Senior Director, Recreation & Leisure Services

City of Savannah•Savannah, GA

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The City of Savannah is seeking an innovative, strategic, and community-centered executive to serve as its next Senior Director of Recreation & Leisure Services. This is more than a department director position—it's an opportunity to shape the experiences that define quality of life for nearly every Savannah resident. From youth athletics and aquatics to senior services, therapeutic recreation, community events, and neighborhood recreation centers, the Recreation & Leisure Services Department serves as a cornerstone of a vibrant, healthy, and connected community. The Senior Director will provide visionary leadership for a diverse organization while fostering a culture built on accountability, collaboration, innovation, and exceptional public service. This executive will work closely with the Chief of Community Services, City Manager, key City Departments, community partners, and staff to advance the City's strategic priorities and deliver meaningful recreation opportunities for residents of all ages and abilities. The ideal candidate is a visible and engaged leader who is equally comfortable developing long-term strategies, mentoring leaders, analyzing performance data, building community partnerships, and rolling up their sleeves to help solve complex operational challenges.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in Recreation Administration, Public Administration, or a closely related field.
Six (6) years of progressively responsible management or executive leadership experience in community recreation, parks and recreation, municipal operations, or a related public service environment.
An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered.
Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record or ability to obtain one.

Nice To Haves

Master's Degree preferred.
Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) certification preferred.

Responsibilities

Provide executive leadership for the Recreation & Leisure Services Department while aligning departmental priorities with the City's Strategic Plan.
Inspire, coach, and develop division leaders while building a culture of accountability, collaboration, continuous improvement, and professional growth.
Lead with presence—remaining visible throughout the organization, actively supporting staff, and engaging with residents and community stakeholders.
Develop and execute long-range strategic initiatives that enhance recreation services, facilities, and community impact.
Oversee all departmental operations, including recreation programming, aquatics, athletics, therapeutic recreation, youth services, senior services, and community events.
Direct the planning, maintenance, and lifecycle management of recreation facilities and aquatic amenities in partnership with other City departments.
Manage the department's operating and capital budgets while ensuring responsible stewardship of public resources.
Lead grant development, contract administration, revenue-generating initiatives, and long-term capital planning.
Establish meaningful Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and use both quantitative data and qualitative community feedback to evaluate performance and improve services.
Champion accessibility, equity, safety, regulatory compliance, and outstanding customer service across every division.
Build trusted relationships with schools, nonprofit organizations, athletic associations, neighborhood groups, governmental agencies, and community partners.
Advise the Chief of Community Services, the City Manager, and key executive leadership on recreation policy, funding opportunities, operational priorities, and emerging industry trends, and present to City Council as needed.
Lead organizational change initiatives that position the department for long-term success and sustainability.
Performs other related duties as assigned.