The Position

The Director, Parks and Recreation Operations provides strategic leadership for a diverse portfolio of public assets and services that shape Fort Collins’ quality of life, including parks, paved trails, cemeteries, recreation centers, and civic spaces such as streetscapes, medians, and downtown amenities. The Director sets the operational vision for an integrated system of facilities and programs that promote health, wellness, and community connection, overseeing offerings that span youth, adult, and senior programming, sports leagues, adaptive recreation, and specialized amenities such as aquatic and ice facilities, a working farm, and a pottery studio. This new position combines the operations parts of the City’s Parks and Recreation services and was created to optimize efficiencies, reduce service overlap, and improve the community/customer experience in Parks and Recreation service delivery.

Reporting to the Deputy Director, Community Services, the Director sets the department's implementation, programming, and operations and maintenance strategy through the development and implementation of short- and long-range operational and organizational plans for all park and recreational sites and facilities. The position ensures operational excellence by continuously evaluating programs, policies, and business practices, incorporating industry trends and innovations, and aligning services with evolving community needs across all age groups. The Director builds and leads a high-performing, service-oriented team, fostering a culture of service, accountability, inclusion, and professional growth. Through strong internal collaboration and external partnerships, the role advances cross-departmental initiatives, coordinates with operations services and park planning and development on asset maintenance and safety, and strengthens relationships with boards, commissions, and community stakeholders.

The Director is a visible, approachable, and emotionally intelligent leader who builds trust through authenticity, transparency, and consistent follow-through. They foster a positive, inclusive workplace culture grounded in respect, accountability, collaboration, and camaraderie. As an active listener and strong communicator, the Director engages employees at all levels, supports staff, and explains the “why” behind decisions, creating an environment where employees feel valued, connected, and empowered to succeed. Financially astute and operationally savvy, the Director aligns service expectations with available resources and makes disciplined, forward-thinking decisions in a resource-constrained environment. They understand how to right-size services, prioritize investments, and balance community interests with fiscal realities to ensure long-term resilience. A commitment to innovation and modernization is equally important, including leveraging technology, data, and process improvements to enhance efficiency, customer experience, and service delivery.

Above all, the next Director is a dedicated public servant and strong advocate for the department and community. A natural relationship builder, the Director brings employees, community members, elected officials, and partner organizations together around common priorities, creating strong partnerships that advance shared goals. With strong political acumen and credibility, the Director works collaboratively across the City, within Community Services, and alongside external stakeholders. Adaptable, optimistic, and committed to the long term, the Director guides the department into its next chapter while ensuring Fort Collins remains a vibrant, healthy, and connected community for generations to come.

Compensation and Benefits

The City of Fort Collins offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package, including a market salary commensurate with education and experience. The annual salary range is $100,452 – $167,467, and the anticipated hiring range is $135,000 – $150,000.

How to Apply

Applications will be accepted electronically by Raftelis at raftelis.com. Applicants complete a brief online form and are prompted to provide a cover letter and resume. For full consideration, please apply by Monday, June 15, 2026.

Education and Experience

Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they can perform every job description task. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may come from a less traditional background. The City may consider an equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience to meet minimum qualifications.

At least eight years of progressively responsible leadership experience in Parks and Recreation, including strong knowledge of parks operations, recreation services, or both, is required. Demonstrated success leading organizational change, integrating teams or functions, and implementing thoughtful change management strategies in dynamic environments is essential. Experience serving a growing community with a complex parks and recreation department is highly desirable, particularly within a multi-service organization with a comparable scope to Fort Collins, and with the ability to scale strategies and operations accordingly. A proven track record of delivering high-quality, adaptable, accessible, and inclusive services is required. Candidates must possess strong business acumen and a solid financial background, including advanced expertise in budgeting, financial management, and complex funding models. Knowledge of green industry practices and a demonstrated commitment to sustainability, environmental stewardship, and organizational resilience are ideal.

A bachelor's degree in parks administration, public administration, business administration, recreation management, or a closely related field is required, with a master’s degree preferred. A current Certified Parks and Recreation Professional (CPRP) certification, or the ability to obtain one within the first 12 months of hire, is required. A Certified Parks and Recreation Executive (CPRE) preferred.