A bachelor's degree in parks and recreation administration or a related field, from an accredited college or university, plus ten years of managerial or administrative experience in a comparably sized organization is required. A master's degree is preferred. Certified Parks and Recreation Professional (CPRP) preferred. Qualified candidates will be dynamic leaders who demonstrate a passion for development and maintenance of high quality parks and recreation programs and who convey a clear vision and direction that builds on the quality of Department staff, volunteers and amenities. Successful candidates must have experience managing staff of a comparably sized organization, working within established budget parameters and developing alternative revenue sources. Experience in electronic social networking and marketing is a plus. Must have strong writing, verbal and presentation skills and be comfortable working in a high profile public position.
Stafford County, Virginia, is ideally located along the Interstate 95 corridor just 40 miles south of Washington, DC and 50 miles north of Richmond. The County has a diverse population of over 164,000 residents and ranks as the third fastest growing county in Virginia.
The County is seeking a Director of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism to be responsible for the physical assets, revenues, programs, and services under the umbrella of the Department on a day-to-day basis. The Director serves as a key member of the County Administrator’s Leadership Team. The County operates a wide range of well-maintained and up to date facilities which include indoor and outdoor aquatics facilities, an eleven-rectangle athletic field complex, two community centers, public trails, picnicking areas, a beach along the Potomac River, two fishing lakes, three boat ramps and thirteen parks which are spread over 1,432 acres of publicly owned property. The Department operates with a budget of $11M and has an authorized full-time workforce of 42 employees supplemented by 132 part-time employees.
Leadership Opportunities
Building community awareness. Uses social media and effective marketing and public relations practices to promote the County’s park assets and recreational and cultural opportunities.
Maximizes funding sources. Identifies and obtains grants and new funding sources and leverages community resources to improve and expand access and quality of Stafford’s park and community service opportunities.
Develops new partnerships. Cultivates collaborative relationships to meet the parks, recreational and facility needs of Stafford County’s residents while increasing utilization of community programs and park amenities. This includes advancing shared services goals of the County and schools.
Prudent fiscal management. Effectively manages department resources by establishing department priorities and improving the efficiencies of department operations and programs.