Purpose

Grundy County, Tennessee is seeking a Director of Parks and Recreation.  This position reports to the Grundy County Mayor and is responsible for leading and managing parks and recreation in Grundy County, Tennessee and participating cities.  This position oversees strategic planning, budgeting, programming, facility operations and regulatory compliance while promoting Grundy County as a vibrant, active and welcoming community.  The Director supervises departmental staff, including full-time and part-time employees, contractors, and volunteers and ensures high-quality services aligned with Grundy County goals. 

Essential Functions

Directing and Managing the Department

Provide leadership and overall direction to all Parks and Recreation functions, including but not limited to operations, programming, park maintenance, and capital development.

Develop, implement, and enforce department policies, procedures, and goals in alignment with organization objectives and community needs.

Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations and manage risk across department operations.

Advisory Board & Community Meetings/Development

Serve as primary liaison to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board by preparing reports, presenting departmental updates, and facilitating strategic discussions.

Engage with community groups, neighborhood associations, and civic organizations to gather input and build partnerships that support departmental goals.

Represent the department at public meetings, board/commission meetings, and community forums to advocate for parks and recreation initiatives.

Coordinate with local schools, non-profits, and businesses on shared use agreements, sponsorships, and joint programs.

Strategy and Planning

Aid in development and implementation of long-term strategic plans, master plans, and capital improvement programs in coordination with other departments.

Conduct needs assessments and demographic analysis to anticipate future recreational and park space requirements.

Align department goals with the organization’s comprehensive plan and other strategic documents.

Budget/Financial Management

Prepare, present, and manage the annual department operating and capital budgets, ensuring fiscal responsibility and alignment with organization -wide financial goals.

Monitor expenditures, track revenues, and manage grant funding to support program growth and infrastructure investments.

Identify and pursue alternative funding sources, including grants, partnerships, and fundraising opportunities.

Oversee procurement processes, contracts, and vendor relationships in accordance with policies.

Staff/Personnel Development

Recruit and retain a diverse and skilled workforce, including full-time staff, seasonal employees, and volunteers.

Provide training, professional development, and performance evaluations to ensure employee growth and accountability.

Ensure compliance with HR policies, workplace safety regulations, and labor laws.

Qualifications

Knowledge of principles and practices of Public Recreation Management

Knowledge of principles and practices of Parks and Recreation Program Planning, Facility Management, and Community Event Coordination

Knowledge of principles and practices of County Budgeting, Purchasing Procedures, Capital Improvement Planning, and Financial Management

Knowledge of principles and practices of Strategic Planning and Development

Knowledge of principles and practices of Personnel Management

Knowledge of principles and practices of Safety Regulations, Legal Compliance Requirements, and Risk Management

Knowledge of principles and practices of Park Maintenance

Ability to Communicate effectively orally and in writing

Ability to Work Outdoors in all types of weather conditions, and withstand physically demanding work, such as lifting, bending, and hauling

Ability to Adapt to rapidly changing circumstances and community needs

Ability to Write and manage grants

Ability to build collaborative relationships with community partners, county leadership, and the public

Skilled in Verbal, written, & digital communications and public speaking/presentations

Skilled in Project management

Skilled in Conflict resolution and problem-solving with a results-oriented mindset

Proficiency with recreation management software, Microsoft Office Suite, and Social Media platforms

Strong Organization, leadership, and team management skills with ability to motivate and supervise a diverse workforce is required

Possession of a valid TN driver’s license

Education and Experience

Preference will be given to any candidate that has any combination of training and experience equivalent to:

Bachelor’s degree in Parks and Recreation or a related field

Five (5) years related management experience

Preferred certification as a Certified Parks and Recreation Professional (CPRP) or willingness to obtain within one year of hired

Grundy County, Tennessee desires an energetic and highly motivated individual with a passion for excellent performance. 

Grundy County, Tennessee provides a competitive salary and a benefit package that includes healthcare plans, paid time-off, paid holidays, and retirement.