A View From The C-Suite: Sam Franklin of the YMCA of Greenville

Sam Franklin

President and CEO

YMCA of Greenville

What’s the best advice you have ever received?

“Lead with empathy, not ego.”
This advice has stuck with me throughout my career. It reminds me that effective leadership isn’t about having all the answers, but about listening, understanding others’ perspectives, and creating an environment where everyone feels seen, heard and valued.

What’s the best advice you could give?

“Stay anchored in your ‘why.’”
It’s easy to get swept up in goals and tasks, but if you stay grounded in your purpose — why you do what you do — your work will always feel meaningful, and your leadership will be more impactful.

What is the stiffest challenge facing your industry right now?

Recruiting and retaining passionate, qualified staff while adapting to evolving community needs and expectations.

Little known fact about your organization:

The YMCA of Greenville was chartered in 1876, making us 149 years old!  From those humble beginnings, our YMCA now serves more than 80,000 people each year through memberships, programs and outreach.

What was your first job?

I worked at the Harding Place YMCA in Nashville, Tenn., as a Welcome Center attendee welcoming, checking in and signing up new members.  To this day, one of my favorite jobs I have ever had in the Y!

Describe your role:

I serve as a connector and catalyst — developing strategy, empowering teams and making sure everything we do aligns with our mission to strengthen all the communities that we serve in Greenville County.

What does your organization do?

The YMCA of Greenville is more than a gym — we’re a nonprofit committed to transforming lives. We offer programs that promote youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, helping people of all ages and backgrounds thrive.