The Director of Sports and Recreation oversees the planning, development, and management of all sports and recreational programs at the Jewish Community Center of Greater Kansas City (“The J). This role ensures high-quality programming that promotes fun, recreation, and skill development in a welcoming and inclusive environment for participants of all ages. The Director provides strategic leadership, manages budgets and staff members, maintains facilities, and ensures that all youth sports health and safety standards are maintained.

The J’s Sports and Recreation facilities include five outdoor ballfields with lights, three of which are artificial turf fields; two gymnasiums for basketball, volleyball and pickleball; four racquetball courts; four indoor and four outdoor pickleball courts and an indoor turf space. Programming includes leagues, clinics and camps for both youth and adults in a variety of sports.

Essential Functions

Program Leadership & Development

• Design, implement, and evaluate a broad range of sports and recreation programs for youth and adults.
• Identify community needs and trends to expand or improve program offerings.
• Ensure programs align with The J’s mission and values.

Staff Management

• Recruit, train, and supervise a team of five Managers along with various coaches.
• Provide ongoing performance feedback and professional development opportunities.
• Maintain appropriate staffing levels to support safe and effective operations.

Operations & Facility Management

• Oversee daily operations of sports facilities, gyms, athletic fields, courts, and recreation spaces.
• Ensure all facilities and equipment are safe, clean, and properly maintained.
• Develop and enforce policies, procedures, and risk-management practices.

Budgeting & Administration

• Develop and manage the department’s annual budget, including revenue projections for programs.
• Monitor program performance, participation data, and financial outcomes.
• Manage scheduling, registration processes, and program marketing in collaboration with J staff partners.

Marketing

• Work closely with Marketing to increase revenues and participation. Monitor competitor programs, services, and sales.

Technology

• Become subject matter expert on various software products used to conduct business.

• Bachelor’s degree in Recreation Management, Sports Administration, Physical Education, or a related field.
• 5+ years of progressively responsible experience in recreation or sports program management.
• Demonstrated experience supervising staff and managing facilities.
• Strong budget management, organizational, and communication skills.
• CPR, First Aid, AED certification (or ability to obtain).
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings or weekends, as needed.

Physical Requirements

Mobility:

• Ability to move throughout indoor and outdoor recreation facilities, athletic fields, courts, and program areas.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during program supervision, events, or facility inspections.

Lifting & Carrying:

• Ability to lift, move, and carry equipment or supplies weighing up to 25–40 pounds on an occasional basis (e.g., sports equipment, event materials).

Physical Activity:

• Ability to bend, stoop, reach, and stretch as needed for equipment setup, direct service or facility tasks.

Vision & Hearing:

• Sufficient visual acuity to monitor program areas, observe activities, review documents, and use a computer.
• Ability to hear and communicate clearly with staff, participants, and partners in a variety of environments, including busy gyms or outdoor fields.

Communication:

• Ability to speak clearly and interact effectively in meetings, trainings, and public settings.

Environmental Conditions:

• Ability to work in varied indoor and outdoor conditions, including gymnasiums, fitness areas, swimming pool environments, and outdoor sports fields.
• Occasional exposure to noise, heat, humidity, or weather conditions during events or program supervision.

Work Schedule Flexibility:

• Ability to work irregular hours at times, including evenings and weekends, to support programs, events, and facility operations.

About The J

The J is committed to creating a diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. The J is Shabbat-Observant Friendly.

The mission of The J is to build a strong, vibrant and inclusive community that enhances wellness, meaning and joy based on Jewish values, heritage and culture. The J operates on these values:

• Welcoming + Inclusive - We are welcoming, inclusive and nurturing. We invite all to join us in making connections and lifelong friendships.
• Building Community - We believe in the strength of community and we seek to cultivate a sense of belonging in all we do.
• Enriching Mind + Body + Soul - We help individuals live a physically, intellectually, and emotionally healthy lifestyle.
• Passing on Jewish Culture + History - We celebrate and pass on the values, culture, history, and traditions of the Jewish people.
• Treat Others As You Wish To Be Treated - We treat everyone with respect, dignity and loving kindness.