General Manager, Recreation + Parks
Organization Website
rdn.bc.ca
Posting Date
April 2026
Location
Nanaimo, BC
Salary Range (CAD)
$195,551 -$224,400
Applications
info@hwest.ca
Organizational Profile
The Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) is located on the beautiful central east coast of Vancouver Island, incorporating the municipalities of Nanaimo, Lantzville, Parksville, and Qualicum Beach, and seven unincorporated electoral areas that lie between Cassidy to the south, Bowser to the north, and east to the Gulf Islands of Gabriola, Mudge and DeCourcy. The RDN is situated within the traditional territories of several First Nations, including Snuneymuxw, Snaw-Naw-As and Qualicum First Nations and recognizes their rich cultural heritage. The RDN is focused on building strong relationships with these Nations. The RDN is home to approximately 170,000 people and is growing at a rapid pace. Growth is due in part to a mild coastal climate, diverse ecosystems, and landscapes from the Salish Sea to rugged mountains, easy access to a range of outdoor recreation, and a high quality of life.
About the Role
Reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), the General Manager, Recreation + Parks Services is a key member of the Executive Leadership Team (ELT), providing strategic leadership and operational oversight for a diverse, high-profile portfolio that supports RDN service delivery and long-term community goals.
This role leads a multidisciplinary team responsible for the planning, development, and delivery of recreation programs, facilities, and an extensive regional parks and trails system, including major recreation facilities, parklands, and natural assets. The General Manager ensures alignment with the Board’s Strategic Plan and related master plans while advancing initiatives that enhance service levels, community well-being, and environmental stewardship.
The position provides strong financial stewardship, supports long-range planning, and leads complex capital projects and land acquisitions. The General Manager also fosters collaborative relationships with member municipalities, First Nations, partner agencies, and community stakeholders to advance shared priorities and deliver integrated regional services
This is an incredible opportunity for a strong leader and relationship-builder to lead the RDN Recreation and Parks teams. The preferred candidate will hold an undergraduate degree in recreation or a related field, supplemented by studies in administration, recreation, or business, plus eight (8) years of senior-level experience in a local or regional government setting, including at least five (5) years of supervisory experience. The successful candidate will have experience working with elected officials, boards, committees, and/or councils. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
The salary for this position is $195,551 to $224,400 and is supplemented by a competitive total compensation plan. This salary is based on the 2025 exempt management salary structure and does not reflect any potential annual adjustment for 2026 if approved by the Board.
Contact Details
Should you be interested in learning more about this unique opportunity, please contact Harbour West Consulting at 604-998-4032 or forward your resume and letter of introduction, in confidence, to info@hwest.ca
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion + Accessibility: Harbour West Consulting believe equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility are essential for the organizations we serve to achieve the business goals they strive for. We believe that everyone - no matter their gender, racialized identity, ethnicity, sexual orientation, age, ability, religion, political beliefs, family status, socioeconomic status, citizenship status, or Indigenous status – should have equitable access to our services, jobs, and opportunities. We strive to ensure processes unfold in a fair, transparent, timely, and open manner to include individuals previously underrepresented or discouraged from participating.
Applications
Letter of introduction and resume via email to us at info@hwest.ca
