NewsLine staff
The YMCA of Florida’s First Coast has appointed Darryl Head as its next president and CEO, effective early May 2026. Head brings 38 years of YMCA experience to Northeast Florida, where he will lead the organization’s mission focused on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.
Head succeeds Eric Mann, who is retiring at the end of June after a 40-year career with the YMCA, including 14 years at the helm of the First Coast association. The two will work together through June to ensure a seamless leadership transition.
“Darryl is a proven leader and faithful steward of the association’s values,” said Pam Smith, chair of the board of directors for the YMCA of Florida’s First Coast. “He is well-positioned to deepen the YMCA’s life-changing impact for children, families and communities across Northeast Florida.”
Most recently, Head served as president and CEO of the YMCA of Northwest North Carolina, overseeing 1,425 employees and 14 branches serving more than 78,000 members. During his tenure, he led the opening of the YMCA REACH Center in East Winston-Salem, established major medical partnerships and achieved record-breaking fundraising performances.
“I am so honored to join the First Coast YMCA and to become part of this vibrant and growing community,” Head said. “I look forward to building upon the association’s solid foundation and powerful legacy of service.”
Beyond his professional leadership, Head is an avid runner and a dedicated youth sports coach, having coached more than 720 children in basketball, football and soccer. He and his wife, Karin, have two children, Reed and Hayden.
For nearly 120 years, the YMCA of Florida’s First Coast has provided opportunities for residents of all ages to build stronger bonds and live healthier lives. For more information, visit fcymca.org.
