Aquatics Centre Director

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration package

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Paid time off

Professional development opportunities

Facility access

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an Aquatics Centre Director in Pietermaritzburg to provide strategic leadership for a state-of-the-art facility. You will drive program development, safety standards, and community engagement, leading a diverse team of lifeguards, instructors, coaches, and staff.

The role emphasizes financial performance, operational efficiency, and strategic partnerships with schools and community groups to grow participation and facility usage.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Sports Management, Recreation Management, Business Administration, or related field.
• Master’s degree an advantage.
• 7 years in managing aquatic facilities or similar operations; 3 years senior leadership.
• Certifications: Lifesaving, CPR, First Aid, pool operator training.
• Proven leadership and staff motivation ability.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic plans for the aquatics centre.
• Oversee day-to-day operations, pool management, safety, maintenance.
• Lead lifeguards, instructors, coaches, and admin staff.
• Develop and manage aquatic programs: lessons, teams, water aerobics, recreation.
• Ensure health, safety, emergency procedures; water quality; hygiene.
• Manage budget, revenue, expenses, capex.
• Engage with community groups, schools, stakeholders.
• Procurement and maintenance of equipment.
• Handle member inquiries and maintain service.
• Implement membership growth and retention strategies.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Financial management

Team management

Communication

Marketing

Education

Bachelor’s degree in related field

Master’s degree an advantage

Tools

Scheduling software

Financial management tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent leisure and sports provider in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, is seeking an experienced and visionary Aquatics Centre Director. This senior management position is responsible for the overall strategic direction, operational efficiency, and financial performance of their state-of-the-art aquatics facility. The Director will lead a dedicated team, drive program development, ensure the highest safety standards, and foster community engagement through a comprehensive range of aquatic activities. This is a critical role for an individual passionate about swimming, water safety, and community development within Pietermaritzburg. The ideal candidate will bring a blend of strong leadership, operational acumen, and a deep understanding of aquatics programming.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic plans for the aquatics centre, focusing on program innovation, member satisfaction, and financial sustainability.


• Oversee all day-to-day operations of the aquatics facility, including pool management, safety protocols, and facility maintenance.


• Manage and lead a diverse team of lifeguards, instructors, swim coaches, and administrative staff, fostering a positive and high-performance work environment.


• Develop, market, and manage a wide array of aquatic programs, including swimming lessons, competitive swim teams, water aerobics, and recreational activities.


• Ensure strict compliance with all health, safety, and emergency procedures, maintaining the highest standards of water quality and facility hygiene.


• Manage the aquatics centre budget, including revenue generation, expense control, and capital expenditure planning.


• Build and maintain strong relationships with community groups, schools, and other stakeholders to enhance program participation and facility utilization.


• Oversee the procurement and maintenance of all aquatic equipment and supplies.


• Act as the primary point of contact for member inquiries and concerns, ensuring exceptional customer service.


• Implement and monitor membership growth strategies and retention initiatives.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Sports Management, Recreation Management, Business Administration, or a related field.


• A Master's degree is an advantage.


• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in managing aquatic facilities or similar recreational operations, with at least 3 years in a senior leadership role.


• Demonstrated experience in strategic planning, financial management, and program development within the aquatics sector.


• Current certifications in Lifesaving, CPR, First Aid, and pool operator training are essential.


• Additional coaching or instructor certifications are highly desirable.


• Proven ability to lead and motivate diverse teams.


• Excellent communication, public relations, and problem-solving skills.


• Experience in marketing and promoting recreational programs.


• Familiarity with Pietermaritzburg's community and sports scene is a plus.


• Proficiency in relevant software, including scheduling and financial management tools.

Benefits

• This position offers a highly competitive remuneration package, including a substantial base salary, performance-based incentives, and comprehensive benefits such as medical aid, a retirement fund, and paid time off.


• Opportunities for professional development, including advanced certifications and conference attendance, are provided.


• Employees enjoy access to the aquatics facility for personal use and can participate in various wellness programs.


• Join a forward-thinking organization dedicated to promoting health and fitness in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal.