciate all applications. Due to the volume of applicants, we are only able to contact those selected for further consideration in the hiring process.

The YMCA of the National Capital Region is committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer.