Director of Aquatics Programs

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund

Performance incentives

Professional development opportunities

Hybrid work schedule

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a visionary Director of Aquatics Programs in Centurion to lead strategy, operations, and growth of all aquatic facilities. This senior role oversees learn-to-swim, recreational classes, and competitive teams, with a focus on safety, engagement, and community impact.

The successful candidate will manage a diverse team, drive budgets, and ensure compliance with safety standards while embracing a hybrid work model blending on-site leadership with remote planning and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Recreation Management, Sports Science, Business Administration, or related field.
• 8+ years of progressive aquatics management experience, with at least 4 years in leadership.
• Current lifeguard certification and water safety instructor certifications mandatory.
• Proven budget management, program development, and staff supervision experience.
• Strong knowledge of aquatic facility operations, safety protocols, and compliance.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a strategic vision for aquatics programs, ensuring safety and user engagement.
• Oversee management and maintenance of all facilities, adhering to safety and hygiene standards.
• Manage budgets, financial performance, and resource allocation for the aquatics department.
• Develop innovative aquatic programming: learn-to-swim, fitness classes, competitive training.
• Recruit, train, and manage lifeguards, instructors, and aquatic staff.
• Ensure compliance with local, provincial, and national regulations.
• Build relationships with community groups, schools, and sports federations.
• Monitor trends to enhance offerings and efficiency.
• Manage risk and emergency response procedures.
• Promote aquatics activities to maximize Centurion participation.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Budget management

Staff supervision

Marketing/outreach

Water safety knowledge

Scheduling software

Management software

Reporting software

Education

Bachelor's degree in Recreation Management, Sports Science, Business Administration, or related field

Tools

Scheduling software

Management software

Reporting software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier leisure and sports organization based in **Centurion, Gauteng**, is seeking a visionary Director of Aquatics Programs to lead and expand their aquatic offerings. This senior leadership role is responsible for the strategic development, management, and operational oversight of all aquatics facilities and programs, including swim schools, competitive teams, and recreational activities. The ideal candidate will possess a strong blend of aquatic expertise, management acumen, and a passion for promoting water safety and fitness within the **Centurion** community. This position involves a hybrid work model, combining essential on-site oversight with strategic planning and administrative duties performed remotely.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a strategic vision for aquatics programs, ensuring high quality, safety, and user engagement.
• Oversee the management and maintenance of all aquatic facilities, adhering to strict safety and hygiene standards.
• Manage budgets, financial performance, and resource allocation for the aquatics department.
• Develop and implement innovative aquatic programming, including learn-to-swim, fitness classes, and competitive training.
• Recruit, train, and manage a team of qualified lifeguards, swim instructors, and aquatic staff.
• Ensure compliance with all local, provincial, and national regulations pertaining to aquatic operations and safety.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders, including community groups, schools, and sports federations.
• Monitor industry trends and best practices to enhance program offerings and operational efficiency.
• Manage risk and ensure appropriate emergency response procedures are in place and regularly reviewed.
• Promote aquatics activities and facilities to maximize membership and community participation in **Centurion**.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Recreation Management, Sports Science, Business Administration, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in aquatics management, with at least 4 years in a leadership capacity.
• Current lifeguard certification and water safety instructor certifications are mandatory.
• Proven experience in budget management, program development, and staff supervision.
• Strong knowledge of aquatic facility operations, maintenance, and safety protocols.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement successful marketing and outreach strategies.
• Experience in managing competitive swim teams or related aquatic sports is highly advantageous.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays, as required by operational needs.
• Proficiency in relevant software for scheduling, management, and reporting.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive executive salary, complemented by a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, a pension fund, and performance incentives.
• Professional development opportunities, including advanced certifications and conferences, are readily available.
• You'll have the opportunity to lead and innovate within a dynamic **Centurion**-based aquatic center, enjoying the benefits of a hybrid work schedule that supports both professional responsibilities and personal life.
• Become a key figure in promoting health, safety, and recreation in the **Gauteng** region.