Incorporated in 1890, the City of Oklahoma City is a charter city and has had a Council-Manager form of government since 1927. The Mayor, elected at-large, leads a Council of eight members, each elected by ward. The Mayor and Council set overall policy and strategic priorities for the organization. The City of Oklahoma City serves approximately 670,000 residents in a four (4) county, 621 square mile area.  Twenty-two (22) City departments provide a wide array of municipal services and programs. Additionally, municipal trusts play a significant role in the operations of major facilities and services.

The Parks and Recreation Director is appointed by the City Manager and reports to an Assistant City Manager. The Parks and Recreation Director is responsible for a staff of approximately 165 full-time employees and an annual departmental operating budget of $36,052,475. The Parks and Recreation Director provides leadership and is responsible for directing and coordinating the department mission of providing cultural, social, and recreational experiences to our community so they can have the opportunity to cultivate wellness and enjoy a healthy lifestyle.

The Parks and Recreation Department manages and oversees over 170 parks, 90 miles of multi-use trails, thirteen community centers, two family aquatic centers, two community pools, a state sanctioned soccer club, fish hatchery, two botanical gardens, and a nature park. Several new facilities are under construction including a new multi-generation recreation center, a new golf course clubhouse, an additional eight miles of multi-use trails, and a new senior health and wellness facility.  The department is organized into five divisions: Ad- ministration; Grounds Management; Natural Resources; Public-Private Partnerships; and Recreation, Health and Wellness.  The ideal candidate is a visionary leader, creative thinker, problem-solver, partnership builder, and someone who possesses exceptional analytical, organizational, interpersonal and communication skills. Knowledge of and skill in planning, developing, and accomplishing improvements to parkland and facilities within established budget, planning, coordinating and directing activities of professional, technical, and skilled labor personnel is essential in this role. 

Candidates shall have a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Parks and Recreation, Business, Finance, or a related field.  Minimum of five (5) years’ experience in public sector management of parks, public events, performing arts and/or recreational services with an organization of similar size or complexity as the City of Oklahoma City.