The PRPS Board of Directors is seeking a dynamic, entrepreneurial, visionary leader that has a passion for the Parks and Recreation industry, and the ability to inspire and motivate others. The new Executive Director will provide strategic leadership, focus, and direction in support of the Board of Directors and staff, and shall be highly ethical, with exceptional management, financial, and organizational skills. The Executive Director must have a sense of presence to successfully engage and nurture relationships with various local, state, and national agencies and partners in
accomplishing the current and future efforts of PRPS. The Executive Director must have both patience and perseverance to foster the vision and direction of PRPS and seek “best practices” and trends for continued growth and relevance. Outstanding listening and effective communication skills are imperative to ensure PRPS is providing open, responsive, and customer-oriented service to its membership and partners.

The Executive Director shall have experience working in the public sector and/or non-profit organizations and have a heart for advocating the mission, vision, and values of what PRPS embodies. Experience working in event planning, association management, membership growth and retention, strategic planning, and fundraising are key traits for leading this growing organization. The Executive Director, in conjunction with the Board of Directors, will develop and support professional development opportunities.

The position is a full-time, salaried position, intended to be in-person in the PRPS office in State College. The Board recognizes the industry shift towards a hybrid workplace, and the Executive Director may explore limited future options for society staff. The Executive Director reports to the PRPS Board of Directors.

Candidates are required to have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Business Administration, Parks and/or Recreation Management, or related field. Minimum of eight (8) years of related work experience, including five (5) years of administrative or supervisory responsibility. Certified Parks and Recreation Professional (CPRP), Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE) and/or Certified Association Executive (CAE) credentials are ideal.

About Pennsylvania Recreation & Park Society

The Pennsylvania Recreation and Park Society (PRPS) is the principal statewide association providing industry leadership, professional development, advocacy, and resources for those working and volunteering in parks and recreation. The Society’s members include managers of municipal and state recreation and park systems, recreation therapists and wellness specialists, higher education professors and students, managers and programmers of commercial recreation facilities, suppliers and manufacturers of recreation and park products and services, and citizen members of community recreation and park boards. Founded in 1935, PRPS is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) professional membership association of more than 2000 members statewide. Mission: The Pennsylvania Recreation and Park Society empowers recreation and park professionals and citizen advocates to enhance life-enriching services for all Pennsylvanians. Vision: The Pennsylvania Recreation and Park Society will improve environmental, economic, and social health and wellness for current and future generations.

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