The YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg has announced the appointment of Nicci Bucher as its next chief executive officer, effective in November.
Bucher, who currently serves as chief operating officer for the YMCA of Central Florida, will succeed longtime president and CEO David Jezek. The transition marks a new chapter for one of the city’s leading community organizations and comes after a months-long national search.
For Tampa Bay’s business and nonprofit community, the move represents both continuity and change — a handoff that underscores the organization’s growing role in regional leadership and civic engagement.
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What Happened
The YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg confirmed Bucher’s appointment following a search process that included input from community stakeholders, staff and board members.
Bucher brings more than two decades of experience in nonprofit management and community development. During her tenure at the YMCA of Central Florida, she oversaw multiple branches, advanced youth programs and developed partnerships that strengthened health and education initiatives across the region.
Jezek, who has led the St. Petersburg organization for more than a decade, called the appointment a fitting next step for the Y’s continued growth.
“Nicci brings a strong record of leadership, innovation and genuine commitment to community impact,” Jezek said. “I’m confident she will honor the foundation we’ve built together while leading our Y into an exciting new chapter of growth and service.”
Jezek also thanked the community for its input during the interview process, calling it “invaluable” to the search committee.
What’s Happening Next
Bucher will officially begin her role in November, following a brief transition period with Jezek. The organization is expected to release a formal statement later this week and announce details of a community introduction event.
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The YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg continues to expand its footprint across Pinellas County, with programs focused on youth mentorship, education and health equity. Bucher’s leadership is expected to build on those initiatives while exploring new partnerships with local businesses, schools and civic organizations.
What This Means for You
For business leaders and community investors, Bucher’s appointment reflects the growing intersection of nonprofit leadership and regional economic development.
The YMCA’s influence extends well beyond recreation and fitness. Its programs shape workforce readiness, early education and community health — all key components of Tampa Bay’s long-term growth strategy.
Under Bucher’s leadership, observers can expect:
- Increased collaboration among Florida YMCAs to align programs and share resources.
- New partnerships between local companies and the Y’s youth and wellness initiatives.
- A continued focus on accessibility and inclusion across all community programs.
For local executives, this transition highlights the importance of leadership that combines operational expertise with a strong sense of purpose.
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What You Can Do Now
Business owners and civic partners can engage by:
- Supporting the YMCA’s community outreach and workforce initiatives.
- Exploring sponsorships or corporate partnerships aligned with the Y’s mission.
- Staying informed on new programs and regional initiatives under Bucher’s leadership.
The Bottom Line
Leadership transitions often define an organization’s next era. For the YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg, this one brings both stability and momentum.
As Jezek steps aside, he leaves a legacy of expansion and community trust. Bucher now takes the reins with a mandate to innovate, building on a foundation of decades of service.
The YMCA’s next chapter begins this fall — and its success will depend, as always, on the community it serves.
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