Manager of Recreation (Exempt 2026-01)

  • Full-time
  • Department: Parks, Recreation & Culture
  • Vacancy Status: Full-Time
  • Compensation: CAD 124896 - CAD 138768 - yearly

Company Description

Mission is located on the unceded, ancestral, and shared territory of the Stó:lō Peoples, specifically on Leq’á:mel, Semá:th, Máthexwi, Kwantlen, Sq’éwlets, and Katzie traditional territories in the lower mainland of BC. Nestled on the southern coastal mountain slopes overlooking the lush Fraser River Valley, Mission is a rapidly growing and dynamic community of approximately 41,500 residents, 20 kilometers north of the US border and 70 kilometers east of Vancouver. Although Mission is part of a broader metropolitan area, it still maintains its distinct and welcoming small-town flavor.

Job Description

The City of Mission is seeking an experienced and community-focused Manager of Recreation to lead the planning, delivery, and continuous improvement of recreation programs, services, facilities, parks, and community amenities. Reporting to the General Manager of Community & Recreation Services, this exempt leadership role is responsible for overseeing recreation operations and ensuring the City’s recreational opportunities continue to meet the evolving needs of the community. The Manager of Recreation provides strategic and operational leadership across a broad range of services, including recreation programming, special events, facility and park use, community partnerships, and public engagement initiatives.

This position plays a key role in supporting the planning and development of recreation facilities, trails, parks, and municipal green spaces while collaborating across City divisions to ensure high-quality service delivery. Responsibilities include leading departmental business, operating, and capital planning processes; managing budgets, contracts, consultants, and purchasing activities; and identifying opportunities for grants, sponsorships, and other funding sources. The Manager also oversees recreation marketing and communications strategies, ensuring programs and services are promoted effectively through print, digital, social, and community-based channels.

As a leader within the organization, the successful candidate will oversee recruitment, staff development, performance management, and employee relations for the Recreation division while fostering a positive, collaborative, and high-performing work environment. This role also works closely with community organizations and user groups to support effective use of City recreation facilities and amenities through policy development, agreements, communication, and relationship management. Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and the ability to navigate complex operational and community issues are essential.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have a post-secondary degree in recreation administration/ management, or a related field, along with a minimum of 5 years of progressive municipal recreation experience, including supervisory and management responsibilities. The successful applicant will demonstrate strong analytical, organizational, communication, and relationship-building skills, along with knowledge of local government operations, budgeting, recreation trends, and applicable legislation. A valid BC Driver’s Licence is required.

Additional Information

The City of Mission offers a collaborative work environment, competitive compensation, and a comprehensive benefits package including the Municipal Pension Plan. The salary range for this exempt position is $124,896 - $138,768 annually. This is an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a growing and vibrant community while helping shape recreation opportunities, programs, and services for residents.

Applications must be submitted online at mission.ca/careers. Email submissions will not be accepted. 

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Posting Closed: Sunday, May 31, 2026

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