SUMMARY:

We are seeking an innovative and dynamic leader who is passionate about Parks and Recreation and building community. The City of Columbus, Indiana Parks and Recreation Department has played an integral role in making Columbus the “best city of its size” in the United States. Our goal is to provide world-class quality of life amenities and programs to further strengthen our Columbus community. The Director administrates and supervises all areas of the Parks and Recreation Department. Each area has an Associate Director who is responsible to carry out the mission of the department and making sure the day to day functions are completed according to policy and procedures established by the Parks and Recreation Board.
The Director is responsible for developing a department mission and vision that reflects the desires of the Parks and Recreation Board, City Administration and the community. Upcoming projects that will further the mission of the department include implementation of the Columbus 2030 Masterplan, developing a Parks 5-Year Masterplan, and a Donner Park and Aquatics Center Masterplan.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

1. Bachelor’s Degree and considerable experience working with budgeting programs, strategic leadership, park development, or equivalent combination of education and experience can be substituted; and
2. CPRP (Certified Parks and Recreation Professional) certification or alternatively an advance
   degree preferred. The CPRP certification must be obtained within two years of employment with the City;
3. Valid Indiana driver’s license or ability to convert out-of-state driver’s license to an Indiana driver’s license within 60 days of employment, maintaining driver’s license in good standing is required at all times, and maintaining good driving sufficient to be a driver covered by City Insurance is required, as the Parks department has several locations and city parks and the Parks Director frequently visits all locations.
4. Minimum 2 years of experience managing a team;
5. Minimum 2 years of experience managing projects

1. Responsible for the administration and supervision of the department within the policies, procedures, and mission established and approved by the Parks and Recreation Board.
2. Leads the department in the development and implementation of any master planning efforts, most immediately inclusive of its 5-year Master Plan, the upcoming Donner Park/ Donner Center Masterplan, and implementation of the Columbus 2030 Strategic Plan as the Plan relates to parks and recreation.
3. Oversees the development of the annual operating and capital improvement budgets for
4. approval by the Parks and Recreation Board, Mayor, and City Council. Responsible to see that the department stays within city budget guidelines.
5. Responsible to develop and maintain relationships and contacts with community leaders, city and county government officials, business, economic development leaders and private and community foundations.
6. Represents the department on various community committees and serves as the key person in
7. maintaining good relationships with all collaborative partners.
8. Responsible for the training and development of people within the organization.
9. Serves as the key person in the community promoting the benefits of parks and recreation.
10. Provides leadership and vision for the department and the community.
11. Fosters a positive and inclusive workplace culture.
12. Promotes professional development and succession planning.
13. Ensure programs and services are inclusive, equitable, and reflective of community demographics and interests.
14. Serves on the Columbus Park Foundation (CPF) and works to support the CPF mission.
15. Responsible to keep department and staff up-to-date with professional training and education through involvement in state and national park and recreation associations.
16. Keep the Parks and Recreation Board and staff informed of industry “best practices” and current trends in parks and recreation management.
17. Meets monthly with Executive Director of Administration.
18. Attend monthly Department Head meetings and occasional off-site meetings.
19. Serves as a Mill Race Center Board member and updates City Administration and Parks Board regularly regarding Mill Race Center.
20. Serves as NexusParkCDC liaison and coordinates with NexusParkCDC.
21. Development and implementation of emergency plan procedures and training for Parks employees in coordination with the Director of Security and Risk.
22. Perform other duties as needed and directed by the Parks and Recreation Board.