Buffkin / Baker, an executive search firm, has been retained to assist Mecklenburg County, North Carolina in the search for Director of Park and Recreation (Director).  Mecklenburg County (County), one of the two largest counties in the state, is home to over 1,100,000 residents, the City of Charlotte, and six neighboring towns. Mecklenburg County is also the second most populous county between Atlanta, GA and Washington, D.C. Between 2010 and 2020, the County’s population grew by 21.3%. Recent data presented by the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance indicates that from July 2022 through June 2023, the Charlotte region and Mecklenburg County had a daily inflow of 117 new residents, placing the region among the top 10 highest growth major metro regions in the country. 

With this rapid growth over the last decade, Mecklenburg County has attracted people from around the country and the world. As a major hub for American Airlines – one of the country’s largest airlines – it is easy to get to Mecklenburg County. This access has helped attract several Fortune 500 and 1000 companies that bring millions of investment dollars into the local economy. With a world- renowned park and recreation system, a range of professional and minor league sports teams, and diverse communities, people who come to Mecklenburg County find an energized downtown and a variety of living options.

Mecklenburg County Government represents a partnership of the people, elected officials, County employees, and community advisors all working together to serve County residents by helping improve their lives and community. As such, the County operates with the Vision to be the best local government service provider, and the Mission to serve Mecklenburg County residents by helping them improve their lives and community.

The Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation Department (MCPRD; Department) strives to enrich the lives of residents by providing recreational opportunities, open space, and nature education programs for all individuals regardless of age or ability. MCPRD plays a critical role in ensuring that Mecklenburg County achieves its vision that the County “will be a community of pride and choice for people to LIVE, LEARN, WORK, and RECREATE.”

Reporting to the Deputy County Manager, the Director provides leadership to five divisions within MCRD and directs all recreation activities and operations of the Department, including its assets and resources. The Director is responsible for ensuring all recreational programs and initiatives are providing high-quality services in a cost-effective and environmentally responsible framework using a customer- focused approach, aligned with community needs. This customer-focused approach should take into consideration the equality of, and access to, services as it relates to place (location), product (facility/amenity/venue), programming, and people (residents served).

Mecklenburg County offers a competitive salary based on experience. A generous benefit package is also offered.

To apply, receive the complete position profile, to provide a referral, or for additional information, please use the contact information below. While applications and nominations will be accepted until a successful candidate has been appointed, interested individuals are encouraged to submit their materials as soon as possible for full consideration as review of submitted materials will begin immediately.

To apply, please submit a resume and/or vita, and cover letter, to:

ParkandRec@buffinbaker.com

Ken Carrick, Partner  980-296-5401/Janny DeLoache, Associate Partner 704-377-7828

The successful candidate will possess a combination of ten years of park and recreation experience, and supervisory experience. This innovative and strategic leader will also have exceptional leadership, managerial, financial, and communication skills. A bachelor's degree in Parks and Recreation Management, Business Administration, or Public Administration, or a closely related field is required with a preference for a master’s degree in a related field. 

About Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation

The Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation Department (MCPRD; Department) strives to enrich the lives of residents by providing recreational opportunities, open space, and nature education programs for all individuals regardless of age or ability. MCPRD plays a critical role in ensuring that Mecklenburg County achieves its vision that the County “will be a community of pride and choice for people to LIVE, LEARN, WORK, and RECREATE.” MCRD serves a population exceeding 1.1 million residents located in the City of Charlotte, six towns, and the unincorporated areas of the County covering a total of 523 square miles. The Department manages over 22,500 acres and 290+ parks, nature preserves, greenways, and facilities. The Department’s budget exceeds $71 million and includes approximately 450 full-time staff and over 1,000 part-time and seasonal staff. MCPRD was a 2012 Gold Medal winner and is Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA) accredited.

Connections working at Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation