YMCA of Greater Brandywine Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

YMCA of Greater Brandywine has 5 executives leading key functions including organizational strategy, operational management, financial oversight, human resources, and executive leadership.

Dedicated to community enrichment, YMCA of Greater Brandywine fosters healthy living and social responsibility through diverse programs across Chester County, strengthening the region by nurturing potential in children, families, and seniors.

Leadership Roles at YMCA of Greater Brandywine

  • Chief Executive Officer - Joseph Tankle
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Bertram Lawson
  • Chief Financial Officer - Rachel Firkser
  • Chief Operating Officer - Jody Giardina
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Natalia Gallon
  • Joseph Tankle - Chief Executive Officer

    Joseph Tankle, the Chief Executive Officer at YMCA of Greater Brandywine, directs the overarching strategic vision for the association. Tankle manages the alignment of eight distinct facilities with the core mission of promoting healthy living and social responsibility throughout Chester County. By coordinating with the Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that all community-based programs meet the evolving needs of local families and seniors. This leadership role involves driving long-term sustainability initiatives and expanding the reach of youth development services. Through rigorous oversight of organizational goals, Joseph Tankle maintains the integrity of the association's commitment to strengthening the region. The Chief Executive Officer prioritizes the integration of donor resources with operational requirements to maximize community impact. Ultimately, Tankle secures the future of the organization by fostering a culture of inclusivity and service across all regional branches.

    Bertram Lawson - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Bertram Lawson, the President & Chief Executive Officer at YMCA of Greater Brandywine, architects the high-level operational framework for the entire association. Lawson drives the expansion of life-changing programs that nurture the potential of children and adults across Chester County. By engaging with community stakeholders and donors, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures that the association remains a pillar of support for diverse populations. This leadership role involves setting the tone for organizational excellence and fostering a deep commitment to social responsibility. Through the implementation of innovative health and wellness initiatives, Bertram Lawson enhances the quality of life for members throughout the region. The President & Chief Executive Officer monitors the effectiveness of all eight YMCA locations to guarantee consistent service delivery. Ultimately, Lawson strengthens the association by championing a mission-driven approach to community development and regional growth.
    Bertram Lawson

    Rachel Firkser - Chief Financial Officer

    Rachel Firkser, the Chief Financial Officer at YMCA of Greater Brandywine, directs the fiscal strategy and financial health of the entire association. Firkser manages the allocation of resources to support life-changing programs across Chester County, ensuring that every dollar contributes to the mission of promoting healthy living and social responsibility. By overseeing budgeting, auditing, and financial reporting, the Chief Financial Officer provides the necessary stability for long-term growth. This leadership role involves collaborating with the executive team to align financial goals with the organization's commitment to community strengthening. Through rigorous fiscal oversight, Rachel Firkser maintains the transparency and accountability required to manage donor contributions and member fees effectively. The Chief Financial Officer monitors economic trends to mitigate risks and identify opportunities for operational expansion. Ultimately, Firkser secures the financial foundation that allows the association to continue serving diverse populations throughout the region.

    Jody Giardina - Chief Operating Officer

    Jody Giardina, the Chief Operating Officer at YMCA of Greater Brandywine, manages the daily execution of programs and facility operations across all eight Chester County locations. Giardina optimizes internal processes to ensure that every branch delivers high-quality services tailored to the unique needs of local communities. By coordinating with branch directors, the Chief Operating Officer maintains operational efficiency and safety standards throughout the association. This leadership role involves overseeing the logistics of youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility initiatives. Through the implementation of standardized operational protocols, Jody Giardina supports the association's mission to nurture potential in children and seniors. The Chief Operating Officer monitors performance metrics to drive continuous improvement in service delivery. Ultimately, Giardina ensures that the organization remains a reliable and effective resource for the diverse communities served across the entire region.

    Natalia Gallon - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Natalia Gallon, the Chief Human Resources Officer at YMCA of Greater Brandywine, architects the talent strategy and organizational culture for the entire association. Gallon manages the recruitment, development, and retention of staff and volunteers who drive the mission of nurturing potential in children and families across Chester County. By fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the team remains dedicated to the association's core values of healthy living and social responsibility. This leadership role involves designing professional development programs that empower employees to deliver exceptional service at all eight locations. Through the implementation of effective human capital policies, Natalia Gallon aligns the workforce with the strategic objectives of the organization. The Chief Human Resources Officer monitors employee engagement to maintain high standards of service delivery. Ultimately, Gallon strengthens the association by building a resilient and mission-focused team.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding YMCA of Greater Brandywine Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads YMCA of Greater Brandywine?
    YMCA of Greater Brandywine is led by Joseph Tankle (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Bertram Lawson (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Rachel Firkser (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of YMCA of Greater Brandywine’s executive team?
    The executive team of YMCA of Greater Brandywine includes leaders such as Joseph Tankle (Chief Executive Officer), Bertram Lawson (President & Chief Executive Officer), Rachel Firkser (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does YMCA of Greater Brandywine have?
    YMCA of Greater Brandywine has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in YMCA of Greater Brandywine’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of YMCA of Greater Brandywine includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer.