SANCA chief operating officer takes job with Sarasota County parks, recreation

SARASOTA -- The chief operating officer of the nonprofit that runs Nathan Benderson Park has taken a job with Sarasota County.

Nicole Rissler, who has been the chief operating officer for Suncoast Aquatic Nature Center since July, will be the new deputy director of operations for Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources.

"I am thrilled to have the opportunity to join the Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources team and excited that I will be able to continue to have an active role in the success of Nathan Benderson Park along with all of the county's great parks, beaches and preserves," Rissler said in a news release.

Asked whether Rissler will be replaced, SANCA spokeswoman Melissa Mitchell said they couldn't give an "immediate response to whether or not we will be filling Nicole's position."

"At this point, we are working to evaluate our employment structure and what is going to be best for SANCA

moving forward," Mitchell said.

Rissler, who is expected to start in early May, will oversee five divisions including sports development and athletics; recreation and special events; natural area parks, preserves and trails; beaches and water access; and neighborhood parks and maintenance services, according to the release.

Prior to working for SANCA, Rissler worked at Visit Sarasota County.

"Nicole already has a great working relationship with the county and is very knowledgeable about how we operate from her experience with SANCA and Visit Sarasota County," Sarasota County Administrator Tom Harmer said in the release. "We look forward to her joining the county's team and serving the community in this role."

Rissler has also served in leadership positions with Sarasota Family YMCA and the America Red Cross as well as serving as the chairwoman for the county's Parks Advisory and Recreation Council.

"She is well known throughout the community and has a passion for parks," Parks, Recreation and Natural Services Director Carolyn Brown said in the release. "We welcome the opportunity to work with a professional who is bringing with her so many years of experience that have been invested into this community."

Claire Aronson, Manatee County reporter, can be reached at 941-745-7024. Follow her on Twitter @Claire_Aronson.

This story was originally published April 4, 2016 at 10:57 PM with the headline "SANCA chief operating officer takes job with Sarasota County parks, recreation ."