Job Description
Recreation has an outstanding opportunity for an Assistant Director for Waterfront Experience & Outreach to join their team.
About this Opportunity
Reporting to the Associate Director, the Assistant Director for Waterfront Experience & Outreach is responsible for leading marketing, outreach, and guest experiences for some of UW Recreation’s most visible and unique programs and venues, including the ASUW Shell House, Waterfront Activities Center (WAC), WAC Boating & Rentals, and UWild Field programs. This role combines strategic leadership, event and revenue development, student engagement, and outdoor recreation operations to create welcoming and memorable experiences for the UW community and guests.
This position reports to the Associate Director, serves on the department’s Extended Executive Team, and interacts with department staff on all initiatives related to the auxiliary operational needs for Recreation.
Job responsibilities require the ability to perform tasks independently during variable working hours with a schedule to potentially include early mornings, evenings, and weekends. On-site work is required.
Key Responsibilities:
ASUW Shell House 50%
Develop and implement sales strategies, marketing initiatives, and outreach efforts designed to increase bookings, expand community engagement, and drive revenue growth for the ASUW Shell House.
Prepare and analyze sales, forecasting, utilization, and revenue reports to monitor performance, identify trends, and support strategic decision-making and long-term financial planning.
Monitor industry trends, market conditions, client feedback, and competitor activity to identify opportunities for program enhancement, improved customer experience, and increased market visibility.
Develop and implement strategies to meet or exceed annual revenue, utilization, and customer satisfaction goals while balancing operational priorities and facility stewardship.
Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with clients, campus partners, vendors, and community organizations while actively developing new business opportunities and partnerships.
Personnel 20%
Directly supervise full-time staff and student staff. Provide functional leadership to all areas of supervision. Assist with and offer counsel and strategic advising to employees regarding creating policies and procedures, developing new programming, performance management, etc.
Ensure employees have proper up-to-date University required training and department specific training.
Direct employees and schedules to meet University and Collective Bargaining Agreement employee requirements.
Marketing & Communications 15%
Develop and implement the department’s marketing, communications, and business development strategic plans for both internal and external audiences, including initiatives related to the ASUW Shell House.
Lead proactive outreach, relationship building, and sales strategies to secure partnerships, sponsorships, and rental opportunities – particularly for the ASUW Shell House and the Waterfront Activities Center as well as other recreation programs and services.
Oversee the department’s website, apps, business pages, and social media efforts, both current and emerging.
Interact regularly and positively with Rec staff and students to accomplish marketing and communication goals.
Serve as the departmental contact to promote Rec offerings and activities at on- and off-campus outreach events (e.g., tabling at fairs, vetting sponsorship opportunities, etc.).
Represent Rec across campus by participating in and contributing to relevant committees and learning communities.
Budgeting 10%
Provide strategic support to area Managers in their preparation of budgets. Drive revenue growth across all functional units through strategic planning, execution, and optimization of services and offerings.
Prepare an annual budget for the Marketing & Communications area. Project expenditures in staffing, software, equipment and contract services, as well as revenues.
Maintain internal control of all expenditures and ensure fiscal responsibility and compliance
Operations 5%
Required Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity your application must demonstrate you meet both the minimum qualifications and additional qualifications listed below. Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.
Minimum Qualifications
Applicants who do not meet these qualifications WILL NOT be forwarded to the Hiring Department.
Bachelor’s degree.
A minimum of 4 years of progressively responsible professional experience in one or more of the following areas: marketing and communications, event venue operations, outreach and business development, hospitality or guest experience management, or recreation administration.
Additional Qualifications:
Working knowledge of scheduling and recreation management software
Possess interpersonal skills to work effectively with a diverse group of students, faculty, staff, and colleagues.
Strong communication, organizational, and leadership/management skills.
About the Team:
The team at University of Washington Recreation is a dynamic, student-centered department committed to building community, fostering well-being, and creating inclusive opportunities for engagement across campus. Staff members collaborate across functional areas to deliver high-quality programs and services that support the holistic development of the UW community. The team values innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement, empowering both professional and student staff to take initiative, grow as leaders, and contribute meaningfully to a vibrant campus experience.
Compensation, Benefits and Position Details
Pay Range Minimum:
$80,004.00 annual
Pay Range Maximum:
$84,000.00 annual
Other Compensation:
Benefits:
For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-uw-staff/
Shift:
First Shift (United States of America)
Temporary or Regular?
This is a regular position
FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):
100.00%
Union/Bargaining Unit:
Not Applicable
About the UW
Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.
UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty.
Our Commitment
The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81 .
To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or [email protected] .
Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law .
