Welcome to the City of 100 Hellos! We are a welcoming and inclusive community and one of the most culturally diverse communities in Alberta, with a population of 16,062and another 11,000 in the surrounding area. We have a vibrant and friendly business community, a range of ethnic restaurants and a myriad of recreational opportunities. The Brooks area offers a diverse landscape; we have pristine farms, beautiful lakes and a huge valley of hills and hoodoos!

Why work for the City of Brooks? For starters, you can take great pride in our organization, our positive work culture and our exceptional team of talented professionals who accomplish outstanding work each and every day for our citizens.You will have the opportunity to be part of a team that is professional, fun, dedicated and passionate about health and wellness. Our employees receive many benefits, some of which being, able to participate in gym memberships and educational opportunities. Please view ourCity of BrooksCareers Corner page for more details.

Reports To: Chief Administrative Officer
Salary: to be determined
Contract Duration: Minimum 3 months (with potential for extension)
Position Summary:
The Interim Director of Recreation and Protective Services is responsible for overseeing the strategic planning, development, implementation, and management of recreational programs, community services, and protective services during the transition period. This role includes the oversight of Peace Officer Services, Fire Department operations, and all recreational activities and community safety initiatives. The Interim Director ensures the delivery of high-quality services while promoting safety, well-being, and engagement within the community. This is a minimum 3-month contract position with the potential for extension based on organizational needs.
Key Responsibilities:

1. Leadership and Strategy:
- Provide overall leadership and direction for the Recreation and Protective Services Department, including Peace Officer Services, Fire Department, and recreational programming, during the interim period.
- Develop and implement short-term goals and strategies that ensure continuity of services, while maintaining high standards of safety, recreation, and emergency response.
- Foster collaboration, maintaining a positive and productive work environment within all departments under the Director's leadership.
- Ensure alignment with city or organizational goals and the immediate needs of the community.

2. Program Development and Management:
- Oversee the planning, development, and implementation of recreational programs and services, including sports, fitness, arts, and leisure activities.
- Manage the operations of public safety services, ensuring that all programs and activities meet professional standards and community needs.
- Supervise the design, operation, and maintenance of recreational facilities and access transit.
- Monitor, assess, and improve program delivery for both recreational services and emergency services.

3. Staff and Budget Management:
- Manage and supervise the departments staff, ensuring effective training, performance evaluations, and adherence to safety and operational standards.
- Oversee the management of department budgets for both recreational and protective services, ensuring resources are allocated effectively to maintain high service levels during the interim period.
- Track expenditures adjusting where necessary to maintain financial responsibility.

4. Community Engagement and Collaboration:
- Build and maintain relationships with community organizations, civic groups, local government entities, and emergency service providers to ensure services meet the needs of the public.
- Serve as the primary liaison between the department and the community, addressing concerns and ensuring programs and services are accessible and effective.
- Promote public awareness of recreational programs, public safety services, and emergency response efforts within the community.

5. Safety and Risk Management:
- Ensure that all recreational, reporting programs comply with local, provincial, and federal safety regulations and industry best practices.
- Oversee the development and enforcement of safety protocols for all programs, facilities, and emergency services during the interim period.
- Conduct regular risk assessments to minimize risk and improve safety for both staff and the community.

6. Policy Development and Compliance:
- Implement necessary policies and procedures for the short-term needs of the department, ensuring that all services align with current laws and regulations.
- Ensure compliance with local, provincial, and federal guidelines.
- Prepare reports for city leadership, outlining the department's performance, ongoing initiatives, and any immediate needs or improvements.

7. Public Relations and Marketing:
- Promote the departments services through various communication channels to maintain community engagement and program participation.
- Increase public awareness of recreational opportunities, fire safety, and law enforcement services during the interim period.
- Develop and implement marketing efforts to sustain participation and safety awareness within the community.
Qualifications:
Education:
o A Bachelor's degree in Recreation Management, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related field is required.

Experience:
- At least 7-10 years of senior level experience in recreation, municipal operations management, with a minimum of 5 years in a leadership or supervisory role.
- Proven experience managing or overseeing Fire Departments, Peace Officer services, and/or community-based programs.
- Experience managing short-term or interim leadership roles is a plus.

Skills:
- Strong leadership and management skills, with the ability to quickly adapt to new environments and address the immediate needs of the department and community.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to engage a variety of stakeholders.
- Knowledge of recreation programming, public safety protocols, fire safety practices, and risk management.
- Ability to make strategic decisions quickly and efficiently, even during high-pressure situations.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and relevant software for Fire and Police operations.
Additional Requirements:
Valid drivers license and ability to travel locally.
Must be able to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as needed.
Ability to pass background checks.
Physical Demands:
The position may require standing, walking, and sitting for extended periods.
Occasional lifting of materials or equipment up to 30 pounds.
Ability to work in emergency situations, which may require physical activity under stressful conditions.

Work Environment:
Office setting with frequent visits to outdoor recreational facilities and emergency service locations.
May be exposed to varying weather conditions and emergency situations.
Application Process:
Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional references.

Compensation & Benefits:

The City of Brooks offers a competitive salary and benefits package for this position.

The successful applicant will also receive a free family membership to the JBS Canada Centre during the term of employment.

A clean criminal records check and driver abstract will be required before an offer of employment is presented to the successful applicant.

This position will remain open until a suitable candidate is chosen.

The City of Brooks thanks all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

The City of Brooks is an equal opportunity employer that recruits, trains, pays, and promotes employees fairly and equally regardless of race, gender, ethnicity, age, or physical status.