Deputy Center Manager

The Deputy Center Manager at NYC Parks has a diverse range of responsibilities including developing and implementing recreation activities, assisting in daily operations, and supervising staff and volunteers. The role also involves managing program development for various activities such as sports, fitness, and educational workshops, while ensuring safety standards are met. You will represent the Center Manager in community outreach and fundraising efforts, making your role integral to the overall success of the recreation center.

To qualify for the Deputy Center Manager position at NYC Parks, you must have a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college, along with two years of satisfactory, full-time experience in recreation leadership. Alternatively, candidates may present education and/or experience equivalent to these requirements. This ensures that all applicants bring the necessary background and skillset to effectively manage recreation programs.

The Deputy Center Manager at NYC Parks plays a vital role in community engagement by representing the organization in outreach initiatives, partnering with local organizations, and participating in fundraising activities. This position involves creating comprehensive presentations for community organizations and public officials to foster collaboration and support for programming, ensuring that the recreation center remains a vibrant hub for the community.

Success as a Deputy Center Manager at NYC Parks requires strong leadership and supervisory skills, as you'll guide staff and volunteers while creating engaging programs. Excellent problem-solving abilities are essential for managing resources efficiently, while effective communication skills will aid in outreach and collaboration. Familiarity with software applications like Xplor Recreation and Excel is also crucial for tracking data and managing financials.

As the Deputy Center Manager at NYC Parks, you will oversee a variety of programs aimed at promoting active and healthy lifestyles. This includes sports leagues, fitness classes, outdoor adventures, educational activities, performing arts workshops, and exciting summer camp sessions. Your role is pivotal in ensuring these programs meet community needs and provide enriching experiences for participants of all ages.

When answering this question, provide specific examples of programs you've developed or managed, highlighting your role, the challenges faced, and the outcomes achieved. Discuss how you assessed community needs and tailored programs to meet those needs, including any feedback you received from participants.

Your response should highlight your knowledge of safety regulations and practices. Discuss your experience with safety training, implementing protocols, and how you conduct regular safety inspections or address hazards promptly. Provide an example of a situation where you effectively managed a safety issue.

Talk about your approaches to community engagement, such as conducting outreach events, collaborating with local organizations, or leveraging social media for promotion. Share specific examples of successful engagement initiatives you've led and how they positively impacted participation in programs.

When addressing conflicts, emphasize your communication and conflict resolution skills. Discuss a specific instance where you mediated a conflict, the steps you took to resolve it, and the importance of maintaining a positive and productive team dynamic.

Share a specific example that illustrates your adaptability and problem-solving skills. Explain the circumstances requiring the change, the adjustments you made, and how you ensured the program remained successful despite the challenges.

Discuss your proficiency with relevant software such as Xplor Recreation, AMPS, or Excel. Provide examples of how you've utilized these tools to track attendance, manage finances, or report on program outcomes and highlight the importance of data in decision-making.

Your answer should encompass various motivational strategies, including setting clear expectations, providing recognition for accomplishments, and fostering a positive work environment. Share examples of how you’ve successfully motivated your team and the impact it had on program delivery.

Discuss how you assess the needs of different populations in the community and how you incorporate their interests into program development. Examples may include creating inclusive programming for various age groups, abilities, or cultural backgrounds to ensure everyone feels welcome.

Provide a concrete example of a fundraising initiative, outlining your role, the planning process, and the strategies you employed to secure funds. Discuss the outcome and how the funds were used to enhance programs or facilities.

Explain your process for monitoring program success, which may include collecting participant feedback, tracking attendance data, and analyzing performance metrics. Share examples of reports you’ve created and how they informed future programming decisions.