Senior Aquatic Operations Manager

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical and retirement benefits

Performance-based bonuses

Professional development opportunities

Facility amenities access

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Senior Aquatic Operations Manager to lead the strategic planning and day-to-day management of state-of-the-art aquatic facilities in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. You will oversee lifeguards, instructors, and maintenance staff, develop safety protocols, and manage budgets to ensure a safe, high-quality experience.

The ideal candidate will have 8+ years in aquatic facility management, certifications in Lifeguard Management, Pool Operator (CPO), and CPR/First Aid,

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Recreation Management, Sports Management, Public Administration, or a related field.
• 8+ years in aquatic facility management, with 4+ years in a supervisory role.
• Current Lifeguard Management, Pool Operator (e.g., CPO), and CPR/First Aid certifications.
• Budget management, financial planning, and revenue generation experience.
• Proven leadership and team management skills with recruitment and training ability.
• Strong knowledge of pool chemistry, maintenance, and safety regulations.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Proficiency in aquatic management software and standard office applications.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement operational policies and procedures for all aquatic facilities, ensuring safety and sanitation standards.
• Oversee daily operations including staffing, scheduling, maintenance, and cash handling.
• Manage and mentor aquatic staff including lifeguards, instructors, and maintenance personnel; ensure training and certification.
• Develop and manage the annual operating budget; control expenses and maximize revenue through programming and rentals.
• Implement and enforce safety regulations, emergency action plans, and risk management protocols.
• Ensure proper maintenance and operation of pool equipment, filtration systems, and related machinery.
• Develop and promote aquatic programs including swimming lessons, fitness classes, and competitive team support.
• Foster a positive, welcoming environment and maintain high customer service standards.
• Conduct regular inspections for safety and optimal functionality.
• Stay informed about industry trends and regulatory changes in aquatic management.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Staff development

Communication

Problem solving

Decision making

Aquatic management software

Office applications

Education

Bachelor's degree in Recreation Management / Sports Management / Public Administration

Tools

Aquatic management software

Office software

Job description

About the Role Our client, a leading provider in the Leisure & Sports industry, is seeking a seasoned Senior Aquatic Operations Manager to oversee their state-of-the-art aquatic facilities in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. This executive role is responsible for the strategic planning, development, and day-to-day management of all aquatic operations, ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and high-quality experience for all patrons. You will manage a diverse team of lifeguards, swim instructors, and facility staff, develop comprehensive safety protocols, and oversee budget management. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in aquatic facility management, a strong understanding of pool operations and safety regulations, and exceptional leadership and organizational skills. This position is critical to maintaining our client's reputation for excellence in aquatic programming and facility management within the vibrant community of Stellenbosch.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement operational policies and procedures for all aquatic facilities, ensuring adherence to safety and sanitation standards.
• Oversee the daily operations, including staffing, scheduling, facility maintenance, and cash handling.
• Manage and mentor a team of aquatic staff, including lifeguards, swim instructors, and maintenance personnel, ensuring proper training and certification.
• Develop and manage the annual operating budget for aquatic facilities, controlling expenses and maximizing revenue opportunities through programming and rentals.
• Implement and enforce all safety regulations, emergency action plans, and risk management protocols for aquatic environments.
• Ensure the proper maintenance and operation of all pool equipment, filtration systems, and related machinery.
• Develop and promote a wide range of aquatic programs, including swimming lessons, fitness classes, and competitive team support.
• Foster a positive and welcoming environment for all facility users and maintain high standards of customer service.
• Conduct regular inspections of facilities and equipment to ensure safety and optimal functionality.
• Stay informed about industry trends, best practices, and regulatory changes in aquatic management.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Recreation Management, Sports Management, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in aquatic facility management, with at least 4 years in a supervisory or management role.
• Current certifications in Lifeguard Management, Pool Operator (e.g., CPO), and CPR/First Aid are mandatory.
• Demonstrated experience in budget management, financial planning, and revenue generation.
• Proven leadership and team management skills, with the ability to recruit, train, and motivate staff.
• Strong understanding of pool chemistry, maintenance, and safety regulations.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Proficiency in aquatic management software and standard office applications.
• A passion for water safety and promoting aquatic activities within the Leisure & Sports sector.
• Must be available to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, and be based in Stellenbosch, Western Cape.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, performance-based bonuses, and opportunities for professional development and industry training.
• Employees enjoy access to the facility's amenities and a dynamic work environment.
• This role presents an excellent career advancement opportunity within a leading organization in the sports and recreation industry.