Joshua Bauman
Brookings
Summary
Strategic, relationship-driven leader with extensive experience directing large-scale operations, stewarding municipal resources, and advancing community-wide strategic initiatives. Demonstrated ability to unify diverse organizations, strengthen economic and civic vitality, and lead through transformational change. Adept at building cross-sector partnerships, optimizing complex systems, and aligning stakeholders around a shared mission. Recognized for integrity, strong governance skills, and a commitment to transparent, community-centered leadership.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Assistant Parks, Recreation and Forestry Director
City of Brookings
05.2011 - Current
- Strategic & Organizational Leadership
- Lead executive-level planning and administration of citywide parks, recreation, forestry, and public-space operations, impacting quality of life, tourism, and economic vitality.
- Contribute to long-range strategic planning, policy development, and capital investment strategies aligned with City growth and community vision.
- Serve as Acting Director, providing strategic oversight and executive decision-making across all departmental functions.
- Operational Excellence & Fiscal Management
- Oversee operational performance for multiple divisions, including staffing, scheduling, maintenance systems, and seasonal operations.
- Manage multimillion-dollar budgets with a focus on transparency, cost optimization, and responsible resource allocation.
- Lead major capital improvement projects—facility upgrades, infrastructure development, and environmental management.
- Stakeholder Engagement & Community Partnerships
- Establish strong relationships with business leaders, nonprofit organizations, tourism organizations, economic development groups, civic boards, and regional agencies.
- Represent the department in city council meetings, advisory boards, and community forums with professionalism and clarity.
- Guide public engagement strategies to enhance communication, foster trust, and align community needs.
- Team Development & Leadership Culture
- Supervise and mentor full-time, part-time, and seasonal staff, fostering a culture of accountability, innovation, and service excellence.
- Implement leadership development, workforce planning, and performance improvement systems to enhance organizational effectiveness.
Education
BS - Business Management & Leadership
AAS - Landscape Design
AAS - Horticulture Technology
Skills
- Organizational Integration
- Cross-Sector Collaboration
- Economic Development
- Strategic Planning
- Governance & Board Relations
- Operational Excellence
- Budget Leadership
- Community Engagement
- Public Policy Alignment
- Culture Building
- Change Management
- Executive Communication
Certification
- Certified Park & Recreation Professional
- Aquatic Facility Operator
- High-Performing Organizations
Timeline
Assistant Parks, Recreation and Forestry Director
City of Brookings
05.2011 - Current
BS - Business Management & Leadership
AAS - Landscape Design
AAS - Horticulture Technology
COMMUNITY & PROFESSIONAL LEADERSHIP
- Chair, Brookings Summer Arts Festival
- SDPRA Young Professional Award