About the role
In this role, you will lead the safe, efficient and high-quality operation of Splashdown Aquatic Centre. Managing a large and diverse team, you will drive exceptional customer experiences, strong business performance and continuous improvement across a broad range of aquatic, fitness and community programs. This is an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the health, wellbeing and participation of our community while contributing to the strategic direction of the City’s Swim, Sport and Leisure network.

Work type: Permanent, full time
Classification: Band 7 $109,342 pa plus super

Key responsibilities include:

• Lead and inspire a large team to deliver safe, inclusive and customer-focused services.
• Manage centre operations, financial performance and resources to achieve service, operational and budget outcomes.
• Drive customer experience, membership growth and Learn to Swim participation through innovative programs and service delivery.
• Oversee the presentation, maintenance and compliance of facilities to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for patrons, staff and contractors.
• Identify and implement continuous improvement initiatives that enhance operational efficiency and service outcomes.
• Build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders to support community participation and achieve business objectives.
• Manage the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre (NBAC) outdoor pool until mid-late 2027; transition management of the pool with the new Centre Manager of NBAC.

About you
To be successful in this role, you will have demonstrated experience leading a large operational team within the leisure, recreation, sport or aquatic industry. You will be a collaborative and customer-focused leader with strong commercial acumen, a commitment to safety and a passion for delivering high-quality community services.

Essential Experience:

• Relevant qualifications in recreation, sport management or a related discipline and/or substantial experience in a leisure, recreation or aquatic management role.
• Demonstrated experience leading and developing large teams in a customer-focused environment.
• Proven experience managing budgets, operational performance and business planning.
• Strong stakeholder engagement, communication and problem-solving skills.
• Experience implementing programs, services or initiatives that improve customer experience and drive participation outcomes.
• Preferred candidates will be required to undergo a National Police Check as part of the recruitment process (funded by the City).

If this sounds like the role for you, then click apply now! 

Child Safety Responsibilities   
We are committed to being a child-safe organisation and have zero-tolerance for child abuse. We have specific policies, procedures, and mandatory training in place to support employees, volunteers, and contractors to achieve and adhere to these commitments. Please read our Child Safe Standards Management Policy.  

Diversity and Inclusion  
At the City we want a workforce that reflects the community we live in. We welcome and embrace everyone, all people with their own unique experiences, and support and encourage all our employees to do their best work, have equal access to opportunities and a just working environment. For this reason, we particularly welcome and encourage applications from First Nations people, people with diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, from the LGBTQIA+ community, people with disability and people of all genders, ages and diverse experience.  

We are the City
From parks to offices, childcare centres to works depots, leisure facilities to the Wool Museum and waterfront, our team plays a vital role in shaping our vibrant and growing community. Our community counts on us to get the essentials right while looking for ways to go beyond. By listening, collaborating, and focusing on sustainability, we strive to do the basics brilliantly and create a lasting impact. If you’re ready to be part of something bigger, join us in shaping the future of Geelong.

We support accessibility and encourage discussions about any adjustments or support you may need during the recruitment process.

Applications and Enquiries

Click the Position Description link to view more information about this position.

Enquiries: Amanda Locke | Manager, Swim Sport & Leisure | ALocke@geelongcity.vic.gov.au

Click the Apply button to submit your application or find out more about this opportunity. If we can assist you with any reasonable adjustments in order to submit your application for this role, please contact the Talent Acquisition team via email at careers@geelongcity.vic.gov.au noting your preferred method of communication and contact details and a member of the team will be in touch.

We collect demographic data to help us learn who our advertisements are reaching and how we can reach an even more diverse audience.  We are committed to building a more diverse team. Your responses to our demographic questions are strictly confidential and will not be individually shared.