Assistant Director, Fitness and Wellness Programs

Cincinnati, Ohio, Basic Function/Purpose The Assistant Director of Fitness and Wellness provides strategic leadership, management, and assessment for a comprehensive, year-round fitness and wellness program that advances the mission, vision, and values of Campus Recreation and the University of Cincinnati. This position is responsible for the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of programs and services that promote student wellness, engagement, and a culture of health across campus. Primary areas of oversight include group fitness, personal training, specialty and fee-based fitness offerings, educational workshops, instructor and trainer development, and fitness and wellness-focused events. The Assistant Director leads program strategy, budget administration, risk management, assessment, and staff supervision while ensuring programs remain responsive to student and member needs, industry standards, and emerging trends in collegiate recreation and wellness. Responsibilities Program Development and Management (60%)

Provide strategic leadership and administrative oversight for a comprehensive fitness and wellness program, including group fitness, personal training, specialty and fee-based offerings, workshops, certifications, and signature events.

Develop, implement, and assess short- and long-term goals, strategic priorities, and operating plans for Fitness and Wellness in alignment with departmental and university objectives.

Design and evaluate programs and services that foster student engagement, wellbeing, and inclusive participation across a diverse campus community.

Monitor and implement national standards, best practices, and emerging trends in collegiate recreation, group fitness, personal training, and wellness to ensure high-quality, relevant, and innovative offerings.

Oversee the planning and execution of signature programs and events, including specialty fitness events, experiential wellness initiatives, and instructor and/or trainer preparation courses.

Coordinate assessment efforts for assigned areas, including participation tracking, learning outcomes, benchmarking, satisfaction data, and program effectiveness measures.

Develop, recommend, and implement policies, procedures, and operational practices that improve service quality, safety, and efficiency.

Collaborate with marketing and communications staff to promote programs and services through digital platforms, print materials, outreach efforts, and website content.

Prepare monthly, semester, and annual reports summarizing program outcomes, participation trends, and strategic recommendations.

Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with university departments, colleges, and campus partners to advance fitness and wellness initiatives.

Serve as a key liaison to internal and external partners to increase student access, reduce barriers to participation, and support a healthy campus environment.

Collaborate with units such as Counseling and Psychological Services, BeWell UC, academic departments, health promotion partners, and other stakeholders on integrated wellness initiatives.

Support and expand partnerships related to evidence-informed wellness efforts, including initiatives such as Exercise is Medicine On Campus.

Represent Campus Recreation on university, divisional, departmental, and professional association committees and work groups.

Personnel Management and Administration (20%)

Provide direction and leadership to full-time professional and student staff in Fitness and Wellness.

Facilitate ongoing, comprehensive training, development and engagement of staff.

Provide oversight for student staff and instructor/trainer employment processes, including recruitment, hiring, onboarding, scheduling, training, evaluation, development, and corrective action as needed.

Foster a positive work environment that emphasizes student development, accountability, customer service, inclusion, and professional growth.

Plan and facilitate comprehensive training and continuing education for student and professional staff to support program quality, safety, and leadership development.

Ensure personnel practices comply with university, departmental, and human resources policies and procedures, including hiring, payroll, timekeeping, and records management.

Contribute to departmental planning, committee work, and special projects as assigned.

Fiscal and Data Responsibilities (10%)

Develop, manage, and monitor operating and revenue budgets for Fitness and Wellness programs and services.

Establish program fees and pricing structures in alignment with departmental goals and market considerations.

Review and reconcile expenditures, purchasing activity, payroll, and other financial records to ensure accuracy, compliance, and fiscal stewardship.

Prepare financial projections, budget reports, and performance summaries to support planning and decision-making.

Maintain accurate records related to participation, revenue, expenses, equipment, and staffing for assigned areas.

Facility and Risk Management (10%)

Provide operational oversight for fitness and wellness program spaces including coordination of scheduling, setup, equipment needs, and service readiness.

Partner with department staff to support safe, functional, and welcoming fitness environments.

Oversee inventory management, maintenance coordination, replacement planning, and purchasing recommendations for program-specific fitness and wellness equipment.

Lead or support risk management practices for assigned areas, including policy development, emergency preparedness, staff training, incident response, and compliance with safety standards.

Ensure staff maintain required certifications and are prepared to respond effectively to emergencies and critical incidents.

Support departmental emergency action planning, safety drills, and applicable safety instruction, including American Red Cross or similar trainings when required.

Perform related duties based on departmental needs. This job description can be changed at any time.

Minimum Requirements

Bachelor's Degree

Seven (7) years of relevant education, experience, and/or other specialized training can fulfill minimum education and experience requirements.

Required Trainings/Certifications

Current fitness certification from an accredited organization such as ACSM, ACE, AFAA, or NASM.

American Red Cross CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers with First Aid Instructor certification. Must be certified within 6 (six) months of employment.

Required Experience

Three (3) years of relevant experience. Must include at least one (1) year of staff supervision.

Experience training, developing group fitness, personal training and wellness related staff and supervisors.

Experience working with fitness equipment.

A one-time moving bonus may be available