This position is open until filled; however, qualified candidates are asked to apply by May 31, 2024. Applications will be reviewed as they are received. 

Maryland Heights, Missouri (pop. 28,284), located in the heart of St. Louis County, boasts a vibrant community, thriving economy, and convenient access to urban attractions. With easy access to major highways and proximity to Lambert-St. Louis International Airport, Maryland Heights is an ideal location for professionals and businesses looking to thrive in a dynamic and accessible environment. 

The City is seeking a dynamic, responsive leader to be its next Director of Parks and Recreation. Reporting to the City Administrator, the Director oversees the administration of the Parks and Recreation Department, which includes the Recreation Services, Community Center Maintenance, Government Center Maintenance, Aquaport, and Parks Maintenance programs; budget preparation and control, personnel management, clerical and record-keeping functions and departmental planning and evaluation. The Director oversees an FY2024 department budget of $7.8M and exercises administrative direction over approximately 79 FTEs.

LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Building Community. The Director of Parks and Recreation plays a pivotal role in fostering connections, inclusivity, and a sense of belonging within the community. The City conducts a biennial public survey and Parks and Recreation continuously meets and/or exceeds expectations. Through innovative events and programming with substantial communication and promotion, thoughtful park design, and community engagement initiatives, the Director will have the chance to continue this positive trend through enhancement of spaces and experiences that bring people together, celebrating diversity, and elevating the overall quality of life within the city. 

Municipal Parks Grants. The Director of Parks and Recreation will have a significant opportunity to secure and leverage grants to enhance the park system's infrastructure and amenities. By identifying funding opportunities, crafting compelling grant proposals, and effectively managing grant funds, the Director will have the ability to initiate transformative projects that improve accessibility, sustainability, and recreational offerings within the city’s parks and open spaces.

Master Plan. The Master Plan approved in 2019 is in its sixth year and remains relevant. The Master Plan will serve as a guide for the Director to continue to enhance, expand, and explore parks and recreation improvements and capital needs while focusing on the overarching top three priorities from a system-wide perspective that are most important to the community: 1. Expand trails & improve connectivity. 2. Provide natural areas for passive recreation & wildlife. 3. Promote physical activity & wellness.

Update Policies, Procedures and Processes. The new Director of Parks and Recreation will review, update, document and implement standardized policies, procedures, and processes across the department to streamline operations, enhance efficiency including integrating appropriate technology, and ensure alignment with evolving standards and regulations. By conducting thorough reviews, soliciting input from stakeholders, and implementing best practices, the next Director will have the chance to enhance the department's approach to finance, governance, management and customer service to foster a culture of transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement. 

Team Building and Retention. The Director will lead a team of seasoned and talented professionals and have the opportunity to implement strategic recruitment and retention initiatives, foster professional development, cross-training and succession opportunities, and promote a culture of collaboration and accountability. 

The starting salary range for this position will be $111,230 - $159,612. The City offers a comprehensive benefits package to include an auto allowance of $600/month, LAGERS pension, long-term disability, life insurance, AD&D, health and dental insurance, Employee Assistance Program, and membership to the Community Center and Aquaport all fully paid by the City for the employee. Voluntary benefits include vision, short term disability, whole life and term life insurance, cancer coverage, accident coverage, FSA/dependent care, critical illness coverage, and pet insurance. The City offers relocation assistance. 

This position requires graduation from a college or university with a bachelor's degree in recreation, education, or physical education including course work in organization and administration, and five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in parks and recreation programs; or any equivalent combination of education and experience. 

Qualified candidates will possess a Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) or Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE) or an equivalent certification. A valid state driver’s license or ability to obtain is required.

This position is open until filled; qualified candidates are asked to apply by May 31, 2024. Applications will be reviewed as they are received.

For more information, please contact Yolanda Howze at yolanda.howze@bakertilly.com or 312.240.3401.