Oakland Parks, Recreation & Youth Development Director

Director of Oakland Parks, Recreation & Youth Development

The Director of Oakland Parks, Recreation & Youth Development (OPRYD) is an at-will executive management position reporting directly to the City Administrator. The Director provides visionary and strategic leadership for one of Oakland's most visible and community-centered departments, overseeing the city's parks, recreation facilities, and youth development programs that serve residents of all ages.

The Director serves as the City's chief strategist for parks, recreation, and youth development, working across sectors to ensure all Oakland residents have access to safe spaces, equitable programs, and meaningful opportunities for engagement and growth.

Specific duties include :

• Develop and implement long- and short-term goals that center on equity, inclusion, and community well-being.
• Prioritize safety, accessibility, and high-quality facilities and open spaces.
• Foster a culture of creativity, collaboration, accountability, and professional growth.
• Develop and manage the department budget, ensure sound fiscal policies and transparent controls, while investing in vital programs, community, and staff development.
• In collaboration with other Departments and City leadership implement "best-in-class" project planning, including capital improvements, system-wide maintenance, technology integration, marketing, civic engagement, and performance-based management.
• Collaborate with Public Works Department leadership to ensure coordinated facility maintenance and adopt best practices for work order systems, meeting state and national standards.
• Develop a comprehensive long-term capital improvement program.
• Identify and secure non-general-fund revenue through public / private partnerships, sponsorships, fundraising, and grants.
• Implement a comprehensive training program for employees at all levels to promote professional development and operational excellence.

The ideal candidate is a strategic, people-centered leader with outstanding management skills, including the ability to build, mentor, and inspire effective teams while holding staff accountable. They should be savvy in public sector finance and operations, ensuring fiscal responsibility while translating complex financial information for diverse audiences.

The successful candidate must be a confident, collaborative, and decisive leader with strong judgment, professional presence, and an inspiring demeanor. Key qualities include :

This is an opportunity for a bold, adaptable leader to shape the future of parks, recreation, and youth development in Oakland while leaving a lasting impact on the community.

Requirements :

To be considered, please submit your resume and cover letter outlining the background and experience that makes you the ideal candidate electronically through the city's online applicant portal found here :

www.governmentjobs.com / careers / oaklandca

Applications will be accepted through November 30, 2025. If you have any questions about the recruitment process, email Amber Lytle at ALytle@oaklandca.gov.