Athletics Director in Seattle, Washington at Washington Athletic Club

Athletics Director

Washington Athletic Club | Seattle, Washington

About the Washington Athletic Club

As one of the nation's premier private athletic clubs and a longstanding Seattle institution, the Washington Athletic Club (WAC) is more than a place to work—it's a place to belong.

Located in the heart of downtown Seattle, the WAC offers an exceptional array of amenities, including state-of-the-art fitness facilities, a swimming pool, three restaurants, a hotel, a spa, banquet and event spaces, and much more. Established in 1930, our beautifully maintained, 21-story landmark building reflects a proud tradition of excellence, community, and hospitality.

We seek talented, service-oriented professionals who are committed to excellence and embrace our five core values: Leadership, Excellence, Integrity, Service, and Sensitivity.

Position Overview

The Athletic Director is a key member of the Club's leadership team, responsible for the overall management, strategic direction, and daily operations of the Athletic Department. This position partners closely with the Executive Team, Athletic Committee, and member leadership to develop and execute strategic initiatives and business plans that support the Club's mission, vision, and long-term success.

The ideal candidate is a forward-thinking leader who brings innovation and vision while respecting and preserving the traditions that define the WAC. This individual recruits, develops, and inspires exceptional talent while providing the leadership, organization, and strategic direction necessary to deliver outstanding athletic programming and member experiences.

The Athletic Director is accountable for all aspects of departmental performance, including financial results, service excellence, staff development, and the care and maintenance of facilities and equipment. This leader fosters a culture of accountability, teamwork, and exceptional hospitality, ensuring that team members consistently deliver service that meets or exceeds WAC standards and complies with all Club policies and procedures.

Success in this role requires exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, sound judgment, and the ability to anticipate, understand, and resolve member and guest concerns. The Athletic Director builds meaningful relationships with members and guests through professionalism, empathy, sensitivity, and a genuine commitment to service. Above all, this individual creates an environment where memorable experiences and exceptional service are the standard.

Position Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Development

• Provide strategic leadership, direction, and accountability for all Athletic Department team members.
• Actively participate in departmental and leadership meetings, collaborating with the Executive Team and other departments to advance the Club's mission, vision, and core values.
• Recruit, train, mentor, and develop a high-performing team committed to professional growth and exceptional member service.
• Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, hospitality, and continuous improvement.
• Demonstrate a passion for teaching and training to enhance staff performance and member satisfaction.

Athletic Programming & Member Experience

• Develop and implement innovative athletic, fitness, and wellness programs that enhance the member experience and support the Club's strategic objectives.
• Ensure the quality, diversity, and effectiveness of athletic programming consistently meet or exceed member expectations.
• Oversee all team sports, athletic programs, and Clubs-within-the-Club.
• Proactively identify opportunities to enhance member satisfaction through new programs, services, equipment, and operational improvements.
• Build strong relationships with members and respond effectively to feedback, questions, and concerns.

Operations & Facilities Management

• Oversee the daily operations of all areas within the Athletic Department.
• Monitor facility cleanliness, preventative maintenance, equipment performance, and overall safety.
• Ensure compliance with Club safety policies and procedures while proactively identifying and addressing potential hazards.
• Evaluate staffing schedules, labor costs, and operational efficiencies to ensure appropriate resource allocation.
• Maintain department standards and ensure facilities and equipment are consistently presented at the highest level.

Financial Management & Strategic Planning

• Collaborate with the CFO and Executive Team in developing departmental operating and capital budgets.
• Develop, manage, and administer the approved operating budget, including staffing, revenue generation, cost controls, and departmental expenses.
• Monitor financial performance and implement strategies to achieve budgetary and operational objectives.
• Prepare an annual capital expenditure plan and collaborate with the CFO and Executive Team to prioritize, approve, schedule, and implement projects.
• Contribute to the development and execution of long-term strategic and business plans for the Athletic Department.

Committee & Special Event Leadership

• Partner with the Athletic Committee Chair to establish meeting agendas and provide regular departmental updates at committee meetings.
• Oversee the planning and execution of The Main Event, the M.A. Sorensen & Rudy Scholz Collegiate Rugby Player of the Year Awards, and other special events associated with Athletics.
• Represent the Athletic Department professionally in meetings, presentations, and Club events.

Position Qualifications

• Seven to ten years of progressive leadership experience in a private club, athletic facility, or similarly complex, multi-dimensional operation.
• Bachelor's degree in Sports Management or a related field required.
• Extensive knowledge of athletic operations, fitness and wellness programming, member relations, marketing strategies, business planning, budgeting, and strategic planning.
• Demonstrated success in recruiting, developing, and leading high-performing teams.
• Strong financial and operational management skills, including budget development, revenue generation, and expense control.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Proficiency with computers and relevant business and operational software.
• Confidence and professionalism when speaking and presenting to diverse audiences.
• A demonstrated commitment to hospitality, service excellence, and creating exceptional member experiences.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, demonstrate empathy, and effectively resolve member and guest concerns.

Benefits & Perks

The WAC offers a competitive benefits package for eligible full-time team members, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Life and short-term disability insurance.
• Paid Time Off (PTO), accruing at a rate of 0.0519 hours per hour worked, up to 108 hours annually.
• Nine paid holidays annually.
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• ORCA Passport transportation program.
• Optional pet insurance.
• Complimentary daily meal featuring a soup and salad bar.
• Discounts on spa services and products.

Join the Washington Athletic Club and become part of a team dedicated to excellence, community, and exceptional hospitality.