YMCA of Greater Brandywine Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Committed to nurturing community potential, YMCA of Greater Brandywine delivers life-changing programs across Chester County to promote healthy living and social responsibility.

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 across Chester County, ensuring that every location meets the specific health and wellness needs of local residents. By coordinating with the Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer secures the long-term sustainability of community programs. This leadership role involves fostering partnerships with donors and volunteers to expand the reach of youth development initiatives. Joseph Tankle drives the mission of promoting healthy living through rigorous oversight of organizational goals. Through constant evaluation of program efficacy, the Chief Executive Officer maintains high standards of service delivery. Tankle ensures that the association remains a cornerstone of community support, effectively balancing fiscal health with the expansion of social responsibility efforts throughout the region.

    Bertram Lawson - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Bertram Lawson, the President & Chief Executive Officer at YMCA of Greater Brandywine, architects the high-level growth strategy for the entire association. Lawson oversees the integration of diverse community programs, ensuring that the organization effectively nurtures the potential of children and seniors alike. By engaging with regional stakeholders, the President & Chief Executive Officer strengthens the commitment to social responsibility across Chester County. This leadership role requires constant monitoring of market trends to adapt facilities for evolving community interests. Bertram Lawson drives operational excellence by unifying the efforts of staff and volunteers toward a shared vision of wellness. Through strategic planning, the President & Chief Executive Officer expands the impact of the association, securing resources necessary for long-term community development. Lawson maintains a focus on inclusive growth, ensuring that every program reflects the unique needs of the diverse populations served.
    Bertram Lawson

    Rachel Firkser - Chief Financial Officer

    Rachel Firkser, the Chief Financial Officer at YMCA of Greater Brandywine, manages the fiscal health and resource allocation for the entire association. Firkser oversees the budgeting process for eight facilities, ensuring that financial assets support the core mission of promoting healthy living. By analyzing revenue streams and donor contributions, the Chief Financial Officer maintains the stability required for long-term program sustainability. This leadership role involves collaborating with the executive team to prioritize investments in infrastructure and community services. Rachel Firkser drives financial transparency and accountability, providing the data necessary for informed decision-making at the board level. Through rigorous auditing and financial planning, the Chief Financial Officer protects the organization against economic volatility. Firkser ensures that every dollar contributes directly to the nurturing of potential within Chester County, balancing operational costs with the expansion of vital community programs.

    Jody Giardina - Chief Operating Officer

    Jody Giardina, the Chief Operating Officer at YMCA of Greater Brandywine, directs the daily operations and facility management across all eight locations. Giardina oversees the implementation of life-changing programs, ensuring that each site functions efficiently to meet the needs of families and adults. By coordinating staff workflows and facility maintenance, the Chief Operating Officer maintains high standards of safety and service quality. This leadership role involves optimizing the delivery of health and wellness initiatives to maximize community engagement. Jody Giardina drives operational improvements by streamlining processes and fostering a culture of excellence among site managers. Through constant monitoring of program performance, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that every facility remains aligned with the broader mission of the association. Giardina supports the expansion of services throughout Chester County, focusing on the practical execution of strategies that promote healthy living and social responsibility.

    Natalia Gallon - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Natalia Gallon, the Chief Human Resources Officer at YMCA of Greater Brandywine, architects the talent acquisition and workforce development strategies for the association. Gallon oversees the recruitment, training, and retention of staff and volunteers who drive the mission of nurturing community potential. By fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the team remains committed to the values of the organization. This leadership role involves managing employee relations and professional development programs to enhance the quality of service delivery across all facilities. Natalia Gallon drives organizational culture by aligning human capital with the strategic goals of the association. Through effective performance management, the Chief Human Resources Officer supports the growth of the workforce, ensuring that every individual contributes to the health and wellness of Chester County. Gallon maintains a focus on building a resilient team capable of meeting evolving community needs.

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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.