Parks and Recreation Director

Duties: Provide effective management and oversight of the Parks and Recreation Department, including developing organizational structures, processes, and policies to administer, coordinate and maintain, community services programs, parks and city cemeteries. Develop and implement department goals including a Parks Master Plan, to provide strategic objectives for the department in alignment with citywide priorities. Participate in the development and administration of the operations and Capital Improvement Program budget, and the Parks & Recreation Department budget, including Measure M and other sources of funding; direct the forecast of additional funds needed for staffing, equipment, materials and supplies; monitor and approve departmental expenditures; and direct preparation and implementation of budgetary adjustments as necessary. Select, train, and motivate, personnel; foster an atmosphere of collaboration and mutual respect; provide or coordinate staff training; conduct performance evaluations on a timely basis; implement discipline procedures; and maintain discipline and high standards necessary for the efficient and professional operation of the department. Contribute to the overall quality of the department’s services by developing, reviewing, and implementing policies and procedures that support a cohesive workflow among the various, often interdependent department divisions. Monitor and evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of department methods and procedures and administrative and support systems; identify opportunities for improvement; and direct the implementation of changes. Advise and consult City management and support staff regarding ongoing parks and recreation issues, initiatives and concerns facing the City. Provide technical assistance to develop and implement the City’s Urban Forest Management Plan (UFMP), fostering sustainability and environmental stewardship. Integrate parks and recreation goals with citywide infrastructure and development projects to ensure coordinated oversight of the maintenance, enhancement, and operation of parks, trails, recreation facilities, and city cemeteries. Administer and monitor the use of Measure M funds to enhance parks, recreation facilities, and programs. Serve as lead staff to the Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces Commission and the Cultural and Fine Arts Commission, providing technical and administrative support. Oversee partnership with community groups, schools, and organizations to promote engagement and maximize resources to develop and expand diverse recreational programs and activities for residents of all ages and abilities. Plan and oversee the development of new parks and the enhancement of existing facilities. Promote sustainable practices in department operations, services and programs. Negotiate and oversee contracts with vendors, service providers, and consultants for projects and services and ensure compliance with City standards. Prepare and manage the department’s budget, including pursuing grants and other funding opportunities. Monitor expenditures and ensure financial accountability. Recruit, train, and manage department staff, fostering professional growth and excellence. Cultivate an inclusive and collaborative team environment. Support transparent and effective communication in dealings with City departments, elected officials, outside agencies and the public; explain and interpret departmental programs, policies, and activities; and effectively negotiate and resolve significant and controversial issues. Participate in and make presentations to the City Council, Parks Recreations and Open Spaces Commission, Cultural and Fine Arts Commission and a variety of boards and commissions; attend and participate in professional group meetings; and stay abreast of new trends and innovations in the field of parks, recreation and community services. Maintain and direct the maintenance of working and official departmental files, including accurate and complete records related to licenses, permits, maps, etc. Monitor change in laws, regulations, and technology that may affect City or departmental operations and implement policy and procedural changes as required. Conduct organizational and operational studies; recommend modifications to programs, policies, and procedures as appropriate. Performs related duties as assigned.

Skills and Abilities: Develop departments, programs and new initiatives. Implement organizational and management practices to analyze and evaluate partnerships, programs, policies, and operational needs. Excellent leadership, strategic planning, and interpersonal communication skills. Ability to collaborate effectively with other municipal departments and community stakeholders. Direct the gathering, organization, analysis, and presentation of a variety of data and information. Prepare clear, concise, and accurate records and reports. Evaluate, formulate, and develop recommendations on improvements to City operations, programs, and services. Provide advice and consultation to the City Council on the development of ordinances, regulations, programs, and policies. Communicate clearly and concisely orally and in writing during public presentations and meetings with internal staff, City Council and commissions and committees. Exercise supervisory and management authority tactfully and effectively. Effectively represent the City’s policies, programs, and services with the public, community organizations, City staff, and other government agencies. Exercise sound, independent judgment within established guidelines.

Working Conditions: Primarily office-based with frequent visits to parks, facilities, and outdoor sites. Occasional evening and weekend work required for meetings, events, or emergencies.

Qualifications: Knowledge of: Principles and practices of public administration including administrative analysis, fiscal planning and control, policy, and program development. Principles, methods and techniques used in parks and recreation administration, and community services management Advanced principles and practices of horticulture, landscape, park facility design and use. Sustainable practices in department operations and programs. Compliance with local, state, and federal regulations regarding parks, recreation, and community services operations. Advanced principles and practices of leadership, motivation, teambuilding, and conflict resolution. Principles and practices of supervision, training, and performance evaluation. Financial management practices and reporting requirements for Measure M or similar community funding initiatives. Proficiency in urban forest management practices and sustainability programs. Operate office equipment including computers and supporting word processing, spreadsheet, and database applications.

Education and Experience: Any combination equivalent experience and education that could likely provide the required knowledge and abilities would be qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Experience: At least 7 years of increasingly responsible administrative experience in parks and recreation program management, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.

Education: Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Parks and Recreation Management, Public Administration or a related field is desirable.