Director of Parks, Recreation and Culture

OPEN DATE:         Thursday, August 13, 2026

CLOSING DATE:  September 3, 2026 - First round of shortlisting; however, applications will continue to be received until the position is filled.

DEPARTMENT:     Parks, Recreation and Culture

REPORTS TO:       Chief Administrative Officer

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City of Powell River

Powell River is where coastal living, community connection, and career opportunity come together. Nestled on the northern Sunshine Coast of British Columbia, this vibrant coastal city offers an increasingly rare combination of exceptional quality of life, access to nature, and attainable homeownership compared to many communities across the province.

Surrounded by the Salish Sea, pristine lakes, lush forests, and rugged mountains, Powell River blends the amenities of an urban centre with the warmth and sense of belonging of a close-knit community. Residents enjoy world-class hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, boating, fishing, diving, and camping, all just minutes from their own front door. Home to the renowned Sunshine Coast Trail and the qathet Canoe Route, Powell River is a destination where outdoor adventure is part of everyday life.

Beyond its natural beauty, Powell River is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. Designated a Cultural Capital of Canada, the community offers a rich array of festivals, galleries, and cultural experiences that contribute to its distinct character and strong sense of place.

Rich in history and heritage, Powell River's Townsite Historic District reflects the community's forestry roots and unique architectural legacy. Today, that heritage is complemented by a diverse economy supported by forestry, tourism, healthcare, education, technology, and professional services.

For professionals and families seeking meaningful opportunities without compromising lifestyle, Powell River offers an exceptional place to live and work. With a strong sense of community, short commutes, diverse housing options, and unparalleled access to recreation, Powell River provides a compelling balance of career and quality of life.

Director of Parks, Recreation and Culture

(Salary Range $155,244 - $178,092 per year)

We’re looking for an accomplished leader to oversee the City’s Parks, Recreation, & Culture Department. As a key member of the senior management team, the role is responsible for a broad portfolio including parks, municipal properties, recreation, culture, and the maintenance of all municipal facilities, parks, and sports fields.

The Director serves as a trusted advisor and key business partner to leadership, Council, and related committees - providing sound guidance and strategic insight on a variety of operational, workplace, and organizational issues. A skilled relationship builder, the Director is responsible for building, supporting, and integrating critical aspects related to Parks, Recreation & Culture across the community and within our diverse staff; including:

• Overseeing broad community participation and engagement in accessible parks and recreation experiences that foster individual wellbeing, community wellbeing, and the wellbeing of our natural environments;
• Ensuring our local arts, culture, and heritage resources are identified and supported in meaningful ways that help our community thrive; and,
• Leading an integrated team of Parks, Recreation & Culture professionals to operationalize the strategic directives.

This position requires superior persuasive, negotiation, consultation and interpersonal skills along with advanced expertise in the operation of the Parks, Recreation, & Culture Department. 

Ideally, you hold a bachelor’s degree in Parks and Recreation, Culture Services, Resource Management, Business Administration, or Community Development, and have at least eight years of progressively responsible experience in a unionized setting including significant experience in a management role. 

We offer a competitive benefit package including enrolment in the Municipal Pension Plan. 

The successful applicant must be willing to relocate to Powell River; relocation assistance is available.

Director of Parks, Recreation and Culture Job Description

Closing Date: September 3, 2026 - First round of shortlisting; however, applications will continue to be received until the position is filled.

How To Apply:

If you are interested in this position:

1. Complete the questions contained in the application below.  After completing the questions, click "Next".
2. Attach a cover letter and a resume as separate PDF or Word documents.  This is a mandatory requirement of the application process. 
3. Attach copies of degrees, diplomas, and certifications if applicable in one single PDF or Word document.
4. IMPORTANT: Each applicant must use an email address unique to them.

 We thank all applicants for their interest, however, we may choose to only acknowledge those applicants selected for interview.

The City of Powell River is an equal opportunity employer.

Applicants may be required to participate in formal testing and interviews and to provide documentation to demonstrate and support their qualifications.