Senior Aquatics Manager

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 650,000 - 950,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Professional development opportunities

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 in Pretoria is seeking a Senior Aquatics Manager to lead all aquatic operations, ensuring safety, quality, and member satisfaction. You will supervise lifeguards and instructors, manage budgets, and develop programs across lessons, fitness, and events.

The role requires a 5+ year track record in aquatics, with leadership experience, and relevant certifications. Hybrid work is offered, with evenings and weekends as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field is required.
• Minimum of 5 years in aquatics management with at least 2 years in a supervisory role.
• Current Lifeguarding, CPR/AED, and First Aid certifications are mandatory.
• WSI or equivalent certification required.
• Strong knowledge of pool operations, water chemistry, filtration systems, and safety procedures.
• Experience developing and managing budgets and revenue streams.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Flexible schedule including evenings, weekends, and holidays in a hybrid capacity.
• Experience with aquatics program development and marketing.
• CPO or equivalent certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and enforce all aquatics policies, safety protocols.
• Manage day-to-day pool operations, opening/closing, water testing, equipment maintenance.
• Supervise, train, schedule, and evaluate lifeguards and swim instructors.
• Develop and manage aquatics budget, revenue from programs, memberships, rentals.
• Create and oversee diverse aquatics programs: lessons, water aerobics, teams, events.
• Ensure compliance with local, regional, and national health and safety regulations.
• Conduct regular facility inspections and implement corrective actions.
• Manage inventory of aquatic supplies and equipment.
• Handle member inquiries and resolve aquatics-related issues promptly.
• Collaborate with other facility managers for cohesive member experience.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Budgeting

Staff supervision

Program development

Safety compliance

Education

Bachelor's degree in Recreation Management, Sports Management, Public Health, or related field

Lifeguarding, CPR/AED, and First Aid certifications

Water Safety Instructor (WSI) or equivalent

Certified Pool Operator (CPO) or equivalent

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading recreational facility in Pretoria , is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Aquatics Manager to oversee all aspects of their aquatic operations. This position requires a proactive leader with a strong background in pool management, lifeguard supervision, swim instruction programming, and safety compliance. The Senior Aquatics Manager will be responsible for ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and well-maintained aquatic environment for all members and guests. This role involves a blend of hands-on management and strategic planning, with a hybrid work arrangement that allows for flexibility. You will lead a dedicated team of lifeguards, instructors, and support staff, ensuring the highest standards of service and safety are maintained at all times.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and enforce all aquatics policies, procedures, and safety protocols.
• Manage the day-to-day operations of the pool facility, including opening and closing procedures, water quality testing, and equipment maintenance.
• Supervise, train, schedule, and evaluate a team of lifeguards and swim instructors.
• Develop and manage the aquatics budget, including revenue generation through programs, memberships, and rentals.
• Create, promote, and oversee a diverse range of aquatics programs, including swim lessons, water aerobics, competitive teams, and special events.
• Ensure compliance with all local, regional, and national health and safety regulations.
• Conduct regular facility inspections and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Manage inventory of aquatic supplies and equipment.
• Handle member inquiries and resolve any issues related to aquatics operations promptly and professionally.
• Collaborate with other facility managers to ensure a cohesive member experience.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Recreation Management, Sports Management, Public Health, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in aquatics management, with at least 2 years in a supervisory role.
• Current Lifeguarding, CPR/AED, and First Aid certifications are mandatory.
• Water Safety Instructor (WSI) or equivalent certification required.
• Strong knowledge of pool operations, water chemistry, filtration systems, and safety procedures.
• Proven experience in developing and managing budgets and revenue streams.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, in a hybrid capacity.
• Experience with aquatics program development and marketing.
• Certified Pool Operator (CPO) or equivalent certification preferred.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, and opportunities for professional development. This role provides a chance to lead a key department at a premier facility in Pretoria , with the flexibility of a hybrid work model. You will work with a supportive team and have access to excellent recreational facilities. We are committed to fostering a safe and engaging environment for our community and employees.