Parks and Recreation Director

Parks & Recreation Director – Job Responsibility SummaryPosition Overview

The Parks & Recreation Director oversees the planning, development, and management of Oxford's Parks and Recreation Department. This role ensures the provision of diverse recreational activities, facilities, and services that promote health, fitness, cultural enrichment, and community engagement.

The Director reports to the City Manager and supervises both direct and indirect reports, overseeing a large staff responsible for recreational programming, park maintenance, and facility operations.

Key ResponsibilitiesLeadership & Administration

• Directs and administers the Parks & Recreation Department, ensuring alignment with the City's policies and goals.
• Leads, mentors, and supervises department staff, including recruitment, training, performance evaluations, and employee relations.
• Develops short- and long-term goals, policies, and strategic plans for recreational programs and park facilities.
• Provides recommendations to City Council and senior management on key improvements and initiatives.

Financial Management

• Develops and manages the department’s annual operating and capital budgets.
• Monitors expenditures, ensures efficient allocation of resources, and oversees financial reporting.
• Identifies and pursues funding opportunities, grants, and partnerships for recreational programs and facility enhancements.

Recreational Program Development

• Plans, implements, and evaluates recreational activities and programs to meet the needs of Oxford residents.
• Encourages community participation and engagement in parks and recreational services.
• Recommends improvements in programming, facilities, and policies based on community feedback and industry trends.

Facility & Park Management

• Oversees the maintenance and development of parks, trails, athletic fields, playgrounds, aquatic center, and recreational facilities.
• Conducts inspections of parks and recreational areas, ensuring safety, accessibility, and compliance with regulations.
• Collaborates with contractors, vendors, and public works teams for park improvements and new facility developments.

Community Engagement & Public Relations

• Serves as a liaison to community organizations, local businesses, and government agencies.
• Promotes recreational programs through public outreach, marketing, and community events.
• Represents the department at City Council meetings, public forums, and professional conferences.

Required Skills & QualificationsEducational & Experience Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Recreation Management, or a related field (Master’s degree and CPRP certification preferred).
• 7 years of experience in public recreation, including 2 years in a supervisory role.
• Strong knowledge of local government management, recreation facility operations, and landscape design.

Technical & Administrative Skills

• Proficiency in budgeting, financial management, and grant administration.
• Experience with policy development, regulatory compliance, and departmental planning.
• Familiarity with modern recreation management software and operational tools.

Leadership & Communication Skills

• Ability to motivate and lead staff, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment.
• Strong public speaking, report-writing, and presentation skills.
• Excellent conflict resolution, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.

Work Environment & Conditions

• Primarily an office-based role, with outdoor requirements for events and inspections.
• Regularly interacts with city officials, residents, businesses, and community partners.
• May require evening, weekend, or holiday hours for special events and meetings.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $95,000.00 - $115,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Retirement plan

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Evenings as needed
• Nights as needed

Experience:

• Parks & Recreation: 7 years (Required)

License/Certification:

• Certified Parks and Recreation Professional (CPRP) (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Oxford, OH 45056 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Oxford, OH 45056: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $95,000 - $115,000