Recreation Planning Strategist Full-time Job

As the Recreation Planning Strategist, you will lead the development of recreation and sport-related studies and plans in support of business unit initiatives and priorities. You will manage internal and/or external project teams that undertake research on trends and best practices in the recreation sector. You will also analyze data demographics and usage patterns, assess recreation and sport service gaps, and consult with community groups and contributors for input and feedback. You will develop recreation-related plans, studies and policies and make recommendations related to the planning and development of recreation facilities and amenities for all Calgarians. Primary duties include: 

• Oversee the development of plans, studies, and reports on a broad range of specialized recreation and sport-related strategies, leading related projects and ensuring alignment with business unit initiatives and City policies and strategies.
• Develop project work plans and stages of project work, creating schedules, charters, and other related documents. 
• Evaluate proposal submissions and prepare related documentation. 
• Direct and coordinate City and consultant project teams, and manage financial resources dedicated to the project.
• Manage teams undertaking the development of background research on industry trends, best practices and data related to programs and facilities. 
• Facilitate information sessions and engagement with internal partners, other levels of government, and outside agencies involved in recreation planning. 
• Analyze and summarize data to evaluate the need, capacity and effectiveness of recreation programs and facilities, synthesizing and presenting data in a variety of methods including reports, presentations, memos and briefing notes.

• A degree in Urban Planning, Public Administration, Sport and Recreation, Architecture, or a related discipline is required. 
• At least 5 years of related experience, including at least 3 years of experience in interdisciplinary research, policy, and planning work, is required. 
• A graduate degree would be considered an asset. 
• Direct community or recreation experience would be considered an asset.
• The successful candidate will have strong negotiation and communication skills and the ability to analyze and synthesize information.
• Success in this role requires skills in building relationships, results orientation, and strategic thinking, as well as the ability to build consensus among internal/external partners and influence without authority.