Recreation Director

This is a Director level position for a newly created team in the Parks and Recreation division of our client. It is a salaried position that is responsible for implementation of two significant Trail Systems within 2 communities in the upstate. Partnering with County and City governments, as well as community partners.

This position will lead the trails implementation strategy to include segment development, oversight of the trails team and contractors, assist in developing the necessary financial resources, coordinate volunteer and marketing support, and guide of partnership coordination.

This position is a key leader among the team, which is passionate, has fun together, and enjoys a flexible work environment.

Position Responsibilities

Trails System

• Guide and update the trails system vision with the Executive Director
• Lead the initial investigation of new segments and trail connections
• Assist Development & Marketing Director in developing the overall experience
• Facilitate the coordination of trails stewardship activities with trails, marketing and volunteer colleagues
• Guide the trails staff and contractors, to include attending relevant meetings with stakeholders, funders or property owners
• Ensure a strong understanding of the status of each active project
• Assist the Executive Director with the development of trail projects across the state

Trails Partners

• Coordinate engagement among trail partners and team using a collective impact framework
• Provide staff support for the City Bicycle and Pedestrian Commission

Resource Development

• Assist the Executive Director and Development & Marketing Director in securing resources needed to ensure successful implementation of the various trail initiatives
• Ensure a thorough understanding of funding sources per segment
• Spearhead grant writing that supports development of existing and new trails
• Develop volunteer programs to support existing trails maintenance and programming, to include trail counters, maintenance liaisons, trail cleanups and other similar events

Organizational Development

• Represent the organization in external meetings and community events
• Build strong relationships with the PAL board of directors, committee members, donors, colleagues, key partners, and trail users
• Act as a liaison to a board committee, as assigned
• Serve as an active participant in and supporter of special events and activities
• Regularly meets with and provides guidance, coaching and direction for trails team members
• Serve as a member of the senior team

Essential Skills and Experience

• Staff management experience
• Project management experience
• Knowledge of and passion for trails and trail systems, from routing to mapping and using
• Bachelor’s degree desired
• Ability to work as a leader and as part of a team
• Excellent written and verbal skills
• Proven grant writing and proposal experience a plus
• Relationship building skills and a willingness to spend ample time out of the office
• Act using partnership principles of integrity, respect, humility and inclusion internally and externally to advance community goals and outcomes
• High level of proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Must be able to work independently, handle confidential information, and navigate sensitive situations