Lead Parks & Recreation in One of Long Island’s Most Iconic Communities

The Village of Garden City, New York—an architecturally rich, community-centered suburb just 25 miles from Manhattan—is seeking an experienced and visionary leader to serve as its next Chairman of Recreation and Parks.

With a legacy of excellence and a newly adopted Recreation Master Plan, Garden City offers a rare opportunity to shape the future of parks, wellness, and community life in a setting that blends tradition with forward-thinking progress. This role oversees an $8.5M department with 80 staff, including 46 full-time employees, and a vast array of facilities—from historic parks and athletic complexes to cultural programming and urban forestry.

The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in parks administration, capital project management, team leadership, and community engagement. Garden City is looking for someone who balances strategic vision with day-to-day operational excellence, and who can champion inclusivity, sustainability, and innovation across all programs. Experience with senior services, public-private partnerships, and facility upgrades is a plus. CPRP certification and a degree in a related field are preferred.

This is more than a job—it’s a chance to lead in a nationally respected community with top-tier schools, high civic pride, and a commitment to quality of life. Join a supportive leadership team and make a visible, lasting impact in one of New York’s premier villages.

Apply Now:

If you’re ready to lead, we encourage you to apply! Submit your cover letter, resume, and references to ian@pracademicpartners.com with the subject line: Village of Garden City. Please format your files as: First Name Last Name_filetype

Priority consideration will be given to applications received by August 21, 2025, but the position will remain open until filled. Confidential inquiries are welcome. Learn more at https://www.gardencityny.net/