Deputy Recreation Director

The City of Lafayette, Colorado is a vibrant and welcoming community located near the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, just 11 miles east of Boulder and 22 miles north of Denver. Home to approximately 29,000 residents, Lafayette offers an exceptional quality of life supported by outstanding parks, recreation, arts, cultural amenities, open space, trails, and community events. The Recreation Division plays an important role in connecting the community and enhancing quality of life through diverse programs, services, and facilities for residents of all ages. This is an exciting time to join Lafayette Recreation as the City prepares for a significant renovation and expansion of the Bob L. Burger Recreation Center.

About the Role

The City of Lafayette is seeking an experienced and collaborative Deputy Recreation Director to serve as the operational leader of the Recreation Division. This position provides strategic and day-to-day leadership for a comprehensive recreation program that includes the Bob L. Burger Recreation Center, licensed childcare, older adult services, youth programming, fitness, aquatics, athletics, guest services, and other community recreation programs.

The Deputy Recreation Director leads and develops a talented team, oversees division operations, develops and manages complex budgets, guides strategic initiatives and capital projects, and builds strong relationships throughout the organization and community. The position will also have the opportunity to help shape the future of recreation in Lafayette as the City moves forward with the planned Recreation Center expansion.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic and operational leadership for the Recreation Division.
• Oversee comprehensive recreation programs, including the Bob L. Burger Recreation Center, licensed childcare, older adult services, youth programming, fitness, aquatics, athletics, guest services, and other community recreation initiatives.
• Lead and develop a high-performing team of recreation professionals.
• Manage division operations, including budget development and financial oversight.
• Guide strategic initiatives and capital projects, including the planned Recreation Center expansion.
• Build and maintain strong relationships within the organization and the broader community.

Qualifications

We are seeking an accomplished recreation professional with progressively responsible leadership experience overseeing complex recreation operations, developing high-performing teams, and managing financial and organizational resources.

• Master's degree in Parks & Recreation Management, Public Administration, or a closely related field and five years of progressively responsible recreation management experience, including at least three years of supervisory experience; or
• Bachelor's degree in a related field and seven years of progressively responsible recreation management experience, including at least three years of supervisory experience; or
• Ten years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE) designation is highly desirable.

Skills

• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Sound judgment and financial acumen.
• Commitment to exceptional public service.
• Demonstrated ability to inspire and develop others.