Director of Aquatics and Recreation Programs

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement savings with employer match

Generous paid time off

Professional development opportunities

Discounts on facility rentals and 프로그램

Job summary

Placements24 in Rustenburg seeks a Director of Aquatics and Recreation Programs to lead all aquatic and recreational initiatives, ensuring safety, quality, and growth while serving a diverse community. The role requires strategic vision, hands-on leadership, and close collaboration with operations and marketing teams.

This position oversees staff development, budget planning, and program development, with focus on delivering high-quality swim and recreation services for residents.

Qualifications

• The candidate must hold a Bachelor's degree in a related field.
• Current Lifeguarding and CPR/First Aid certifications are mandatory.
• WSI certification or equivalent is required.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive aquatics and recreation program management experience, with at least 3 years in leadership.

Responsibilities

• Develop and evaluate innovative aquatics and recreational programs for all age groups.
• Oversee daily operations of aquatic facilities, pools, water parks, and related areas.
• Maintain top safety and cleanliness standards across all spaces.
• Recruit, train, schedule, and supervise lifeguards, swim instructors, and program staff.
• Develop and manage the annual budget for aquatics and recreation, including revenue and cost controls.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and aquatic regulations.
• Collaborate with marketing to promote programs and drive participation.
• Manage swim lesson programming from registration to curriculum and instructor certification.
• Build relationships with external partners, vendors, and community organizations.
• Respond to emergencies with proper protocols and conduct regular performance reviews.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Staff supervision

Communication

Problem-solving

Interpersonal skills

Relationship building

Education

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

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Recreation management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent community and sports complex located in Rustenburg, North West , is looking for an experienced and dynamic Director of Aquatics and Recreation Programs . This leadership role is pivotal in developing, implementing, and managing a comprehensive suite of aquatics and recreational programs designed to serve a diverse community. The Director will be responsible for ensuring the safety, quality, and growth of all aquatic activities, including swim lessons, team training, lifeguard services, and general pool operations. They will also oversee various recreational offerings, manage staff, control budgets, and ensure compliance with all health and safety regulations. This is a key leadership position within the Rustenburg facility, focused on enhancing community engagement and promoting healthy lifestyles.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and evaluate innovative and engaging aquatics and recreational programs for all age groups.
• Oversee the daily operations of the aquatic facilities, including pools, water parks, and associated areas.
• Ensure the highest standards of safety and cleanliness are maintained throughout all aquatic and recreational spaces.
• Recruit, train, schedule, and supervise a team of lifeguards, swim instructors, program coordinators, and other staff.
• Develop and manage the annual budget for aquatics and recreation, including revenue generation and expense control.
• Ensure compliance with all local, provincial, and national health, safety, and aquatic regulations.
• Collaborate with marketing and communications teams to promote programs and drive participation.
• Manage all aspects of swim lesson programming, from registration to curriculum development and instructor certification.
• Develop and manage relationships with external partners, vendors, and community organizations.
• Respond effectively to emergencies and incidents, ensuring appropriate protocols are followed.
• Conduct regular performance reviews for all direct reports.
• Stay updated on industry best practices, emerging trends, and new program opportunities.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Recreation Management, Sports Management, Kinesiology, or a related field.
• Current Lifeguarding and CPR/First Aid certifications are mandatory.
• WSI (Water Safety Instructor) certification or equivalent required.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in aquatics and recreation program management, with at least 3 years in a leadership or supervisory capacity.
• Proven experience in budget management, staff supervision, and program development.
• Strong knowledge of aquatic facility operations, safety protocols, and risk management.
• Excellent leadership, communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to develop and maintain strong relationships with staff, patrons, and community stakeholders in Rustenburg.
• Demonstrated ability to create and implement successful community-based recreational programs.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and recreation management software.
• Flexible schedule, including availability on evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, commensurate with experience and qualifications. This position includes comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, a retirement savings plan with employer matching, and generous paid time off. Opportunities for professional development, including certifications and attendance at industry conferences, are provided. Employees also benefit from discounts on facility rentals, programs, and merchandise. This is a unique opportunity to lead vital community services in Rustenburg and make a significant impact on the well-being of its residents. A performance-based bonus structure is also in place. Join a dedicated team committed to excellence in community recreation.