Senior Aquatic Centre Director

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Incentives & bonuses

Medical, dental & vision insurance

Paid time off

Professional development

Relocation assistance

Employee assistance program

Job summary

Placements24 invites applications for a visionary Senior Aquatic Centre Director to lead operations of a premier aquatic facility in Polokwane, Limpopo. The role drives programming, staffing, budgeting, safety, and customer engagement to ensure excellence.

Candidates bring 7+ years in aquatic facility management with senior leadership experience, strong risk management, lifeguard and First Aid/CPR credentials, and a passion for community recreation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field is required.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily operations of the aquatic centre, ensuring efficiency, safety, and high standards of service.
• Develop and manage annual budgets, financial forecasts, and resource allocation for the centre.
• Implement and enforce stringent safety regulations, emergency procedures, and lifeguard training protocols.
• Create and manage a diverse range of aquatic programs, including swimming lessons, fitness classes, and competitive events.
• Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate aquatic staff, including lifeguards, instructors, and administrative personnel.
• Develop and execute marketing and promotional strategies to increase facility usage and program participation.
• Manage relationships with vendors, suppliers, and community partners.
• Ensure the proper maintenance and upkeep of all aquatic facilities, equipment, and surrounding grounds.
• Conduct regular risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies to ensure patron and staff safety.
• Monitor industry trends and best practices to continuously enhance aquatic programming and facility offerings.

Education

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

Job description

About the Role Our client is seeking a visionary and results-oriented Senior Aquatic Centre Director to lead the operations of a premier aquatic facility in **Polokwane, Limpopo**. This leadership role requires a strategic thinker with extensive experience in managing large-scale aquatic venues, including swimming pools, water parks, and related amenities. The Director will be responsible for all aspects of facility management, including programming, staffing, budget control, safety protocols, and customer engagement. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of aquatics management best practices, a passion for community engagement, and a proven ability to drive revenue and operational efficiency. This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of aquatic recreation in **Polokwane**, fostering a safe, enjoyable, and thriving environment for all patrons. You will champion innovative programs and maintain the highest standards of service excellence, ensuring the facility remains a benchmark for aquatic centres nationwide. The role demands strong leadership qualities and a commitment to continuous improvement in all operational facets. This position is based in **Polokwane, Limpopo** and is essential for the success of our client's recreational offerings.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily operations of the aquatic centre, ensuring efficiency, safety, and high standards of service.
• Develop and manage annual budgets, financial forecasts, and resource allocation for the centre.
• Implement and enforce stringent safety regulations, emergency procedures, and lifeguard training protocols.
• Create and manage a diverse range of aquatic programs, including swimming lessons, fitness classes, and competitive events.
• Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate aquatic staff, including lifeguards, instructors, and administrative personnel.
• Develop and execute marketing and promotional strategies to increase facility usage and program participation.
• Manage relationships with vendors, suppliers, and community partners.
• Ensure the proper maintenance and upkeep of all aquatic facilities, equipment, and surrounding grounds.
• Conduct regular risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies to ensure patron and staff safety.
• Monitor industry trends and best practices to continuously enhance aquatic programming and facility offerings.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Recreation Management, Sports Science, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in aquatic facility management, with at least 3 years in a senior leadership role.
• Demonstrated expertise in pool operations, water chemistry, safety management, and lifeguard certification standards.
• Proven track record of successful budget management and revenue generation.
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience in developing and managing diverse aquatic programs for various age groups and abilities.
• Current lifeguard and First Aid/CPR certifications required.
• Knowledge of relevant health and safety regulations pertaining to public pools and water parks.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as the role demands in **Polokwane**.
• A genuine passion for swimming, water safety, and community recreation.

Benefits

• An attractive salary package reflecting your expertise and experience.
• Performance-based incentives and bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and public holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development, certifications, and attending industry conferences.
• Access to fitness and aquatic facilities for personal use.
• Retirement savings plan options.
• Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates.
• Employee assistance program for confidential support.
• A dynamic and rewarding work environment in **Polokwane, Limpopo**.