Old Town-Orono YMCA Director Jeff Wheelden has resigned as executive director of that organization, effective Dec. 31, to take a new position as chief financial officer for Waterfront Concerts.

Wheelden, an Old Town native, has been the Y’s CEO since 2010, and held the position on an interim basis a year before that. His relationship with the Y, however, goes back many years, both as an employee and a participant in its programs since he was a child.

“I’ve spent 17 wonderful years at the Y, and it’s had a special place in my heart for more than 35 years,” said Wheelden.” I expect it will continue to play a large role in my personal life as I focus on new challenges professionally”

“I want to thank the Board of Directors for their solid leadership, all the employees of the Y, past and present for their hard work and dedication, and of course, all of our wonderful members and donors for their belief in the mission and continued support.”

Wheelden said he has been friends with Waterfront Concerts Alex Grey for many years, and has already been helping out with shows for the past few years.

“I just decided it was time for a change, and it’s a good time to go,” said Wheelden.” We’ve turned our finances around – we had a lot of debt we didn’t need – and this Y is as stable as a non-profit can be.”

Several big projects have been done in Wheelden’s years at the helm, including repairs to the parking lot and gym floor. One more project – replacing the HVAC system for the pool at the high school- is planned for Thanksgiving weekend.

In a press release, the Y’s Board of Directors thanked Wheelden for his service and wished him the best in his new role with Waterfront Concerts.

“His expertise and leadership at the Old Town-Orono YMCA has been beneficial and has led the Y to new levels of achievement,” wrote the board. “As Jess transitions to his new role, the Board of Directors will look to the staff of the Y to continue its heritage in serving the community in grand style.

The board of directors had established a search committee and will begin the hunt for a new CEO soon. And while Wheelden no longer will be running the show, he still will be a familiar face at the Y.

“I’ll be coming here to use the facility every day,” he said. “I’ll still be around.”