YMCA of Greater Brandywine Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

YMCA of Greater Brandywine has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, human resources, and community engagement.

Driven by a commitment to community enrichment, YMCA of Greater Brandywine fosters potential in children, promotes healthy living, and cultivates social responsibility through programs tailored to local needs.

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 - Natalie Gallon-Garcia
  • Joseph Tankle - Chief Executive Officer

    Joseph Tankle, the Chief Executive Officer at YMCA of Greater Brandywine, directs the overarching strategy and vision for the association's eight YMCAs across Chester County. Tankle's leadership ensures the organization effectively nurtures the potential of children, promotes healthy living, and fosters social responsibility throughout the communities served. This executive guides the strategic alignment of all programs and facilities, ensuring they meet unique local needs and interests. Tankle's focus remains on strengthening Chester County by driving impactful initiatives and maintaining the core values of the YMCA. The Chief Executive Officer's role involves setting the direction for organizational growth and community impact, ensuring sustained relevance and service delivery.

    Bertram Lawson - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Bertram Lawson, the President & Chief Executive Officer at YMCA of Greater Brandywine, spearheads the strategic direction and operational execution across all eight Chester County locations. Lawson's leadership ensures the association's commitment to nurturing children's potential, promoting healthy lifestyles, and fostering social responsibility is consistently met. This executive oversees the integration of programs and facilities, adapting them to the specific needs and interests of the diverse communities served. Bertram Lawson drives the organization's mission to strengthen Chester County by fostering collaboration among volunteers, staff, members, and donors. The President & Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities include advancing the YMCA's impact and ensuring its long-term sustainability and community relevance.
    Bertram Lawson

    Rachel Firkser - Chief Financial Officer

    Rachel Firkser, the Chief Financial Officer at YMCA of Greater Brandywine, manages the fiscal health and financial strategy for the association's eight YMCAs. Firkser oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and resource allocation, ensuring the organization's ability to deliver life-changing programs for children, families, adults, and seniors. This executive's role is critical in maintaining financial stability, enabling the continued promotion of healthy living and social responsibility across Chester County. Rachel Firkser ensures that financial resources are effectively deployed to meet the unique needs of the communities served, supporting the overall mission of strengthening Chester County. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight guarantees prudent financial management and supports sustainable growth.

    Jody Giardina - Chief Operating Officer

    Jody Giardina, the Chief Operating Officer at YMCA of Greater Brandywine, directs the day-to-day operations of the association's eight YMCAs throughout Chester County. Giardina ensures the seamless delivery of programs designed to nurture children's potential, promote healthy living, and foster social responsibility. This executive oversees the operational efficiency of all facilities, guaranteeing they align with the unique needs and interests of the communities served. Jody Giardina's focus is on optimizing service delivery and enhancing the member experience across all locations. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities include implementing strategic initiatives at the operational level, driving excellence in program execution and facility management to strengthen Chester County.

    Natalie Gallon-Garcia - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Natalie Gallon-Garcia, the Chief Human Resources Officer at YMCA of Greater Brandywine, leads the strategic management of human capital across the association's eight YMCAs. Gallon-Garcia oversees talent acquisition, development, and retention initiatives, ensuring a skilled and dedicated workforce committed to the organization's mission. This executive cultivates a positive and inclusive work environment, supporting staff, volunteers, and members in their efforts to nurture children, promote healthy living, and foster social responsibility. Natalie Gallon-Garcia ensures HR policies and practices align with the unique needs of the communities served and contribute to strengthening Chester County. The Chief Human Resources Officer's role is vital in building and maintaining the organizational capacity required for sustained community impact.

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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.