JOHN WILLIAMS JR
LAKELAND
Summary
Passionate Parks and Recreation Professional with extensive experience in recreation management and team leadership. Recognized for a proven ability to organize impactful community events that significantly boost participant engagement and satisfaction. Expertise in managing diverse teams while skillfully adapting to evolving needs, ensuring a consistently positive and productive environment. Committed to fostering community connections and enhancing recreational opportunities for all.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Recreation Supervisor (Assistant Superintendent of Recreation)
City of Lakeland
01.2021 - Current
- Oversee 49 FTEs and 89 non-FTEs in the Recreation division.
- Plan and provide clear expectations in operations, budgets, facilities maintenance, hiring processes, time and attendance, discipline procedures, programming, activities, and community events.
- Develop and review the Recreation division budget, establishing the calendar year fee structure. Determine budget carryovers and allocations for each facility.
- Lead in the implementation and management of the revenue POS system for the Recreation division (RecTrac).
- Created the City of Lakeland’s Esports business plan while assisting the Recreation Manager in presenting the plan to sponsors. Eventually being awarded $74,900 from Mid-Florida Credit Union.
- Researched, wrote, and received the USTA Tennis Venue Services resurfacing court grant for $62,000.
- Assisted Assistant Director in writing and submitting the 2026-2027 FRDAP grant for $200,000.
- Provide capital project updates to City Management.
- Build and strengthen community support and relationships.
Senior Recreation Supervisor
City of Lakeland
01.2018 - 01.2021
- Led recreational programming initiatives, enhancing community engagement and participation rates.
- Managed budgets for recreational programs, optimizing resource allocation and expense tracking for efficiency.
- Developed and implemented innovative activities for diverse age groups, promoting physical health and social interaction.
- Coordinated special events such as holiday celebrations or sporting tournaments, driving increased attendance and fostering a sense of community pride.
- Maintained safe facilities by conducting regular inspections and addressing any issues promptly, ensuring a secure environment for all participants.
- Established efficient communication channels between staff members and volunteers, facilitating seamless coordination during large-scale events or complex projects.
P.A.L. Coordinator (Recreation Supervisor)
City of Lakeland
01.2014 - 01.2018
- Oversaw operations of the Police Athletic League of Lakeland, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, ensuring alignment with mission and community goals.
- Prioritized and managed multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring all met their deadlines and objectives without compromising quality.
- Contributed to the preparation, acquisition, and management of federal grants; supported fundraising initiatives and cultivated potential sponsorship opportunities.
- Improved resource allocation by developing detailed inventory management system, ensuring projects had necessary materials without overstocking.
- Supervised, trained, and evaluated staff, contract personnel, and volunteers to ensure high performance and program effectiveness.
- Built and sustained strategic partnerships with local businesses and community organizations.
Recreation Coordinator (Athletics)
City of Lakeland
01.2011 - 01.2014
- Collaborated in planning, developing, and overseeing a comprehensive, year-round countywide recreation program serving diverse age groups and interests.
- Coordinated seasonal programs and events, including the Summer Recreation Program, youth and adult sports leagues and tournaments, and various special events.
- Managed operations of youth sports organizations utilizing Polk County facilities, ensuring compliance with contracts, scheduling, insurance requirements, coach training, and organizational bylaws.
- Designed and implemented sponsorship packages for Leisure Services events and programs; assisted in volunteer recruitment, training, and event promotion.
- Responded to public inquiries, requests, and concerns regarding recreational programs, ensuring high-quality customer service and community engagement.
Education
Master's Degree - Public Administration
Barry University
Certified Public Manager - undefined
Florida Society of Certified Public Managers
Certified Parks and Recreation Professional - undefined
NRPA
Bachelor's Degree - Strength and Conditioning
University of Findlay
Skills
- Collaborative strategic planning
- Comprehensive facility oversight
- Strategic team guidance
- Effective communication
- Cross-functional teamwork
- Trustworthy performance
- Versatile approach
- Informed decision-making
Timeline
Recreation Supervisor (Assistant Superintendent of Recreation)
City of Lakeland
01.2021 - Current
Senior Recreation Supervisor
City of Lakeland
01.2018 - 01.2021
P.A.L. Coordinator (Recreation Supervisor)
City of Lakeland
01.2014 - 01.2018
Recreation Coordinator (Athletics)
City of Lakeland
01.2011 - 01.2014
Certified Public Manager - undefined
Florida Society of Certified Public Managers
Certified Parks and Recreation Professional - undefined
NRPA
Bachelor's Degree - Strength and Conditioning
University of Findlay
Master's Degree - Public Administration
Barry University