NEW Director of Parks, Recreation & Public Property

A bachelor's degree in public administration, parks and recreation management, landscape architecture, or a related field is required. A master's degree and CPRP or CPRE certification are preferred. Qualified candidates will demonstrate:  

• Significant executive leadership experience in parks and recreation, public administration, or a related field serving a community of comparable complexity.
• Experience leading large, multidisciplinary organizations and managing substantial public-sector budgets.
• Success overseeing complex capital improvement projects from planning through completion.
• Strong strategic planning, organizational leadership, and change management skills.
• Proven ability to build collaborative partnerships with elected officials, community organizations, and stakeholders.
• Excellent communication, public engagement, and relationship-building abilities.

The City of Omaha is partnering with Potrero Group to recruit an exceptional leader to serve as our next Director of Parks, Recreation & Public Property. This executive leadership role offers the opportunity to shape the future of one of the Midwest’s largest park systems while advancing Omaha’s vision of becoming a Top 10 Parks City in the United States.

The Director provides strategic leadership for the planning, development, operation, and maintenance of Omaha’s parks, recreation programs, public properties, golf courses, aquatic facilities, urban forestry, and capital improvement projects. This position oversees a$66 million operating budget and leads a diverse workforce dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for Omaha residents.

Why Come to Omaha

Omaha is a vibrant, growing city that offers an exceptional quality of life, a strong sense of community, and a dynamic environment for innovation in public service. With a metropolitan population of nearly one million, Omaha combines the amenities of a major city with the accessibility and affordability of a mid-sized community.

The city is nationally recognized for its thriving arts and culture scene, award-winning zoo and aquarium, expanding riverfront development, and diverse neighborhoods. Omaha is also home to a robust philanthropic community and strong public-private partnerships that support ambitious civic projects, including significant investments in parks, trails, and public spaces.

Residents enjoy a low cost of living, excellent schools, and easy access to outdoor recreation, making Omaha an ideal place to live, work, and lead. For a parks and recreation professional, Omaha offers a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact in a city that is deeply committed to enhancing its public spaces and community well-being.

What You’ll Do

• Lead the strategic vision and daily operations of the Parks, Recreation & Public Property Department.
• Oversee the planning, development, and maintenance of parks, recreation facilities, public properties, natural areas, and citywide recreational programs.
• Direct major capital improvement projects, including the development of a new state-of-the-art sports complex.
• Manage a $66 million operating budget and lead a multidisciplinary workforce.
• Build and strengthen partnerships with community organizations, elected officials, philanthropic partners, and regional agencies.
• Champion equitable access to parks, recreation, and public spaces throughout Omaha.
• Represent the City before the Mayor, City Council, advisory boards, and the public.