YMCA of Greater Brandywine Executive and Leadership Team

August, 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.

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 strategic vision for the association. Tankle architects long-term growth initiatives that expand program accessibility for children and seniors throughout Chester County. By aligning organizational goals with community needs, the Chief Executive Officer ensures the association maintains a robust presence across all eight locations. This leadership role involves constant engagement with donors and stakeholders to secure the financial health of the organization. Joseph Tankle drives the mission of fostering social responsibility by implementing inclusive community outreach programs. Through rigorous oversight of the association's mission-driven activities, the Chief Executive Officer guarantees that every facility remains a cornerstone of health and wellness. Tankle maintains high standards of operational excellence, ensuring that the association continues to strengthen the fabric of the local community through dedicated service and impactful programming.

    Bertram Lawson - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Bertram Lawson, the President & Chief Executive Officer at YMCA of Greater Brandywine, manages the executive leadership team to advance the association's core mission. Lawson drives the development of innovative health and wellness initiatives that cater to the diverse needs of Chester County residents. As the President & Chief Executive Officer, Lawson coordinates with the board to refine the strategic direction of the organization, ensuring alignment with the goal of nurturing the potential of kids and families. This role requires constant monitoring of regional market trends to optimize program delivery across all eight YMCA branches. Bertram Lawson executes high-level partnerships that bolster the association's capacity to serve the community effectively. By prioritizing social responsibility and healthy living, the President & Chief Executive Officer secures the long-term sustainability of the organization, ultimately strengthening the collective impact of the association on the entire region.
    Bertram Lawson

    Rachel Firkser - Chief Financial Officer

    Rachel Firkser, the Chief Financial Officer at YMCA of Greater Brandywine, oversees the fiscal health and budgetary integrity of the entire association. Firkser architects comprehensive financial strategies that support the expansion of life-changing programs across Chester County. By managing capital allocation and revenue streams, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that all eight YMCA locations possess the necessary resources to fulfill the organizational mission. This role involves rigorous analysis of financial performance to drive operational efficiency and long-term sustainability. Rachel Firkser collaborates with the executive team to align fiscal planning with the strategic goals of promoting healthy living and social responsibility. Through meticulous oversight of accounting practices and donor fund management, the Chief Financial Officer maintains transparency and accountability. Firkser secures the financial foundation required for the association to continue serving the diverse needs of children, families, and seniors throughout the region.

    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 program quality for children, families, and seniors. By optimizing staff workflows and facility utilization, the Chief Operating Officer drives the delivery of life-changing services that promote healthy living. This role involves close coordination with branch directors to maintain high standards of safety and community engagement. Jody Giardina executes strategic improvements to the association's infrastructure, ensuring that every facility meets the unique needs of the local communities served. Through the implementation of efficient operational processes, the Chief Operating Officer supports the broader mission of fostering social responsibility. Giardina monitors performance metrics to ensure that all programs remain impactful, accessible, and aligned with the core values of the association.

    Natalie Gallon-Garcia - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Natalie Gallon-Garcia, the Chief Human Resources Officer at YMCA of Greater Brandywine, directs the talent acquisition, development, and retention strategies for the entire association. Gallon-Garcia architects comprehensive workforce programs that empower staff and volunteers to nurture the potential of kids and families across Chester County. By fostering a culture of inclusivity and professional growth, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the organization attracts top-tier talent dedicated to the mission of healthy living. This role involves managing complex organizational structures to support the diverse needs of all eight YMCA locations. Natalie Gallon-Garcia executes strategic initiatives that align human capital with the association's long-term goals of social responsibility and community impact. Through the development of robust training and performance management systems, the Chief Human Resources Officer maintains a high-performing team capable of delivering exceptional service to the community, ultimately strengthening the association's overall operational capacity.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Membership Organizations

    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.