Recreation Manager

Overview

The Recreation Manager oversees all recreational, sports, social, and community programming within a residential compound, aiming to improve residents’ lifestyle quality and optimize the use of all leisure facilities. The role ensures all activities are conducted securely, efficiently, and aligned with company guidelines.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the yearly calendar for recreation and community events.
• Oversee daily management of recreational amenities and facilities.
• Plan and coordinate a wide range of activities including sports, cultural, family, social, and seasonal occasions.
• Supervise and lead teams comprising recreation coordinators, lifeguards, fitness personnel, and event staff.
• Prepare and control the annual budget for the recreation department.
• Liaise with external vendors, entertainers, and service providers to support event delivery.
• Create engaging programs suited for children, adults, and families.
• Ensure adherence to health, safety, and risk mitigation policies.
• Continuously monitor resident satisfaction and implement initiatives to enhance service quality.
• Generate monthly reports on operations and performance metrics.
• Promote events and activities through internal communications, social media, newsletters, and mobile platforms.
• Collaborate with Security, Maintenance, Marketing, Customer Service, and other relevant departments to ensure smooth execution of events.
• Guarantee the upkeep, cleanliness, and proper functioning of recreational facilities.

Required Experience and Qualifications

• A bachelor's degree in Event Management, Hospitality, Business Administration, Sports Management, Recreation Management or a directly related field.
• At least five years of demonstrable experience in recreation or event management.
• Preferred possession of professional certification(s) in Event Management.
• Experience working in upscale residential compounds, gated communities, hotels, resorts, country clubs, or mixed-use developments is highly desirable.
• Proven track record of excellence in customer service and initiatives fostering resident involvement.
• Capability to manage several projects simultaneously while maintaining outstanding service standards.
• Organizational experience with corporate events, family festivals, sports tournaments, children’s activities, cultural events, holiday celebrations, and wellness programs.
• Knowledge and practice of health and safety regulations, emergency protocols, and risk management in recreational and public event environments.
• Expertise in vendor management including selection, contract negotiation, procurement, and performance oversight.
• Experience in leading multidisciplinary teams such as recreation coordinators, fitness instructors, lifeguards, event personnel, and outsourced service providers.

Knowledge and Skills

• Strong leadership and personnel management abilities.
• Excellent planning, multitasking, and organizational competence.
• Budget development and financial control expertise.
• Superior communication and interpersonal skills.
• Effective problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite.
• Fluency in written and spoken English; Arabic language skills considered an advantage.
• Willingness to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, and public holidays as necessary.