ASSISTANT DIRECTOR - ARTS, CULTURE, AND ENGAGEMENT

Newport News Parks & Recreation is seeking a strategic, collaborative, and forward-thinking leader to assist the Director in the overall management and administration of the department. This position provides executive-level oversight of assigned divisions and plays a critical role in advancing community engagement, cultural enrichment, operational excellence, and organizational performance. The ideal candidate is an experienced public-sector leader who thrives in complex environments, values accountability, and understands how to align strategy, people, and resources to deliver measurable community impact.

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Key Responsibilities

Executive Leadership & Operations

• Assist the Director in the overall management and administration of the department
• Oversee assigned divisions and department-wide operational functions
• Develop, coordinate, and monitor annual operating and capital improvement budgets
• Establish and track program performance measures and outcomes

Strategic Planning & Organizational Effectiveness

• Help define departmental direction, priorities, and long-term goals
• Implement management systems and organizational structures that promote efficiency
• Develop and evaluate internal policies and procedures
• Ensure compliance with City and departmental policies

Community Engagement & Program Oversight

• Promote cross-divisional collaboration to ensure cohesive programming and branding
• Support marketing and communications strategies that increase public awareness
• Oversee planning and execution of major special events, festivals, and cultural programs
• Provide leadership in the stewardship and preservation of cultural and historic assets
• Build and maintain partnerships with community organizations, cultural groups, sponsors, and stakeholders

Personnel Leadership & Employee Relations

• Supervise division managers and administrative staff
• Oversee recruitment, performance management, and professional development
• Coach supervisors on performance and conduct matters
• Conduct investigations and coordinate disciplinary processes, including preparation of due process documentation
• Represent the department in grievance proceedings, as needed

Executive Reporting & Issue Resolution

• Prepare reports, statistical analyses, and strategic recommendations for executive leadership
• Lead research initiatives and present findings to the Director and City leadership
• Respond to inquiries, concerns, and complaints from agencies, officials, employees, and the public

What We’re Looking For

• Proven leadership experience in parks and recreation, cultural services, public administration, or related field. Strong financial and operational management skills
• Experience supervising leaders and managing complex personnel matters
• Demonstrated ability to build partnerships and drive community engagement
• Clear communicator with sound judgment and high integrity

Why Join Newport News Parks & Recreation?

This is an opportunity to help shape the future of a dynamic, growing department committed to community impact, cultural vitality, and operational excellence. You will serve as a key executive partner to the Director and play a defining role in advancing strategic priorities across the organization.