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***DISCLAIMER: The District reserves the right to accelerate or extend the "Closing Date" of open positions at any time, dependent upon the number of applications received.

Definition:
Under the direction of the Board of Directors, the General Manager serves as the District’s Chief Executive Officer, providing strategic leadership, administrative oversight, and policy implementation across all District operations and services. The role emphasizes interagency collaboration, public engagement, and the effective delivery of community programs.

Class Characteristics:
Accountable for ensuring efficient, cost-effective operations aligned with the District’s mission and Board directives.

Supervision:
Reports directly to the Board of Directors and oversees all District staff, either directly or through subordinate supervisors.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leads planning, administration, and evaluation of District services, programs, and operations in compliance with laws and Board policies.

• Develops and implements goals, policies, procedures, and performance standards.

• Prepares and manages annual budgets, including capital improvement planning.

• Advises the Board on policies, strategic plans, and financial matters.

• Acts as District spokesperson, fostering relationships with government bodies, community groups, and the public.

• Ensures compliance in contracts and District obligations.

• Monitors and responds to legal, regulatory, and technological developments.

Knowledge of:
Public administration, organizational leadership, budgeting, capital projects, contract management, employee supervision, strategic planning, and applicable laws and regulations. Must understand board governance, customer service practices, risk management, and public sector operations—especially in parks and recreation. Proficiency with modern office technology and written/oral communication is essential.

Ability to:
Lead and evaluate District operations, staff, and programs. Develop and manage large budgets, implement policies, conduct research, and make sound decisions. Represent the District effectively with stakeholders, ensure regulatory compliance, manage contracts, and deliver impactful presentations. Must be highly organized, deadline-driven, and able to build strong relationships across diverse groups.

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in recreation, park management, public/business administration, or related field.

• Ten (10) years of progressive leadership experience in public or recreation agencies.

License:
Valid California Driver’s License required throughout employment.

Physical Demands & Work Environment:
Primarily office-based with occasional field visits. Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs with assistance, operate standard office equipment, and interact professionally with staff and the public. Reasonable accommodations available as needed.

About Desert Recreation District

The Desert Recreation District (DRD) focuses on providing Recreation throughout the Coachella Valley service area. The Desert Recreation District (DRD) was created in 1950 and is the largest recreation and park district in the state of California. Covering over 1,800 square miles, DRD is responsible for over 30 recreational facilities throughout the Coachella Valley that include community and fitness centers, sports fields, swimming pools, a golf course and driving range and various parks and open spaces. DRD serves 380,000 residents in the incorporated communities of Palm Desert, La Quinta, Indio, Indian Wells and Coachella and the unincorporated communities of Thousand Palms, Bermuda Dunes, Indio Hills, Mecca, Thermal, Oasis, Vista Santa Rosa, 100 Palms and North Shore. OUR TEAM The District is governed by a five member Board of Directors that determines policy. Board members are elected by residents and serve a term of three years. The District’s General Manager reports to the Board of Directors and oversees the DRD organization with a core mission of serving our residents by providing quality programs, services and facilities that promote an active, healthy lifestyle fo...r all. Team members include full time and part time staff, class instructors and volunteers. Each person is essential to the success of our programs. Our team members work hard to develop and implement the more than 2,400 classes and 100+ special events each year. It may take a village in some places, but it takes a caring community of over 200 passionate team members at Desert Recreation District to respond to community needs.

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Connections working at Desert Recreation District