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Water Country Operations Director

Herschend Family
Portsmouth, United Statesfull_timeVerifiedPosted 7 Jul 2026

About the role

Our story began 75 years ago when the Herschend family discovered wonder deep in an Ozark Mountain cave—and chose to share it with the world. Today, Herschend is the largest family-held themed attractions company, with over 40 leading attractions and immersive experiences that reach audiences worldwide.

While each brand offers something unique, all are united by a shared purpose: Bringing Families Closer Together by Creating Memories Worth Repeating®. Our passionate hosts make this purpose possible through everyday acts of love and service—what we call Heartspitality®—the intersection of heart and hospitality.

As an equal-opportunity employer, we strive to provide environments where every host, guest, and partner feel welcome, valued, and loved. We firmly believe that words and actions matter, which is why all individuals are to be treated equally and with respect. 

The Director of Operations provides strategic leadership and oversight for all park operations, ensuring the safe, efficient and exceptional delivery of guest experience across the organization. This role is responsible for directing and coordinating all operational departments, including attractions, aquatics, park services, parking, security, and first aid, while driving operational excellence, workforce performance and continuous improvement initiatives.

We are currently looking for a:

 

Water Country Operations Director

Roles & Responsibilities:

 

    Herschend is the world’s largest family-held themed attractions company, with a portfolio of over 40 family entertainment brands across North America, including destinations, resorts, theme parks, water parks, immersive experiences, and content enjoyed by audiences worldwide. 

     

    While each of our family brands offers something unique, all are united by a shared purpose: Bringing Families Closer Together by Creating Memories Worth Repeating®. Our 22,000 passionate hosts make this purpose possible through everyday acts of love and service—what we call Heartspitality®—the intersection of heart and hospitality. 

     

    As an equal-opportunity employer, we strive to provide environments where every host, guest, and partner feels welcome, valued, and loved. We firmly believe that words and actions matter, which is why all individuals are to be treated equally and with respect. For more information, visit www.hfecorp.com.  

    The Director of Operations provides strategic leadership and oversight for all park operations, ensuring the safe, efficient and exceptional delivery of guest experience across the organization. This role is responsible for directing and coordinating all operational departments, including attractions, aquatics, park services, parking, security, and first aid, while driving operational excellence, workforce performance and continuous improvement initiatives. 

     

    As the park’s senior operational leader and primary safety officer, the Director of Operations is also accountable for risk management, regulatory compliance and the development and execution of comprehensive safety programs while supporting the park’s overall business objectives. 

     

    Roles & Responsibilities 

    • Provide strategic leadership and oversight for all park operations, partnering with the General Manager to develop, implement and continuously improve operational procedures and performance standards 

    • Direct the operations leadership team, including the Aquatics Manager, ensuring effective recruitment, training, certification and performance management of lifeguard and operational staff in accordance with industry and regulatory standards 

    • Develop, implement, and maintain standard operating procedures, permits, inspections, operational checklists, communication systems and required signage for all attractions and facilities 

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    Company

    Herschend Family

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