Director of Aquatics and Recreation

Placements24; Durban; Presencial; ZAR 1.200.000 - 2.000.000; Jornada completa

Ventajas ofrecidas por este puesto de trabajo

Competitive salary

Bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement contributions

Paid time off

Staff discounts on resort amenities

Descripción de la vacante

Placements24, on behalf of a leading Durban resort, seeks an experienced Director of Aquatics and Recreation to provide strategic leadership and oversee all aquatics, fitness, and recreational programs.

The role requires managing pools and aquatic facilities, leading lifeguards, instructors, and trainers; developing programs, ensuring safety and regulatory compliance; managing budgets, staff scheduling, and guest satisfaction.

Formación

• Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, Recreation Management, Sports Management or related field.
• Master’s degree is a plus.
• 6+ years in progressive management roles in aquatics, recreation, or leisure operations (resort/hotel preferred).
• Current lifeguard certification and Water Safety Instructor (WSI) certifications mandatory.
• Experience in facility management, pool operations, and maintenance.
• Strong leadership, communication, and budgeting skills.

Responsabilidades

• Develop and implement a strategic plan for aquatics, fitness, and recreational services aligned with resort objectives.
• Oversee daily operations of aquatic facilities, pools, water features, and amenities.
• Lead lifeguards, swim instructors, fitness trainers, and recreation staff.
• Create and deliver innovative recreational programs for guests of all ages.
• Ensure health, safety, and sanitation regulations are strictly followed.
• Manage budgets, financial performance, and cost control measures.
• Develop staffing schedules, training, and performance management for direct reports.
• Foster guest relationships and resolve concerns to maintain high satisfaction.
• Collaborate with other departments to enhance guest experience and operations.
• Stay updated on industry trends and best practices.

Conocimientos

Leadership

Budgeting & P&L

Staff supervision

Communication

Customer service

Facility management

Program development

Water Safety Instructor (WSI)

Lifeguard certification

Hospitality industry experience

Educación

Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Recreation Management, Sports Management

Master's degree (a plus)

Herramientas

Budgeting software

Descripción del empleo

About the Role

Our client, a leading resort and leisure establishment in Durban , seeks an experienced Director of Aquatics and Recreation. This executive role is responsible for the strategic leadership, management, and overall success of all aquatics, fitness, and recreational programs. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in facility management, program development, and staff supervision within a high-volume, guest-focused environment. You will play a critical role in enhancing guest experiences, ensuring operational efficiency, and contributing to the profitability of the resort's leisure offerings in KwaZulu-Natal . This is a demanding yet incredibly rewarding position for a visionary leader in the hospitality and sports sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive strategic plan for aquatics, fitness, and recreational services, ensuring alignment with resort objectives.
• Oversee the daily operations of all aquatic facilities, including pools, water parks, and associated amenities.
• Manage and lead a diverse team of lifeguards, swim instructors, fitness trainers, and recreation staff.
• Create, market, and deliver innovative recreational programs and activities for resort guests of all ages.
• Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, and sanitation regulations and standards for aquatic and recreational areas.
• Manage departmental budgets, financial performance, and cost control measures effectively.
• Develop and implement effective staffing schedules, training programs, and performance management systems for all direct reports.
• Foster strong relationships with guests, addressing concerns and ensuring high levels of satisfaction.
• Collaborate with other resort departments to enhance overall guest experience and operational synergy.
• Stay current with industry best practices, emerging trends, and competitive offerings in aquatics and recreation management.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Recreation Management, Sports Management, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 6 years of progressive management experience in aquatics, recreation, or leisure operations, preferably within a resort or hotel setting.
• Current lifeguard certification and Water Safety Instructor (WSI) certification are mandatory.
• Proven experience in facility management, including pool operations and maintenance.
• Strong leadership, team-building, and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication, customer service, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated financial management skills, including budget development and P&L responsibility.
• Experience with event planning and program development for diverse demographics.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays, to meet operational needs.

Benefits

• competitive annual salary
• performance bonuses
• medical aid
• retirement contributions
• paid time off
• significant discounts on resort amenities
• dining
• accommodation
• Opportunities for continuous professional development and career advancement within a renowned hospitality group are provided.

Our client offers a comprehensive compensation package including a competitive annual salary, performance bonuses, and a full suite of benefits such as medical aid, retirement contributions, and paid time off. Employees receive significant discounts on resort amenities, dining, and accommodation. Opportunities for continuous professional development and career advancement within a renowned hospitality group are provided. This position is based in the vibrant coastal city of Durban , South Africa , offering a unique lifestyle and professional setting.