After more than four decades serving YMCAs across the country, including 14 years as president and CEO of the YMCA of Florida’s First Coast, Eric Mann has announced he will retire in Summer 2026. He’ll continue to serve the association in his current role and provide critical guidance throughout the transition period until his successor has been identified.
“Eric’s service to YMCAs across the country and his steadfast commitment and innovative approach to improving peoples’ lives across Northeast Florida is unmatched,” said Gary Norcross, the YMCA of Florida’s First Coast Metropolitan Board of Directors Chair, in a press release. “We’re a stronger community because of Eric, and that is truly the measure of his leadership.”
During Mann’s tenure as president and CEO, membership grew 33% as the association expanded across Clay, Duval, St. Johns and Nassau counties. New facilities, programs and collaborations with health partners emerged in Nocatee, Northwest St. Johns, Wildlight and Northside neighborhoods, with future expansion planned for the Durbin Park community.
Additional achievements and milestones under Mann include:
- Renovation of the Johnson Family YMCA in Northwest Jacksonville, including the addition of the state-of-the-art Teen Center and pool, and the construction of the Winston Family YMCA, the association’s largest branch.
- Fundraising growth of 515%, including a multi-million-dollar gift from Mackenzie Scott during the pandemic and more than $90 million received in contributions and gifts.
- Operational revenue growth of more than 50% in 14 years.
- Nearly 40% growth in total number of individuals served.
- Initiating a strategic planning process and overseeing the development and implementation of four consecutive plans.
- Launching healthy living centers open to both members and the public, which provide health screenings and programs on nutrition, healthy aging, heart health, coping with cancer and other topics related to navigating health care.
“It’s been a tremendous honor to serve the YMCA and the Northeast Florida community,” said Mann. “I’m confident the YMCA of Florida’s First Coast will continue to thrive and positively impact individuals by providing services and programs that promote a healthy body, mind and spirit.”
The YMCA of Florida’s First Coast Metro Board of Directors has initiated a nationwide search for a new CEO and established a search committee who will oversee the process in partnership with the YMCA of the USA. Notably, the search committee includes former and current board chairs who were involved in the recruitment of current CEO Eric Mann. The ideal candidate will be a passionate servant leader with excellent business acumen, an innovative spirit and someone who embraces the ideals of the YMCA of Florida’s First Coast.
