Director of Leisure and Recreation Services

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive benefits package

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Director of Leisure and Recreation Services in Sandton, Gauteng. This hybrid executive role balances on-site leadership with remote strategic planning to oversee a portfolio of sports centers, parks, and community programs.

The ideal candidate has a Master’s in Recreation/Sports Management or related field, 8+ years in leisure management with 3+ in senior leadership, and strong financial, operational, and stakeholder skills to drive community well-being.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Recreation Management, Sports Management, MBA, or related field.
• Minimum 8 years in leisure and recreation services management, with at least 3 in senior leadership.
• Proven skills in strategic planning, financial management, and operations oversight.
• Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement abilities.
• Experience balancing on-site leadership with hybrid/remote strategic planning.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic plans for growth and sustainability.
• Oversee daily operations of facilities and programs.
• Manage budgets, financial performance, and revenue initiatives.
• Lead and mentor a team of managers and staff.
• Ensure safety, service quality, and facility maintenance.
• Engage with government bodies, communities, and stakeholders.
• Develop marketing strategies to boost participation.
• Ensure regulatory compliance.
• Champion health, wellness, and community cohesion.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Financial management

Budget oversight

Team development

Communication

Customer service focus

Education

Master's degree in Recreation Management or related field

Tools

Facility management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent organization managing diverse leisure and recreational facilities, seeks an experienced and visionary Director of Leisure and Recreation Services for their operations in Sandton, Gauteng. This senior leadership role is responsible for the strategic planning, development, and operational oversight of a comprehensive portfolio of services, including sports centers, parks, and community recreational programs. You will drive innovation, ensure service excellence, and foster community engagement to enhance the quality of life for residents. The ideal candidate possesses extensive experience in leisure management, a strong business acumen, and exceptional leadership skills. This Hybrid position requires significant on-site management and community interaction, complemented by remote work for strategic planning and administrative duties.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic plans for the growth and sustainability of leisure and recreation services.
• Oversee the day-to-day operations of all managed facilities and programs.
• Manage budgets, financial performance, and revenue generation initiatives.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of managers and operational staff.
• Ensure the highest standards of customer service, safety, and facility maintenance.
• Identify and pursue opportunities for program development and expansion to meet community needs.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with local government bodies, community groups, and stakeholders.
• Develop and implement marketing and promotional strategies to increase participation and awareness.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and policies.
• Champion initiatives that promote health, wellness, and community cohesion through recreation.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Recreation Management, Sports Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in leisure and recreation services management, with at least 3 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven track record in strategic planning, financial management, and operational oversight.
• Strong understanding of current trends and best practices in the leisure and recreation industry.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage budgets, control costs, and drive revenue.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement and partnership development.
• Proficiency in relevant software and technologies for facility and program management.
• Passion for community service and improving public well-being.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid model, balancing on-site and remote responsibilities in Sandton.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and executive benefits package.
• Significant opportunity to shape and lead major leisure initiatives in Sandton.
• Professional development and leadership training opportunities.
• Work within a respected organization dedicated to community well-being.
• Collaborate with a network of influential stakeholders in Gauteng.
• A rewarding career contributing to public health and quality of life.