Director of Parks & Recreation

Home / Careers Director of Parks & Recreation THE OPPORTUNITY Frisco, Texas has spent two decades building a national reputation for growth done well – and its parks system has been central to that story. The City is now seeking an experienced, community-minded executive to serve as its next Parks and Recreation Director , stepping into leadership of a high-performing department at a pivotal moment: a newly adopted, resident-driven, master plan is charting the system's next decade, with roughly $230 million in park and trail capital projects underway or in design. And, the long-anticipated first phase of Grand Park, one of the largest undeveloped park sites in North Texas is under construction. This is an opportunity to shape the future of recreation, open space, and community connection in one of the fastest-growing cities in the country. The next Director will inherit a well-resourced, well-regarded department, with excellent organizational culture, and a City organization that treats parks and recreation as core to its identity – a strategic priority backed by sustained investment and engaged residents. ABOUT FRISCO Located approximately 25 miles north of Dallas within the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, Frisco is one of the most notable success stories in American municipal growth. A farming community of roughly 6,000 residents as recently as the early 1990s, Frisco is now home to more than 245,000 people and continues to draw national attention for its quality of life, fiscal management, and economic vitality. Frisco's economy is anchored by a diverse and expanding base of corporate headquarters and major employers, and household incomes in the city rank well above state and national averages. With that, its population is becoming increasingly diverse as well. Frisco is consistently ranked among the best places to live in Texas and the nation and is nationally known for its sports and entertainment venues – including Toyota Stadium and a roster of professional and collegiate sports organizations, as well as its top-rated schools and family-oriented amenities. PLAY FRISCO – THE PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT Operating under the community-facing brand “Play Frisco,” the Parks and Recreation Department is responsible for more than 70 parks ranging from small neighborhood green spaces to large community parks and regional sports complexes, along with a growing network of hike and bike trails, natural areas, and public art installations throughout the City. The department also operates several flagship facilities, including the Frisco Athletic Center, Frisco Discovery Center, Frisco Heritage Center, and The Grove at Frisco Commons. The Parks and Recreation Department consists of approximately 400 full and part-time employees (over 220 FTEs) and six divisions. Directly reporting to the Director are two Assistant Directors, a Business Services Division Manager, and a CIP Division Manager. For FY 2027, the department's operating budget is approximately $31.3 million — reflecting the City's sustained investment in recreation, natural resources, and community programming. New FY27 positions include additions to park operations at Northwest Community Park, the 4th Street Plaza, and support for natural resources and cultural affairs - continuing a multi-year pattern of staffing growth aligned with the system's expansion. THE POSITION The Director of Parks and Recreation provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the City's Parks and Recreation Department/Play Frisco. The position works closely with the City Manager’s Office, reporting to an Assistant City Manager or the Deputy City Manager. The Director leads an innovative, community-centered system of parks, recreation, natural resources, facilities, programs, events, and partnerships that enhances community well-being and quality of life, translating City priorities into long-range strategies, investments, services, and measurable outcomes. Core responsibilities include executive leadership & strategy; operations & long-range planning; budget preparation & financial oversight; advising the City Manager’s Office and delivering presentations and recommendations to the City Council and others; staff leadership & talent development; board, partnership & community relations; regulatory compliance, safety & stewardship; and performance, communication & continuous improvement of departmental operations. The ideal candidate will be a visible, collaborative executive who can lead a complex, multidisciplinary organization while building strong relationships with elected officials, boards and commissions, employees, residents, and community partners. QUALIFICATIONS Any combination of education and experience that provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities qualifies. The following is a typical way to qualify: Education: A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Parks and Recreation Administration, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related field. A Master's degree in a related field is preferred. Experience: Five to seven years of progressive leadership experience in parks and recreation, municipal government, community services, or a related field, including five years in a management or executive leadership capacity or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Certifications: The Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) credential is required within 12 months of hire, and the Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE) credential is preferred. SALARY & BENEFITS The salary range for the Parks and Recreation Director is competitive and will be dependent on qualifications and experience. The City also offers an excellent benefit package, including retirement provided by the Texas Municipal Retirement System (TMRS) with an employee contribution of 7% of salary and a 2:1 matching contribution by the City. TMRS allows for service credit from other public agencies. Additi