JOB TITLE: Executive Director of Parks & Recreation
DEPARTMENT: Parks & Recreation
FLSA STATUS: Exempt
EMPLOYMENT TYPE: Full-Time
GRADE: M
REPORTS TO: Mayor and Recreation and Parks Board

Learn More and Apply: https://www.jacksontn.gov/Government/Departments/Human_Resources/Career_Opportunities

Career Opportunities - City of Jackson, TN

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Executive Director of Parks & Recreation serves as the strategic and operational leader of the City’s parks system, recreation programs, and community facilities.

This role is responsible for setting a clear vision for the department, aligning resources to that vision, and ensuring consistent execution across all divisions. The Executive Director must be able to think long-term about where the system is going, while also staying grounded in day-to-day operations.

Success in this role requires strong leadership, financial discipline, operational awareness, and the ability to translate community needs into real, visible outcomes.

SCOPE OF RESPONSIBILITY

The Executive Director oversees all parks, recreation programs, and facilities, including but not limited to:

• Athletics and programming
• Community centers and senior services
• Nature park and outdoor assets
• Sportsplex, tennis, and golf facilities
• City parks, greenways, and open spaces

This position leads division heads and is accountable for the overall performance of the department.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Leadership

• Set a clear, long-term vision for parks and recreation aligned with City priorities and community needs
• Establish measurable goals and hold division leaders accountable for results
• Identify gaps in services, facilities, and programming, and develop plans to address them
• Drive a culture of ownership, responsiveness, and continuous improvement

Operations & Execution

• Oversee daily operations across all divisions and facilities
• Ensure consistent, high-quality service delivery across the entire system
• Stay connected to field operations, not just administrative functions
• Identify operational issues early and take corrective action

Financial Management

• Develop and manage operating and capital budgets
• Monitor performance throughout the year and adjust as needed
• Ensure strong fiscal controls and responsible use of public funds
• Identify and pursue alternative funding sources, including grants and partnerships

Capital Planning & Project Oversight

• Lead planning and execution of capital improvements across parks and facilities
• Coordinate with Public Works and other departments on maintenance and infrastructure
• Oversee contracts, bid processes, and project delivery
• Ensure projects are completed on time, within scope, and within budget

Programs & Community Impact

• Oversee development and evaluation of recreation programs across all age groups
• Use participation data and community feedback to guide decisions
• Ensure programs are accessible, relevant, and aligned with community needs
• Build partnerships with schools, nonprofits, and community organizations

Public Engagement & Accountability

• Respond to citizen concerns in a timely and professional manner
• Maintain visibility in the community and actively seek feedback
• Communicate clearly with the Mayor, Board, and City Council
• Provide regular updates on performance, challenges, and progress

GOVERNANCE

• Attend and report at Parks & Recreation Board meetings
• Provide an annual report to city council and Parks and Recreation Board outlining performance, outcomes, and priorities
• Serve as liaison to boards, commissions, and partner agencies as assigned
• Coordinate with other City departments on shared initiatives

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Parks & Recreation, Public Administration, or related field
• Master’s degree preferred

Experience

• Minimum five (5) years of progressively responsible leadership experience
• At least three (3) years managing teams and operations
• Experience managing budgets and overseeing multi-site operations
• Experience with capital projects strongly preferred

Licenses

• Valid Driver’s License
• CPRP or similar certification preferred

WHAT THIS ROLE REQUIRES

• Ability to think strategically while staying grounded in operations
• Strong leadership presence and accountability mindset
• Financial discipline and comfort managing public funds
• Willingness to make decisions and own outcomes
• Strong communication skills with both internal teams and the public

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Combination of office and field work across City facilities
  • Noise level is generally quiet in the office and moderate to loud when in the field or at events
• Regular site visits required
• Occasional exposure to outdoor conditions
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds