Director of Aquatics & Competitive Swim Programs

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical benefits

Retirement plan contributions

Generous vacation policy

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 invites a visionary Director of Aquatics & Competitive Swim Programs to lead the growth of our client’s elite aquatic operations in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. You will shape strategy, supervise coaches, and drive high-performance programs across all age groups.

This senior role requires 8+ years in aquatics management, ASCA Level 3, strong budget oversight, and a passion for safety and excellence in competitive swimming.

Qualifications

• 8+ years in aquatics management with 4+ years in leadership, focused on competitive swimming.
• ASCA Level 3 or equivalent certification.
• Proven track record in developing competitive swimming programs.
• Budget management, staff supervision, and operational oversight experience.
• Lifeguard and First Aid/CPR certifications are mandatory.
• Degree in Sports Management, Kinesiology or related field is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Develop strategic plans for growth and excellence of the aquatics department, especially competitive swimming.
• Oversee day-to-day operations ensuring safety, cleanliness, and customer service.
• Lead, manage, and mentor a team of swim coaches and aquatic staff.
• Design training programs for competitive swimmers of all ages and abilities.
• Recruit and retain talent among swimmers and coaching staff.
• Manage the aquatics department budget for financial sustainability.
• Organize and oversee meets, clinics, learn-to-swim programs and events.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and facility regulations.
• Collaborate with marketing and sales to promote programs and memberships.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Coaching staff

Strategic planning

Health and safety

Education

Sports Management degree

Kinesiology degree

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier aquatic center located in Nelspruit , is seeking a visionary Director of Aquatics & Competitive Swim Programs. This senior leadership position is responsible for the strategic development, operational oversight, and high-performance management of all aquatic activities, with a strong emphasis on competitive swimming. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in managing aquatic facilities, developing elite swim programs, and leading coaching staff. You will be instrumental in fostering a culture of excellence, promoting aquatic safety, and ensuring the success of our competitive swimmers at all levels. Join our dedicated team in Nelspruit , Mpumalanga , and make a significant impact within the Leisure & Sports industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic plans for the growth and excellence of the aquatics department, particularly competitive swimming.
• Oversee all aspects of day-to-day aquatic operations, ensuring the highest standards of safety, cleanliness, and customer service.
• Lead, manage, and mentor a team of qualified swim coaches and aquatic staff.
• Design and execute comprehensive training programs for competitive swimmers of all age groups and abilities.
• Manage the recruitment and retention of talented swimmers and coaching staff.
• Develop and manage the aquatics department budget, ensuring financial sustainability and profitability.
• Organize and oversee swim meets, clinics, learn-to-swim programs, and other aquatic events.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and facility regulations.
• Collaborate with marketing and sales teams to promote aquatic programs and memberships.
• Stay current with trends in competitive swimming, coaching techniques, and aquatic facility management in Mpumalanga.

Requirements

• Minimum of 8 years of experience in aquatics management, with at least 4 years in a leadership role, preferably with a focus on competitive swimming.
• Relevant certifications such as ASCA (American Swimming Coaches Association) Level 3 or equivalent.
• Proven track record of developing successful competitive swimming programs and athletes.
• Strong understanding of swimming techniques, training methodologies, and sports science principles.
• Excellent leadership, communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated experience in budget management, staff supervision, and operational oversight.
• Lifeguard certification and First Aid/CPR qualifications are mandatory.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as needed in Nelspruit.
• A degree in Sports Management, Kinesiology, or a related field is highly advantageous.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications, along with an attractive performance-based bonus structure. Comprehensive medical benefits, retirement plan contributions, and a generous vacation policy are included. Opportunities for professional development, including advanced coaching certifications and attendance at industry conferences, will be provided. You will work within a state-of-the-art aquatic facility and lead a passionate team dedicated to aquatic excellence in the Leisure & Sports sector.