Assistant Director, Recreation & Leisure Services

The City of Savannah is seeking an energetic and detail oriented individual to join our Recreation & Leisure Services team as the next Assistant Director. This position is responsible for assisting with directing and managing the programs, services, maintenance and employees of the Recreation and Leisure Services Department. This position provides oversight and management of assigned divisions within the department which may include: Community Programs and Events, including community center management, youth and family programs, senior and adult daycare programs, therapeutic recreation and special events; or Recreation Planning and Operations, including athletic services, aquatics, recreation maintenance, strategic and capital planning and resource development.
We offer an excellent benefits package to include health, dental and vision, defined contribution plan (457b), life insurance, wellness programs, vacation, sick leave, paid holidays, employee assistance program, home buyers program, tuition reimbursement and more!

Supervises, directs, and evaluates assigned staff; handles employee concerns and problems; directs work; counsels and disciplines staff; completes employee performance appraisals; recruits, appoints, and trains staff.

Develops and implements a professional training and development program for department staff, building staff capacity to deliver high-quality programs. Responds to performance-related issues to address concerns, provide instruction and support to recreation staff, and improve service delivery.

Assists with the direction and management of the department programs, facilities, and grounds, to assure proper operating, safety and supervision, including scheduling and facility rentals; formulates department policies and procedures; and serves as backup to the Director as needed.

Develops and implements community outreach, marketing and promotional plans in cooperation with the Office of Marketing and Communications; promotes activities in neighborhoods, on the government channel, local media, and the City’s website.

Assists with annual budget preparation; monitors budgetary expenditures; recommends fee schedules, projects revenues; supports administration of department budget, approves requisitions, authorize payments. Prepares and manages grants and contracts, develops specifications for purchasing, reviews bids and proposals.

Develops, assigns and manages year-round programs and work schedules, monitors and assesses department programs, services and performance. Ensures compliance with federal, state and local laws, regulations, codes and/or standards as well as City and department policies and procedures.

Reviews department and program performance, analyzes statistical data, generates and submits reports and documentation, manages special projects, investigates and responds to issues and complaints.

Assists with analysis and assessment of programs, policies and operational needs and make appropriate adjustments as required; prepare strategic business and work plans to meet diverse customer needs and City and department priorities.

Collaborates and builds strong partnerships with community organizations, human services agencies, recreation and sport leagues, business and neighborhood groups, volunteer organizations, and government offices within the city, county and school system.

Develops, reviews, approves, and evaluates programs and services to ensure City programs and services are fun, current, diverse, interest the public and patrons receive a quality experience.

Participates on boards, commissions and committees as required; and prepares and presents presentations, staff reports and other necessary correspondence. Promotes and attends athletic games, recreational activities, and special events.
Performs other duties as assigned.

Assistant Director – Community Programs and Events

Plans, directs and provides oversight of Youth Services, Senior/Adult Daycare, and Therapeutic Recreation Services. Manages recreation centers, programs and staff, including quarterly and annual program schedules which maximize the use of City facilities.

Plans and implements city-wide events, promoting public interaction and attracting diverse participation in wholesome community activities. Coordinates activities with cultural and recreational organizations and other volunteer groups.

Evaluates participation rates and demographics, works with staff to increase participation through neighborhood outreach, targeted and citywide marketing, and participant recruitment.

Assistant Director – Planning and Operations

Plans, directs and provides oversight of Aquatic Services, Athletic Services and Recreation Maintenance. Manages aquatic and athletic facilities, programs and staff, reviews and approves schedules and activities, and promotes diverse public engagement.

Coordinates recreation planning, including short- and long-range recreation planning, capital planning, and resource development. Works with staff, the public, design, construction, and related personnel to plan, design and develop recreation facilities and amenities.

Oversees maintenance of recreation amenities, including athletic fields and courts, playgrounds, pools and splashpads. Directs and monitors the work program and work standards of maintenance staff, ensuring facilities are regularly cleaned, inspected, and repaired. Monitors recreation inventory, prioritizes needs, and manages repair and replacement funds.

Bachelor’s Degree in Recreation Administration, Recreation Science, Commercial Recreation; Public Administration or a related field; with four years progressively responsible administrative and supervisory experience in recreation administration, parks and recreation program development and implementation; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Must possess a valid driver's license. Park and Recreation certification desired

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

Knowledge and skills in the principles and practices of municipal recreation and administration, including planning, organizing, budgeting, leadership, supervision and evaluation.

Knowledge of recreation facility design and maintenance.

Knowledge of child and adult safety standards, youth physical and social development, senior citizens and aging, emergency procedures,

Knowledge of parks and recreation programs, services, laws and regulations.

Skill in planning and assessment, data analysis, and information management including electronic information systems.

Skill in grant writing and contract management.

Skill in interpersonal relations, marketing, outreach and networking.

Skill in oral and written communication and public presentations.

MINIMUM STANDARDS:

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS: The Supervisor assigns work in terms of department goals and objectives. The supervisor reviews work through conferences, reports, and observation of department activities.

GUIDELINES: Guidelines include City policies, Title III federal and state regulations, CBS/Adult Day Care state regulations, USDA Department of Early Care and Learning guidelines, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and fire and health regulations. These guidelines require judgment, selection, and interpretation in application.

COMPLEXITY: The work consists of varied duties related to assisting with directing and managing the programs, services, buildings, grounds and employees of the department. Working under stress, demanding deadlines, public expectations, and public safety issues and incidents contribute to the complexity of the position.

SCOPE AND EFFECT: The purpose of this position is to assist with directing and managing the programs, services, buildings, grounds and employees of the department. Successful performance helps ensure the provision of recreational services to citizens of the City of Savannah.

PERSONAL CONTACTS: Contacts are typically with co-workers, other City employees, senior citizens, youth, parents, neighborhood organizations, community groups, public housing personnel, county and school system personnel, and regional, state and federal agencies providing funding, training, regulatory authority or other guidance related to sports and recreation.

PURPOSE OF CONTACTS: Contacts are typically to give or exchange information, resolve problems, and provide services.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The work is typically performed while intermittently sitting, standing, stooping, or walking. The employee occasionally lifts light and heavy objects.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work is typically performed in an office or outdoors.

SUPERVISORY AND MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY: This position has direct supervision over personnel as assigned.