Associate Director - Recreation and Wellness

This position provides strategic leadership, oversight, and management for competitive and recreational sport programs, spirit programs, and the Injury Care Center. This role supervises professional and student staff, oversees program operations and risk management, and advances initiatives that enhance student involvement, leadership development, and well-being while contributing to a vibrant campus culture. The position also leads partnerships and program development initiatives that expand opportunities for student engagement and community collaboration. Salary & Benefits: Minimum starting salary of $65,000, commensurate with experience Comprehensive benefits package including medical, vision, dental, life insurance, generous employer retirement contributions, wellness resources and tuition waiver effective on date of hire. Primary Duties: Provide strategic leadership for competitive and recreational sports, including the development, implementation, and continuous evaluation of programs that promote student well-being, engagement, and leadership development while ensuring programs are accessible, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of a diverse student population. Oversee the administration of Intramural Sports, including referee recruitment and development, program scheduling, and coordination of indoor and outdoor facilities to support safe, inclusive, and engaging recreational sport opportunities. Provide oversight for Esports, including operations of the Laker Esports Center, supporting club competitions, recreational events, and drop-in gaming opportunities that foster student engagement and campus community. Oversee Spirit Programs, including the cheer and dance team, and mascot initiatives that foster school spirit, enhance community engagement, and contribute to a vibrant campus environment. Provide oversight for the Injury Care Center, supporting the delivery of athletic training and physical therapy services, coordination of care for students and ensuring compliance with professional standards and risk management practices. Hire, train, supervise, and evaluate professional and student staff, fostering a culture of mentorship, professional growth, and student leadership development. Develop, forecast, and manage assigned program budgets, ensuring responsible financial stewardship and alignment with departmental priorities. Develop and enforce departmental policies, procedures, and operational standards to ensure safe, inclusive, and effective program delivery. Serve in a leadership capacity during routine nights and weekends to support program operations and provide supervision for programs, students, and staff as needed. Respond to incidents and emergencies in accordance with university and departmental protocols, ensuring appropriate documentation and follow-up. Cultivate and collaborate with campus partners, community organizations, and external vendors to advance student well-being and support initiatives, operational needs, and departmental or divisional priorities. Contribute to departmental strategic planning and special projects that advance Recreation & Wellness priorities and maintain active engagement in the collegiate recreation profession, including participation in NIRSA and other relevant professional associations. Perform other duties as required/assigned by leadership. Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Bachelor’s degree. Minimum four (4) years of professional related experience. Minimum four (4) years of supervising staff experience in recreation or similar profession. Strong verbal and written communication and organizational skills. Commitment to valuing and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment. Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Master’s degree in business, sports/recreation administration, education, or related field. Progressive professional recreation experience in higher education. Experience in budget management, financial oversight, and strategic allocation of resources. Working Conditions: Work is primarily performed in an office environment. Some travel may be required. The position requires routine evening and weekend work to support programs, events, and operations. How to Apply: Attach your cover letter and resume. The system will allow you to attach these documents electronically. If you have questions about the position or the posting, please contact Aaron Mowen, [email protected] . If you need technical assistance , please contact Human Resources at [email protected] . Please note that successful applicants are responsible for ensuring their eligibility to work in the United States (i.e. a citizen or national of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, a foreign national authorized to work in the United States without the need of an employer sponsorship) on or before the effective date of appointment. Application Deadline: Application review begins April 20, 2026. This posting may be closed at any time at the discretion of the University. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Must have the physical stamina to work long hours and/or more than 5 days per week. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The information contained in this job description is for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act as amended by the ADA Amendment Act (2008), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and other applicable federal and state laws that prohibit discrimination on the basis of disability. GVSU will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. See www.gvsu.edu/equalopportunity/ . TDD Callers: Call Michigan Relay Center at 711 (in State) or 1-800-833-7833 (out of State). Grand Valley State University is an Antidiscrimination/Equal Opportunity Employer, which includes providing equal opportunity for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. University policy extends protections to additional identities.