Water Country Operations Director

About this role

Our story began 75 years ago when the Herschend family discovered wonder deep in an Ozark Mountain cave—and chose to share it with the world. Today, Herschend is the largest family-held themed attractions company, with over 40 leading attractions and immersive experiences that reach audiences worldwide.

While each brand offers something unique, all are united by a shared purpose: Bringing Families Closer Together by Creating Memories Worth Repeating® . Our passionate hosts make this purpose possible through everyday acts of love and service—what we call Heartspitality®—the intersection of heart and hospitality.

As an equal-opportunity employer, we strive to provide environments where every host, guest, and partner feel welcome, valued, and loved. We firmly believe that words and actions matter, which is why all individuals are to be treated equally and with respect.  The Director of Operations provides strategic leadership and oversight for all park operations, ensuring the safe, efficient and exceptional delivery of guest experience across the organization. This role is responsible for directing and coordinating all operational departments, including attractions, aquatics, park services, parking, security, and first aid, while driving operational excellence, workforce performance and continuous improvement initiatives.

We are currently looking for a:   Water Country Operations Director

Roles & Responsibilities:  

Herschend is the world’s largest family-held themed attractions company, with a portfolio of over 40 family entertainment brands across North America, including destinations, resorts, theme parks, water parks, immersive experiences, and content enjoyed by audiences worldwide.    While each of our family brands offers something unique, all are united by a shared purpose: Bringing Families Closer Together by Creating Memories Worth Repeating®. Our 22,000 passionate hosts make this purpose possible through everyday acts of love and service—what we call Heartspitality®—the intersection of heart and hospitality.    As an equal-opportunity employer, we strive to provide environments where every host, guest, and partner feels welcome, valued, and loved. We firmly believe that words and actions matter, which is why all individuals are to be treated equally and with respect. For more information, visit  www.hfecorp.com.    The Director of Operations provides strategic leadership and oversight for all park operations, ensuring the safe,   efficient   and exceptional delivery of guest experience across the organization. This role   is responsible for   directing and coordinating all operational departments, including attractions, aquatics, park services, parking, security, and first aid, while driving operational excellence, workforce performance   and continuous improvement initiatives.  

As the park’s senior operational leader and primary safety officer, the Director of Operations is also accountable for risk management, regulatory compliance and the development and execution of comprehensive safety programs   while supporting the park’s overall business objectives.  

Roles & Responsibilities  

• Provide strategic leadership and oversight for all park operations, partnering with the General Manager to develop, implement and continuously improve operational   procedures and performance standards  

• Direct the operations leadership team, including the Aquatics Manager, ensuring effective recruitment, training, certification and performance management of lifeguard   and operational staff   in accordance with   industry and regulatory standards  

• Develop, implement, and   maintain   standard operating procedures, permits, inspections, operational checklists, communication systems   and   required   signage for all attractions and facilities  

• Serve as the park’s designated Safety Officer, leading all health, safety, environmental and risk management programs to ensure compliance with corporate policies and all applicable federal, state, and local regulations  

• Conduct and document safety training, audits, inspections, incident investigations and safety committee meetings while fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement  

• Oversee insurance, workers’ compensation, claims administration, underwriting requirements and all related risk management documentation and reporting  

• Act as the primary liaison with law enforcement, fire, emergency medical services, regulatory agencies and other external partners;   maintain   all required operational licenses and certifications  

• Manage security operations, including third-party security providers, perimeter protection, guest and employee screening programs, emergency response preparedness and enforcement of park policies and codes of conduct  

• Ensure exceptional guest experiences by   maintaining   the highest standards of cleanliness, appearance, functionality and service across all guest-facing areas, including attractions, pools, restrooms, walkways, parking areas, and common spaces  

• Direct parking and transportation operations to maximize guest safety, traffic flow   and   efficiency  

• Lead long-range operational planning, capital improvement projects, contract administration and facility enhancement initiatives that support business growth and operational excellence  

• Develop,   manage   and   monitor   departmental labor and operating budgets, ensuring financial performance meets or exceeds annual business   objectives    

• P erform other duties as assigned  

Education & Training  

• Bachelor's degree in business administration ,   o perations   m anagement   or similar discipline highly desired; equivalent   combination of   education and work experience will   also   be considered   

• 3-5   years   progressive operations leadership experience, including at least one year in a senior management role overseeing complex, high-volume   operations   and   multidisciplina ry

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