Director of Park Operations

The Director of Park Operations is a key leadership position responsible for overseeing the Park Operations Department of a large, multi-jurisdictional regional park organization. This position reports directly to the Executive Director with considerable latitude for independent judgment and strategic decision-making while serving as a vital member of the senior leadership team. This position is responsible for the full management of park operations, including recreational facilities, public programming, special events, natural and cultural resource stewardship, park maintenance, and revenue generation. A strong commitment to collaboration, innovation, and creative problem-solving is essential, along with a deep understanding of park and facility operations. This position oversees a large and diverse team and must inspire excellence, foster teamwork, and ensure operational efficiency and effectiveness across the system. The NOVA Parks system is unique in many ways, one of which is that it is nearly 90% self-funded through revenue generating operations.  Hiring Salary Range:  $130,000 - $175,000

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (with illustrative examples of work)  

Oversee management of personnel:  

• Plan, direct, and supervise the work of park management staff in the operation, management, maintenance, and oversight of park facilities, grounds, and equipment.
• Review and approve the hiring of all new full-time staff.
• Review and approve employee salary increases and transfers.
• Develop and implement performance standards and key indicators and evaluate performance of management personnel against those standards.
• Conduct meetings and training for operations management staff to address and resolve challenges, communicate updates, and promote coordination and effective communication.
• Ensure adherence to fair and equitable employment practices.

Develop operations budget and oversee implementation:  

• Oversee the preparation and administration of the annual operating budget for the department.
• Assist in the planning and review of capital projects and assist in the development of the capital budget.
• Develop and implement innovative strategies to enhance and maintain revenue production.
• Monitor and approve spending to align with the approved operations budget.
• Identify and pursue alternative funding sources, including grants, donations, sponsorships, and volunteer support initiatives.

Oversee management of park facilities and programs: 

• Regularly inspect park facilities to ensure conformance with NOVA Parks policies, procedures, and standards.
• Identify operational needs, challenges, and opportunities and initiate timely and effective actions.
• Develop, prepare, and execute park operations contracts and permits for park operations and services.
• Develop, implement, and oversee maintenance programs.
• Assist with the effective marketing and promotion of park sites, services, and operations to enhance offerings and revenue generation.

Establish and maintain positive public relations program: 

• Promote a positive image for NOVA Parks through effective maintenance and operations.
• Effectively communicate with the public, stakeholders, and special interest groups through presentations, meetings, and other outreach efforts.
• Maintain strong relationships with vendors, local law enforcement, and community groups.
• Engage with public officials and administrators on issues related to NOVA Parks funding, park management, and cooperative community projects.

Develop and implement management and operational procedures for new/existing facilities: 

• Establish and implement operational procedures to meet NOVA Parks policies and standards.
• Routinely review existing policies and procedures; recommend and implement updates and changes that align with NOVA Parks goals.
• Determine the needs of the public and communicate those needs when developing department objectives.
• Develop, recommend, and coordinate the implementation of strategic plan goals and operational objectives.

Perform administrative duties: 

• Interpret, apply, and adapt NOVA Parks policies, regulations, and procedures to effectively support personnel, budget, property oversight, and general park operations.
• Attend NOVA Parks board meetings; prepare and present reports and recommendations.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS (minimum)  

Education:  Graduation from an accredited college/university with a bachelor's degree.

Physical:  Non-manual and manual work with strength and dexterity nece