Executive Director

GMP Consultants; Tacoma (WA); On-site; USD 221,000 - 286,000; Full time

Job summary

Parks Tacoma in Tacoma, WA, seeks an Executive Director to lead a world-class parks and recreation district. The role guides strategic direction, oversees operations, and partners with the Board to deliver programs across 2,900+ acres and 73 parks.

The ideal candidate has a proven track record in public leadership, strong interpersonal skills, and business acumen, with commitment to community engagement and staff development.

Qualifications

• Experience leading a complex parks and recreation organization.
• Strong interpersonal skills and business acumen.
• Ability to engage with community and staff.

Responsibilities

• Lead the executive team and oversee day-to-day operations.
• Oversee budgeting, fundraising, and program delivery.
• Engage with Board of Park Commissioners and community partners.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Stakeholder management

Communication

Education

Graduate degree in public administration or related field

Job description

View the Position Profile Salary Range: $220,500 – $285,500 annually DOQ Job Description Benefits # # #

Parks Tacoma is seeking an Executive Director for this special purpose district located south of Seattle in Tacoma, Washington. This CAPRA-accredited organization is nationally recognized for innovation and has an impressive portfolio that includes 70+ parks, four community centers, and two AZA-accredited zoos, as well as sports and recreation facilities. The District spans a diverse region—from dense urban neighborhoods and multicultural districts in Tacoma’s south end, to the city’s revitalized downtown core, Puget Sound beaches, and the forested foothills near Mount Rainier.

PARKS TACOMA

Located in Pierce County, Parks Tacoma’s service area encompasses a wide range of communities, including the City of Tacoma, portions of Browns Point and Dash Point, and Northwest Trek Wildlife Park near Eatonville. Parks Tacoma manages more than 2,900 acres, including 73 parks, 87 miles of trails, and 8.2 miles of public shoreline, along with community centers, pools, athletic facilities, playgrounds, gardens, and natural areas.

The system ranges from neighborhood parks to major regional destinations, including Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium and Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, both accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums. Parks Tacoma also operates Meadow Park Golf Course, the Tacoma Nature Center, Point Defiance Marina, W.W. Seymour Botanical Conservatory, and the American Alliance of Museums-accredited Fort Nisqually Living History Museum. Across the system, Parks Tacoma offers hundreds of programs and activities for residents of all ages and abilities.

The District is governed by a five-member Board of Park Commissioners elected to six-year terms. The Executive Director is appointed by the Park Board and serves as the agency’s chief executive officer, with responsibility for appointing the organization’s directors and officers. Parks Tacoma operates with a 2026 budget of $92.8 million, consisting of a $51.5 million General Fund and $41.3 million in Enterprise Funds. Staffing includes 410 FTEs and up to 750 part-time staff.

WHY APPLY

This is an excellent opportunity for an accomplished leader to guide a world-class, multifaceted parks and recreation organization into its next chapter. Parks Tacoma is looking for an Executive Director with experience guiding a committed and highly dedicated staff in the delivery of life-enriching park and recreation experiences. For a skilled leader with strong interpersonal skills, demonstrated business acumen, and a desire to become deeply engaged in a supportive and vibrant community, this is an exceptional opportunity to make a lasting impact.

For questions on this position, please contact:

Greg Young
GMP Consultants
[e-mail]
[phone]