Job Description

Director of Youth & Recreation Centers and Programs, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board

kpCompanies is leading the search for a collaborative and community-focused Director of Youth & Recreation Centers and Programs to join the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB). This leader will be responsible for shaping, directing, and evaluating recreation services across one of the nation’s premier park systems. Reporting to the Assistant Superintendent of Recreation, the Director will ensure that MPRB recreation centers are vibrant hubs of engagement, equity, and opportunity for residents of all ages.

THE ORGANIZATION: MINNEAPOLIS PARK AND RECREATION BOARD

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) is a nationally recognized, award-winning park system responsible for maintaining and developing one of the most extensive urban park networks in the country. With 180 neighborhood and regional parks, 55 recreation centers, miles of walking and biking trails, and countless recreational opportunities, MPRB is committed to connecting every Minneapolis resident to the health and joy of the outdoors.

MPRB’s mission is to permanently preserve, protect, maintain, improve, and enhance the city’s natural resources, parkland, and recreational opportunities for current and future generations. Equity and inclusion are central to this work, ensuring that parks and recreation centers reflect and serve the full diversity of Minneapolis communities.

THE OPPORTUNITY

The Director of Recreation Centers and Programs will oversee the leadership, management, and evaluation of all recreation center operations and programming throughout Minneapolis. This position carries responsibility for developing innovative strategies that respond to the diverse needs of the community, advancing equitable access to recreation, and creating positive opportunities for residents of all ages.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Direct, oversee, and evaluate the operations of recreation centers and programs.
• Develop and implement strategies for equitable access and quality programming across recreation centers.
• Manage budgets, staffing, and resources for recreation center operations and services.
• Manages revenue, producing activities, including seeking, securing, and administering outside funding.
• Works collaboratively with the communications and marketing department to promote interest in Park and recreation programs through publicity, social media, events, and outreach to community groups and organizations.
• Supervise and develop staff, ensuring accountability and performance standards.
• Ensure compliance with policies, procedures, and regulatory standards.
• Engage with community members, organizations, and partners to align programs with community needs.
• Promote MPRB’s mission through innovative programming, collaboration, and public engagement.
• Works collaboratively and is actively engaged in the development and implementation of MPRB’s comprehensive plan.

RELATED WORK

• Collaborate with other city departments, schools, and community organizations to expand programming opportunities.
• Oversees online registration process, data collection and reports.
• Monitor and analyze community needs to inform program development and evaluation.
• Prepare and present reports on recreation operations, program outcomes, and resource needs.
• Respond to and resolve difficult and/or citizen inquiries and complains in a timely and effective manner.
• Participate in citywide initiatives and represent MPRB in meetings and public forums.
• Support facility maintenance and improvement planning for recreation centers.
• Advances sound, environmental, health, and safety practices with recreation, facilities, programs, and services.
• Ensure the Americans with Disabilities Act regulations are met or exceeded.
• Keeps the assistant superintendent for recreation services promptly informed of matters as they relate to the department, division and MPRB.

TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE (Position Requirements at Entry)

• Bachelor’s degree (required) in Recreation, Parks and Leisure Services, Education, Public Administration, or closely related field. (Master’s degree preferred).
• Five or more years of progressively responsible experience in recreation program and service delivery or related fields.
• 5+ years experience in recreation facility management.
• 5-7 years experience managing staff, budgets, and multi-site operations.
• Demonstrated success in building partnerships and engaging culturally diverse communities.
• Knowledge of best practices and trends in recreation programming and operations.
• Strong leadership, communication, and team-building skills.
• Two or more years supervising unionized employees

LICENSING REQUIREMENTS

• Valid driver’s license (without ignition interlock) required.

• Certified Park and Recreation Profession (CPRP) designation preferred.

COMPENSATION + EQUITY DISCLOSURE

At kpCompanies, equity and pay parity are foundational principles. We share salary ranges with all qualified candidates in the first interview to ensure transparency and fairness.

The salary range for the Director of Recreation Centers and Programs is $137,355 – $162,235 annually, with an excellent benefits package provided through the City of Minneapolis.

HOW TO APPLY

Interested candidates should submit cover letter, resume, and salary expectations. Position will remain open until filled. Priority will be given to applications received prior to October 08, 2025.

Apply via email to Joelle Allen at joelle@kpcompanies.com.

Submit your cover letter, resume, and salary expectations to: Joelle Allen

LinkedIn:

Apply by mail: c/o MPRB Director of Recreation Centers and Programs, ATTN: Joelle Allen

5775 Wayzata Blvd, Suite 700, St. Louis Park, MN 55416

All submissions are received in the strictest confidence.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board and kpCompanies are equal-opportunity employers. All applicants are afforded equal opportunity in hiring without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religious creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, gender identity, age, disability, mental illness, sexual orientation, genetics, military/veteran status, or any legally protected characteristic.

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