Regional Aquatics Director

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement benefits

Professional development

International conferences

Annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Regional Aquatics Director to lead and advance all aquatics programs across KwaZulu-Natal. Based in Richards Bay, you will drive safety, program development, and growth in membership while managing multiple facilities and staff teams.

You will set strategic direction, oversee budgets, ensure regulatory compliance, and collaborate with department heads to align aquatics with organizational goals. Extensive leadership, capital oversight, and a strong safety focus are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor-level degree in a related field (Recreation Management, Sports Science, or Business Administration).
• Advanced certifications in Lifeguarding and Aquatic Facility Management are essential.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic plans for regional aquatics programs across multiple sites.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and certifications for facilities and programs.
• Lead and develop aquatics staff including lifeguards, instructors, and coaches.
• Oversee maintenance and operation of regional facilities and water treatment systems.
• Manage annual aquatics budget and identify revenue opportunities.
• Create and promote innovative aquatics programs and events to attract participants.
• Collaborate with other departments to integrate aquatics into organizational goals.
• Monitor industry trends to enhance offerings and standards.
• Respond to emergencies and implement crisis management protocols.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Safety protocols

Program development

Staff management

Communications

Education

Bachelor's degree in Recreation Management

Bachelor's degree in Sports Science

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration

Tools

Aquatic facility management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent organization dedicated to promoting aquatic sports and recreational activities, is seeking a highly experienced and dynamic Regional Aquatics Director. This senior leadership role will be based in the picturesque coastal city of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , and will oversee all aquatics programs and facilities within the region. The ideal candidate will possess a deep expertise in aquatic management, safety protocols, program development, and staff leadership. This position is crucial for maintaining the highest standards of excellence in aquatic programming, ensuring participant safety, and driving growth in membership and participation. The role requires a strong presence at various regional facilities and a commitment to fostering a vibrant and safe aquatic environment. You will be responsible for setting the strategic direction for aquatics across multiple sites in the KwaZulu-Natal region.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic plans for all regional aquatics programs, including swimming lessons, competitive teams, and recreational activities.
• Ensure compliance with all local, provincial, and national safety regulations and certifications for aquatic facilities and programs.
• Manage, train, and supervise aquatics staff, including lifeguards, instructors, and coaches, fostering a culture of safety and professional development.
• Oversee the maintenance and operational efficiency of all regional aquatic facilities, including pools, equipment, and chemical treatment systems.
• Develop and manage the annual aquatics budget, ensuring financial responsibility and exploring revenue-generating opportunities.
• Create and promote innovative aquatics programs and events to attract new participants and retain existing members.
• Collaborate with other department heads and regional managers to integrate aquatics into broader organizational goals.
• Monitor aquatic industry trends and best practices to continually enhance program offerings and operational standards.
• Respond effectively to emergencies and implement crisis management protocols as needed.
• Represent the organization at regional meetings, conferences, and community events related to aquatics.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Recreation Management, Sports Science, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Advanced certifications in Lifeguarding and Aquatic Facility Management are essential.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in aquatics management, with at least 3 years in a director or senior supervisory role.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and managing aquatic programs for diverse age groups and skill levels.
• In-depth knowledge of pool operations, maintenance, water chemistry, and safety standards.
• Proven leadership and staff management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop teams.
• Strong financial acumen and experience managing budgets.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Certified Pool Operator (CPO) or equivalent certification is mandatory.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as required for facility operations and events in Richards Bay.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, reflecting the senior nature of this role.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement benefits are provided.
• Opportunities for advanced professional development and attendance at international aquatics conferences are available.
• Employees enjoy subsidized access to all company facilities and programs.
• A generous annual leave allowance and performance-based incentives are part of the compensation.
• The organization promotes a collaborative and supportive work environment, focused on excellence and innovation in aquatics.