YMCA of Greater Brandywine Executive and Leadership Team

November, 2026

Leadership Overview

YMCA of Greater Brandywine has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, organizational leadership, 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 for all residents.

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 architects long-term growth initiatives that expand the reach of youth development and healthy living programs throughout Chester County. By aligning board objectives with community needs, the Chief Executive Officer ensures the organization maintains a robust presence across all eight locations. This leadership role involves cultivating donor relationships and securing the financial sustainability required to support diverse member demographics. Joseph Tankle monitors the efficacy of community outreach efforts, ensuring every program reflects the core mission of fostering social responsibility. Through consistent engagement with local stakeholders, the Chief Executive Officer drives the expansion of facilities and services. Ultimately, Tankle secures the future of the association by prioritizing inclusive growth and operational excellence across the entire regional footprint.

    Bertram Lawson - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Bertram Lawson, the President & Chief Executive Officer at YMCA of Greater Brandywine, leads the executive team in executing the mission of strengthening Chester County. Lawson defines the cultural standards for the association, ensuring every staff member and volunteer promotes the potential of children and seniors alike. The President & Chief Executive Officer manages high-level partnerships that enhance the impact of health and wellness programs across the region. By focusing on organizational health, Bertram Lawson drives the integration of new community-based services that address the unique interests of diverse populations. This role requires constant collaboration with the board to refine the strategic roadmap for the association. Through rigorous oversight of mission-driven activities, the President & Chief Executive Officer maintains the reputation of the organization as a pillar of community support. Lawson secures the long-term viability of the association through proactive leadership and community-focused innovation.
    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 architects comprehensive financial strategies that support the operation of eight distinct facilities across Chester County. By overseeing budgeting, auditing, and financial reporting, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the organization maintains the stability necessary to fund life-changing programs. This role involves analyzing revenue streams from memberships and donations to optimize the delivery of services to children, families, and seniors. Rachel Firkser collaborates with other executive leaders to align capital investments with the long-term goals of the association. Through meticulous management of assets and liabilities, the Chief Financial Officer protects the financial integrity of the organization. Firkser drives efficiency in administrative processes, allowing more resources to flow directly into community-focused initiatives that strengthen the regional impact of the association.

    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 Chester County locations. Giardina architects scalable operational frameworks that ensure consistent service quality for members and program participants. By overseeing the logistics of health and wellness programs, the Chief Operating Officer maintains high standards of safety and accessibility for the diverse community served. This role involves coordinating with site directors to optimize facility usage and program scheduling based on local needs. Jody Giardina monitors operational performance metrics to identify areas for improvement in service delivery. Through effective management of internal processes, the Chief Operating Officer supports the broader mission of promoting healthy living. Giardina drives the implementation of new operational policies that enhance the member experience, ensuring the association remains a responsive and vital resource for families and individuals throughout the region.

    Natalia Gallon - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Natalia Gallon, the Chief Human Resources Officer at YMCA of Greater Brandywine, directs the talent acquisition and workforce development strategies for the entire association. Gallon architects programs that recruit and retain dedicated staff and volunteers committed to the mission of nurturing potential. By overseeing employee relations, benefits administration, and professional development, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures the organization maintains a high-performing team capable of delivering exceptional service. This role involves fostering an inclusive workplace culture that reflects the diversity of the communities served across Chester County. Natalia Gallon collaborates with leadership to align human capital strategies with the operational goals of the association. Through the implementation of training initiatives, the Chief Human Resources Officer drives the professional growth of the workforce. Gallon secures the organizational capacity to meet the evolving needs of members by prioritizing employee engagement and effective talent management practices.

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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.