YMCA of Memphis & The Mid-South Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

YMCA of Memphis & The Mid-South has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, human resources, and philanthropy.

Driven by a commitment to community well-being, YMCA of Memphis & The Mid-South strengthens individuals, families, and communities through comprehensive health, education, and development programs, fostering social responsibility and personal growth across the Mid-South region.

Leadership Roles at YMCA of Memphis & The Mid-South

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Stephen Shives
  • Chief Financial Officer - Terrance Grigsby
  • Chief Financial Officer (INT) - Christopher Leopold
  • Chief Operating Officer, Membership - Suzanne Nation
  • Chief Operating Officer, Membership & Philanthropy - Cleo Griffin
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Telky Murphy
  • Stephen Shives - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Stephen Shives, the President & Chief Executive Officer at YMCA of Memphis & The Mid-South, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution for the nonprofit community organization. Shives guides the expansion of health and wellness programs, youth development initiatives, and vital community support services across the Mid-South region. This leadership role involves fostering partnerships and ensuring the organization effectively addresses community needs through its diverse offerings, including childcare, camps, and workforce development. By championing the YMCA's mission, Stephen Shives drives initiatives that promote healthy living, social responsibility, and personal growth, solidifying the organization's impact on individuals, families, and the broader community. The President & Chief Executive Officer ensures robust financial health and sustainable growth, aligning all departments with the overarching goals of community strengthening and individual empowerment.
    Stephen Shives

    Terrance Grigsby - Chief Financial Officer

    Terrance Grigsby, the Chief Financial Officer at YMCA of Memphis & The Mid-South, oversees all financial operations and fiscal strategy for the nonprofit organization. Grigsby manages budgeting, financial planning, and reporting, ensuring the fiscal integrity and sustainability of health and wellness programs, youth development initiatives, and community support services. This critical role involves optimizing resource allocation to maximize the impact of childcare, camps, sports, and workforce development programs across the Mid-South region. The Chief Financial Officer works closely with other executive leaders to align financial objectives with the organization's mission of strengthening individuals, families, and communities. Terrance Grigsby's financial oversight is essential for maintaining operational efficiency and supporting the long-term growth and effectiveness of all YMCA initiatives, ensuring responsible stewardship of donor contributions and program revenues.

    Christopher Leopold - Chief Financial Officer (INT)

    Christopher Leopold, the Chief Financial Officer (INT) at YMCA of Memphis & The Mid-South, manages international financial operations and strategic fiscal planning. Leopold oversees the financial integrity of global initiatives and ensures compliance with international financial regulations, supporting the organization's broader mission of community strengthening. This role involves optimizing financial resources for cross-border programs and partnerships, contributing to the expansion of health and wellness, youth development, and educational services. The Chief Financial Officer (INT) collaborates with domestic finance teams to ensure cohesive financial management and reporting across all operational spheres. Christopher Leopold's expertise in international finance is vital for sustaining and growing the YMCA's impact beyond regional borders, reinforcing its commitment to social responsibility and personal growth worldwide.

    Suzanne Nation - Chief Operating Officer, Membership

    Suzanne Nation, the Chief Operating Officer, Membership at YMCA of Memphis & The Mid-South, directs the operational strategies for membership services and engagement across the region. Nation focuses on enhancing the member experience and driving growth in participation for health and wellness programs, childcare, and sports activities. This leadership position involves optimizing the delivery of services that promote healthy living and personal growth, ensuring accessibility and quality across all facilities. The Chief Operating Officer, Membership collaborates with other departments to integrate membership goals with broader community support initiatives and youth development. Suzanne Nation's operational expertise is key to maintaining high standards in member satisfaction and retention, directly contributing to the organization's ability to serve individuals, families, and communities effectively throughout the Mid-South.

    Cleo Griffin - Chief Operating Officer, Membership & Philanthropy

    Cleo Griffin, the Chief Operating Officer, Membership & Philanthropy at YMCA of Memphis & The Mid-South, leads integrated strategies for both member engagement and fundraising efforts. Griffin oversees the operational execution of programs designed to strengthen individuals, families, and communities, ensuring seamless delivery of health and wellness services, youth development initiatives, and workforce education. This dual-focused role involves maximizing membership growth while simultaneously cultivating philanthropic support essential for expanding childcare, camps, and community outreach. The Chief Operating Officer, Membership & Philanthropy works to align operational efficiencies with fundraising objectives, driving the organization's mission forward across the Mid-South region. Cleo Griffin's leadership ensures that both membership and philanthropic arms function cohesively to support the YMCA's commitment to social responsibility and personal growth.

    Telky Murphy - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Telky Murphy, the Chief Human Resources Officer at YMCA of Memphis & The Mid-South, directs all human capital strategies and organizational development initiatives. Murphy is responsible for talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation, benefits, and fostering a positive workplace culture that supports the organization's mission. This role is crucial for attracting and retaining skilled professionals who deliver vital health and wellness programs, youth development initiatives, and community support services. The Chief Human Resources Officer ensures compliance with labor laws and implements best practices in HR management to support the effective operation of childcare, camps, and workforce development programs. Telky Murphy's leadership in human resources strengthens the organization's capacity to serve individuals, families, and communities across the Mid-South region by building a dedicated and high-performing team.
    Telky Murphy

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding YMCA of Memphis & The Mid-South Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads YMCA of Memphis & The Mid-South?
    YMCA of Memphis & The Mid-South is led by Stephen Shives (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Terrance Grigsby (Chief Financial Officer) and Christopher Leopold (Chief Financial Officer (INT)).
    Who is part of YMCA of Memphis & The Mid-South’s executive team?
    The executive team of YMCA of Memphis & The Mid-South includes leaders such as Stephen Shives (President & Chief Executive Officer), Terrance Grigsby (Chief Financial Officer), Christopher Leopold (Chief Financial Officer (INT)) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does YMCA of Memphis & The Mid-South have?
    YMCA of Memphis & The Mid-South has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in YMCA of Memphis & The Mid-South’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of YMCA of Memphis & The Mid-South includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Financial Officer (INT), Chief Operating Officer, Membership, Chief Operating Officer, Membership & Philanthropy.