Director of Ice Rink and Facilities

Overview:

We are seeking a highly skilled and driven Director of Ice Rink and Facilities to lead the operations of Wings Arena, ensuring top-tier ice quality, efficient building management, and an exceptional team environment. This role requires a hands-on leader who can set and execute strategic direction, manage vendor relationships, and oversee budgeting while fostering a culture of excellence. The ideal candidate has a deep understanding of ice rink operations, strong leadership skills, and a passion for continuous improvement. This role reports to Wings Arena CEO.

Key Roles and Responsibilities:

Building Management & Ice Operations:

• Ensure the e icient operation of all aspects of the ice rink, maintaining the highest standards.

• Operate and maintain ice edgers and ice resurfacers.

• Train new ice-resurfacer operators as needed.

• Oversee the maintenance of rink equipment, including compressors, chillers, HVAC units, dehumidifiers, and other essential machinery.

• Develop and implement maintenance schedules for ice, equipment, and the facility.

• Monitor system performance, ensuring optimal efficiency, energy conservation, and regulatory compliance.

• Maintain the facility’s exterior, including signage and parking areas.

• Conduct routine inspections of lighting, heating, water, mechanicals, and general cleanliness.

• Maintain an organized inventory of tools for easy access by team members.

Team Leadership & Development:

• Establish and maintain best-in-class operational standards.

• Inspire, train, coach, and develop a high-performing team.

• Recruit and hire qualified personnel.

• Effectively manage staff schedules.

• Address performance issues promptly and professionally.

Vendor & Budget Management:

• Strategically manage all vendor relationships related to rink and facilities operations.

• Evaluate vendor quality, negotiate contracts, and make strategic changes when needed.

• Oversee the annual budget and ensure the achievement of financial KPIs.

Skills Needed & Personal Attributes:

Ice Rink & Building management expertise

• Ice Maintenance & Resurfacing Expertise – Knowledge of ice resurfacers, edgers, and proper ice care techniques.

• Mechanical & Equipment Maintenance Skills – Understanding of HVAC, compressors, chillers, dehumidifiers, and general facility upkeep.

• Safety & Regulatory Compliance Knowledge – Familiarity with inspections, risk management, and industry safety standards.

Vendor Relationship Management:

• Strong ability to assess vendor quality and negotiate e ective contracts.

• Strategic decision-making regarding vendor selection and performance.

Problem Solving & Strategic Thinking:

• Effective problem-solving skills and adaptability in a dynamic environment.

Communication & Leadership:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Strong ability to foster collaboration within the team and with customers.

• Leadership qualities that inspire a team to achieve excellence.

Financial & Project Management:

• Experience managing budgets with accountability for financial KPIs.

• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and prioritize e ectively.

Personal Attributes

• Growth mindset with a passion for continuous improvement.

• Strong sense of urgency and responsiveness.

• Reliability, punctuality, and a proactive work ethic.

• Positive, team-oriented attitude with a commitment to excellence.

Qualifications:

• Minimum 5 years of experience in the ice rink industry.

• Deep knowledge of ice rink refrigeration systems, ice-making, and facilities management.

• Recognized certification from industry associations preferred.

• Minimum 3 years of leadership experience, with a proven track record of team development and performance improvement.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Email, Word, Excel).

Job requirements

• This is an on-site position

• Must have the ability to work evenings and weekends as required by rink operations.

• Schedule will vary based on rink operations and programming needs

• Expected Start Date: May 5, 2025

This is an exciting opportunity for a driven professional who takes pride in operational excellence and team leadership. If you are passionate about delivering top-tier rink experiences and building a high-performing team, we’d love to hear from you!

What we offer

• Competitive salary based on experience, including a bonus component based on KPIs

• Career development opportunities

• Employee benefits, including health insurance and retirement benefits, PTO

We value diversity

At Wings Arena, we believe our di erences make us stronger. We foster an inclusive, respectful, and collaborative environment where diverse perspectives drive growth. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, ensuring fair and equal opportunities for everyone.

About Wings Arena

At Wings Arena, our mission is to foster a love for ice sports while providing a top-quality experience for the community, the athletes, and the patrons that visit us.

Opening in the Summer of 2025, Wings Arena aims to be one of the premier ice rinks in the Northeast by o ering exceptional ice quality, outstanding customer service, and a superior guest experience in a clean, modern facility. Our two-story facility features a 300-seat capacity with two viewing areas, an o -ice training room with synthetic ice, and a dedicated video room for skill development. We also o er skate rentals, skate services, and a Nutrition Hub Café providing healthy options for athletes and visitors.

Wings Arena will serve as a hub for ice sports, offering learn-to-skate programs, public skating sessions, birthday parties and events, and comprehensive hockey and figure skating programs for all ages and skill levels, from beginners to advanced athletes.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $75,000.00 - $85,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan

Schedule:

• Weekends as needed

Ability to Commute:

• Stamford, CT 06902 (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $75,000 - $85,000