Alema Key serves as the Chief Strategic Officer for Youth Health Associates (YHA), where he leads organizational strategy, operational excellence, business development, and multi-state expansion initiatives. In this role, he works closely with executive leadership to strengthen systems, improve outcomes, and position YHA for sustainable growth while advancing its mission of serving youth and families.

Alema holds a Bachelor's Degree in Health Administrative Services from Weber State University, where he was a student-athlete and played five seasons as a fullback and middle linebacker. His experience as an athlete helped shape his leadership philosophy, emphasizing discipline, teamwork, accountability, resilience, and personal development.

With more than a decade of experience working with youth since 2013, Alema has served across multiple treatment settings, populations, and levels of care. Throughout his career, he has worked directly with youth facing behavioral health challenges, trauma, family instability, and complex treatment needs, providing him with a comprehensive understanding of both direct care and organizational leadership within the behavioral health field.

Alema's journey with YHA began in 2017, where he served in several frontline and leadership roles including Youth Mentor, Shift Lead, and Facility Supervisor. These experiences provided him with a deep understanding of YHA residential treatment operations and reinforced his belief that meaningful change begins with strong relationships, consistency, and accountability.

In 2022, Alema joined The Picklr as Director of Franchise Operations. During his tenure, he oversaw operational systems, training, franchise support, and organizational growth initiatives that contributed to the company's rapid expansion from 7 operating facilities to 60 locations in just two years. He worked closely with executive leadership to develop scalable processes, strengthen operational performance, and support one of the fastest growth periods in the organization's history.

In January 2026, Alema returned to YHA full-time to help lead the organization's next phase of growth and development. As Chief Strategic Officer, he focuses on expanding services into new states, building strategic partnerships, strengthening organizational infrastructure, and creating systems that support operational excellence and quality care across all programs.

Alema is passionate about developing leaders and creating opportunities for others to grow beyond what they believe is possible. 

Outside of work, Alema enjoys spending time with his Wife and 2 Boys, enjoying outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, pickleball, sports and more.