Division Chief Southern Parks

DIVISION CHIEF - SOUTHERN PARKS

ORGANIZATION

MONTGOMERY PARKS

LOCATION

CHEVY CHASE, MARYLAND

JOB TYPE

FULL TIME

APPLICATION DEADLINE

JUN 25, 2025

DESCRIPTION

Are you a seasoned leader with a passion for park management and public service?

Are you a problem solver who encourages collaboration?

Do you empower your team to become phenomenal leaders?

If this sounds like you, The Southern Parks Division is the place you want to be!

Montgomery Parks is seeking a strategic and collaborative leader to join our team as the Southern Parks Division Chief This is a unique opportunity to lead, manage, and implement a comprehensive Work Program spanning 237 developed park sites consisting of 176 playgrounds, 212 athletic fields, 70 miles of trails and 39 picnic shelters The successful candidate will oversee an operating budget of over $115 million and a staff complement of over 200 seasonal and career employees

The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) is a six-time National Gold Medal Award Winner Behind the vast and diverse Montgomery Parks system is a career staff complement of over 800 employees, 415 parks and more than 37,000 acres of park land that serves a diverse population of more than one million residents in the Washington, DC metro area Go to our website to learn more: montgomeryparksorg

EXAMPLES OF IMPORTANT DUTIES

About the Role:

As Division Chief, you will provide comprehensive leadership and guidance to the Southern Parks Division, with a particular focus on advancing the development and maintenance of urban parks and athletic fields Your responsibilities will include overseeing planning, budgeting, personnel management, operations, maintenance, and program development A key aspect of the role will be transforming urban parks into dynamic community spaces that are accessible, inclusive, and aligned with diverse recreational and environmental needs Additionally, you will craft initiatives to enhance the quality, sustainability, and usability of athletic fields, ensuring they cater to the varied demands of their users Working closely with other division leaders, planners, engineers, and architects, you will ensure the seamless delivery of park services and major capital projects that emphasize these priorities across the region

Your responsibilities will include:

Leading and managing divisional staffing, including supervisory and professional park management, park maintenance, and administrative personnel

Manage an annual operating budget of over $115 million, ensuring effective and responsible fiscal planning and execution

Oversee maintenance and operations of parks, trails, nature centers, and facilities within the Southern Region

Champion the enhancement and activation of urban parks to ensure they serve as accessible, inclusive, and vibrant community spaces

Develop and implement strategies to enhance the quality, accessibility, and sustainability of athletic fields, ensuring they meet the needs of diverse user groups and align with community expectations

Support capital projects including park development, facility renovations, and infrastructure improvements

Promote a culture of accountability, performance excellence, and continuous improvement

Ensure compliance with all applicable regulations and Commission policies, especially around safety and procurement

Cultivate strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including community members, government partners, and departmental colleagues

What We're Looking For:

Proven experience in strategic leadership, team development, and operational management

Strong fiscal management and budgetary planning skills in large, complex organizations

Broad and significant experience working in urban parks

Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities to lead diverse teams

Experience in park management or public service delivery environments

Knowledge of safety standards, compliance, and regulations

A leader committed to equity, inclusion, and community engagement

Proficient with data, technology, and modern decision-making tools

Why Join Us?

Montgomery Parks is a nationally recognized and award-winning parks department We value innovation, collaboration, and stewardship This role offers the opportunity to leave a lasting impact on parklands that enrich lives and preserve nature in one of the most vibrant and diverse counties in the country To learn more about the strategic direction, future development, and management of our park system, please refer to the Powered by Parks: 2022 Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan

If you are ready to take on this exciting challenge and contribute to the success of Montgomery Parks, we encourage you to apply for the Southern Parks Division Chief position

Preferred Qualifications:

Master's Degree in Parks, Recreation, Public Administration, Engineering or related field

Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP), Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE), or Certified Park Professional (CPP)

Bi-lingual or Multi-lingual a Plus!

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

1 Bachelor's degree or four years progressively responsible experience in park administration, or related subjects; and

2 Six additional years of park administration/management experience that relates to the functional area of assignment (eg, park enterprise, interpretation and conservation, horticulture and forestry, maintenance and development) that included four years of supervisory experience; or

3 An equivalent combination of education and experience

4 Valid Maryland driver's license or the ability to acquire one