Director of Parks, Recreation & Public Property

NOTE: Clicking the "Apply" button on the City of Omaha job board will open a third-party website where applications for this position must be submitted.

Salary: $180,000-$200,000 annually (commensurate with qualifications)

The City of Omaha is partnering with Potrero Group to recruit an exceptional leader to serve as our next Director of Parks, Recreation & Public Property. This executive leadership role offers the opportunity to shape the future of one of the Midwest's largest park systems while advancing Omaha's vision of becoming a Top 10 Parks City in the United States.

The Director provides strategic leadership for the planning, development, operation, and maintenance of Omaha's parks, recreation programs, public properties, golf courses, aquatic facilities, urban forestry, and capital improvement projects. This position oversees a$66 million operating budget and leads a diverse workforce dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for Omaha residents.

Omaha is a vibrant, growing city that offers an exceptional quality of life, a strong sense of community, and a dynamic environment for innovation in public service. With a metropolitan population of nearly one million, Omaha combines the amenities of a major city with the accessibility and affordability of a mid-sized community.

The city is nationally recognized for its thriving arts and culture scene, award-winning zoo and aquarium, expanding riverfront development, and diverse neighborhoods. Omaha is also home to a robust philanthropic community and strong public-private partnerships that support ambitious civic projects, including significant investments in parks, trails, and public spaces.

Residents enjoy a low cost of living, excellent schools, and easy access to outdoor recreation, making Omaha an ideal place to live, work, and lead. For a parks and recreation professional, Omaha offers a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact in a city that is deeply committed to enhancing its public spaces and community well-being.

• Lead the strategic vision and daily operations of the Parks, Recreation & Public Property Department.
• Oversee the planning, development, and maintenance of parks, recreation facilities, public properties, natural areas, and citywide recreational programs.
• Direct major capital improvement projects, including the development of a new state-of-the-art sports complex.
• Manage a $66 million operating budget and lead a multidisciplinary workforce.
• Build and strengthen partnerships with community organizations, elected officials, philanthropic partners, and regional agencies.
• Champion equitable access to parks, recreation, and public spaces throughout Omaha.
• Represent the City before the Mayor, City Council, advisory boards, and the public.

Qualified candidates will demonstrate:

• Significant executive leadership experience in parks and recreation, public administration, or a related field serving a community of comparable complexity.
• Experience leading large, multidisciplinary organizations and managing substantial public-sector budgets.
• Success overseeing complex capital improvement projects from planning through completion.
• Strong strategic planning, organizational leadership, and change management skills.
• Proven ability to build collaborative partnerships with elected officials, community organizations, and stakeholders.
• Excellent communication, public engagement, and relationship-building abilities.

A bachelor's degree in public administration, parks and recreation management, landscape architecture, or a related field is required. A master's degree and CPRP or CPRE certification are preferred.

The expected salary range is $180,000-$200,000, depending on qualifications.

The City of Omaha offers a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA) funding
• Defined benefit pension plan
• Retiree healthcare benefits
• Fourteen paid holidays
• Generous paid vacation and sick leave

This position is based in Omaha, Nebraska. The Director is expected to maintain a visible presence throughout the city's parks system and community. A valid driver's license is required or must be obtained.

Click the Apply button on the City of Omaha job board or visit PotreroGroup.com/Omaha and select "Apply Here."

Applications should include:

• Resume
• Cover letter describing how your experience aligns with the position and what you would bring to the role

For additional information, please contact:

Andrew Leider

Managing Director, Potrero Group

aleider@potrerogroup.com

Application Deadline: Open until filled.

The City of Omaha is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce and ensuring equitable access to parks and recreational opportunities for all residents.