Head Aquatics Manager

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid and retirement fund

Training and development opportunities

Access to facility amenities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Head Aquatics Manager in Rustenburg to lead the aquatics programs and operations across pools, water features, and related facilities.

You will supervise lifeguards, instructors, and programming staff, ensuring safety, quality, and engaging experiences for patrons and community members.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in aquatics management with at least 2 years in a supervisory role.
• Current Lifeguard Certification and CPR/First Aid Instructor certification are mandatory.
• Bachelor’s degree in Recreation Management, Sports Management, or related field preferred.
• Experience developing and managing aquatics programming for diverse age groups and abilities.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of all aquatics facilities, ensuring safety and cleanliness.
• Develop and manage a comprehensive schedule of aquatics programs including learn-to-swim, recreational, and fitness.
• Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate aquatics staff (lifeguards, instructors, coordinators).
• Ensure staff hold current certifications and follow safety protocols and emergency procedures.
• Manage aquatics budget, staffing, supplies, equipment, and maintenance costs for efficiency.
• Develop marketing strategies to boost participation in aquatics programs.
• Maintain records of attendance, participation, incidents, and transactions.
• Conduct facility inspections to ensure health, safety, and operational compliance.

Skills

Leadership

Program development

Staff supervision

Budget management

Communication

Risk management

Safety compliance

Education

Bachelor's degree in Recreation Management or related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading leisure and sports facility in **Rustenburg**, North West, is seeking a passionate and experienced Head Aquatics Manager to lead its diverse aquatics programs and operations. This role is central to providing a safe, engaging, and high-quality experience for all patrons utilizing our state-of-the-art aquatic facilities, including swimming pools, water parks, and associated amenities. The Head Aquatics Manager will be responsible for the overall management, supervision, and development of all aquatics activities, ensuring adherence to the highest standards of safety, operational efficiency, and customer service. This includes managing lifeguarding teams, swim instructors, and programming staff, as well as overseeing facility maintenance and compliance with all health and safety regulations. We are looking for a proactive leader with a proven track record in aquatics management, strong operational skills, and a commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive environment. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to a thriving community hub and shape the aquatics offering for residents and visitors. The role requires a deep understanding of pool operations, risk management, and staff development within a public-facing facility. A focus on innovation and program enhancement will be key to success in this role.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily operations of all aquatics facilities, ensuring a safe and clean environment for patrons and staff.
• Develop, implement, and manage a comprehensive schedule of aquatics programs, including learn-to-swim classes, recreational swimming, competitive team support, and fitness programs.
• Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate aquatics staff, including lifeguards, swim instructors, and program coordinators.
• Ensure all staff maintain current certifications and adhere to all safety protocols and emergency procedures.
• Manage the aquatics budget, including staffing, supplies, equipment, and maintenance costs, aiming for operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Develop and implement effective marketing and promotional strategies to increase participation in aquatics programs.
• Maintain detailed records of attendance, program participation, incident reports, and financial transactions.
• Conduct regular facility inspections to ensure compliance with health, safety, and operational standards, addressing any deficiencies promptly.

Requirements

• A minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in aquatics management, with at least 2 years in a supervisory role.
• Current Lifeguard Certification and CPR/First Aid Instructor certification are mandatory.
• Experience in developing and managing aquatics programming for diverse age groups and abilities.
• Strong knowledge of pool operations, water chemistry, safety regulations, and risk management.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with budget management and financial oversight.
• Bachelor’s degree in Recreation Management, Sports Management, or a related field is preferred.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunity to lead and innovate within a key leisure facility.
• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities.
• Access to facility amenities.
• A dynamic work environment in **Rustenburg**, North West.