Sports & Youth Services Division Chief

City of Gaithersburg•Gaithersburg, MD

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

The City of Gaithersburg Department of Parks, Recreation & Culture is seeking an experienced professional to lead and direct the Sports & Youth Services Division. This is a highly responsible leadership position that provides direct management oversight to this multi-functional team which encourages active play through organized sports and promotes positive youth development. The Sports & Youth Services Division Chief provides vision and direction and is directly responsible for planning, development, execution, and evaluation of all programs, activities, events, and facilities related to sports programs for all ages and abilities; fun, safe, and enriching after-school and weekend activities to benefit youth through recreation, mentoring, leadership, and support; the City's summer camp program for children ages 5 through 14; two youth centers which provide after-school, weekend, and summer activities for middle and high school aged youth; and a skate park facility providing a unique recreational opportunity for in-line skaters, BMX bikes, and skateboarders. The Division Chief oversees key functions of the Division and its staff and is accountable for ensuring that services and programs within these areas/facilities are well-programmed, safe, welcoming, further the Department's goals and objectives, align with the Department's and City's vision and strategic directions, and consistently meet the highest quality and standards to serve the City's residents, visitors, and community members. The ideal candidate will be a proven effective communicator with outstanding people skills, as the position requires extensive contact with program participants and their family members, City staff and officials, and the general public. Customer service inside and outside the organization will be a top priority, with special emphasis on the delivery of programs and services to the public. The Division Chief will be an innovative and creative leader who will bring a fresh perspective as well as exceptional leadership and management skills to the position. Good judgment and common sense are essential. We're looking for an individual who will be an excellent day-to-day manager who can keep operations running smoothly and anticipate problems before they develop, while also taking time to consider the future. The successful candidate will excel at bringing out the best in people, recognizing and mentoring talent, and creating an environment of collaboration and partnership.

Requirements

A strong background in management and supervision of comparable recreation/leisure services, facilities, programs, and staff and a successful track record in program and service delivery.
Proven ability to fully engage in day-to-day operations as well as to step outside the box and think about the big picture.
Multi-faceted organizational abilities to concurrently manage a variety of programs and budgets and to juggle competing priorities.
Excellent interpersonal, analytical, problem-solving, presentation, and written and verbal communication skills and the ability to effectively collaborate with multiple internal and external stakeholders.
An understanding of the needs of an ethnically and economically diverse community.
A proven track record as an innovative leader with the ability to educate, motivate, and develop staff to achieve their highest potential and to encourage creative and innovative approaches and ideas to promote expanded recreational opportunities.
A Bachelor's Degree in Recreation, Leisure Studies, Physical Education, or related field.
At least 7 years of relevant experience in organized community recreation programs, including at least 4 years in a management or responsible supervisory capacity.
A valid driver's license and safe driving record.
CPR/AED and First Aid certification (may be obtained through the City upon hire).
Or any acceptable equivalent combination of education, experience, and training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to satisfactorily perform job duties.

Nice To Haves

Certified Parks & Recreation Professional (CPRP) or other relevant professional designation preferred.

Responsibilities

Oversee, direct, coordinate, manage, and participate in work related to sports and youth services programs, summer camps, recreational facilities (youth centers and skate park), and other programs, activities, and events.
Lead and manage day-to-day operations, budgetary preparations, fiscal and performance measure monitoring, work assignments and priorities, projects, and programming.
Supervise all personnel administration functions.
Monitor and evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of operational performance including service delivery methods and procedures; identify opportunities for improvement; recommend appropriate services and staffing levels.
Manage and participate in the development and implementation of short- and long-term goals, objectives, policies, and priorities for assigned programs.
Engage with community groups and individuals to exchange information regarding interests, needs, and available and future programming.
Represent the City and the Department in a variety of public settings.
Provide outstanding service, pursue continuous improvement, and exceed expectations.