Parks and Recreation Director

The City of Elgin seeks an experienced leader with a proven track record in parks and recreation. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong leadership, financial acumen and strategic planning abilities.

1. Extensive experience in parks and recreation management, public administration, or related fields, with key leadership experience in managing a department or large agency.
2. Demonstrated success in budget and fiscal management, including experience in capital project planning, budget development and securing funding from various sources.
3. A leader with integrity, strong communication skills and the ability to build relationships at all levels within the organization and with external stakeholders.
4. Proficiency in human resource management, with excellent interpersonal and communication skills, fostering a collaborative work environment.
5. Proven experience in developing and maintaining strong intergovernmental relationships and partnerships with community organizations.
6. A management style that emphasizes collaboration, teamwork and the professional development of staff.
7. Strong knowledge of current trends in parks and recreation, including creative financing options, marketing strategies and community engagement.
8. Extensive experience in comprehensive planning, with the ability to assess community needs, research innovative concepts and drive improvements in departmental operations and long-range planning.
9. Demonstrated ability to secure external funding through grants, partnerships and other sources to support departmental initiatives and capital projects.
10. Experience and dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and workplace practices that promote an inclusive environment.

The City of Elgin is seeking an experienced and visionary leader to serve as its next Parks and Recreation Director. This key leadership position reports directly to the City Manager and will be instrumental in overseeing the development and management of the city’s expansive recreational services. The Parks and Recreation Director will be responsible for a large department, managing a diverse portfolio that includes parks, golf courses, sports complexes and recreational programs.

The ideal candidate will have a passion for community engagement and a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for all residents. They will lead strategic planning, fiscal management and collaborate with city leadership to ensure that Elgin’s parks and recreational offerings meet the evolving needs of its growing and diverse population. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of recreation in a thriving city that values inclusivity, innovation and an active, healthy lifestyle.