Eric Friedli selected as Shoreline’s new Parks Director

City Manager Debbie Tarry has selected Eric Friedli to be the City’s new Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Services Director. Friedli's selection is the culmination of an extensive search after Parks Director Dick Deal announced his retirement.

“I’m excited to have Eric join our team as the City’s new Parks Director,” stated Tarry. “He has an extensive background in strategic planning and management with the Seattle Parks and Recreation Department, which will be a great asset for us as we look toward the future.”Friedli’s first day of employment with the City will be Monday, February 2.

Friedli has worked for the City of Seattle for over 25 years, 15 of which he spent in the Parks and Recreation Department. Friedli is currently the Acting Deputy Superintendent for the City of Seattle Parks and Recreation Department.

He has been in this position since 2010. Previously, he served in various capacities in the Seattle Parks Department including as a Strategic Advisor, Enterprise Division Director (Golf Course, Special Events, Films, Picnic Shelters, Concessionaires, etc.), and Director of the Sand Point Magnuson Park programming and facilities. Early in his career, Friedli served in Seattle’s Office of Economic Development and Office of Long Range Planning.

"Shoreline has a great system of beautiful parks and fun recreation and cultural programs," stated Friedli. "I am excited to work with the Shoreline team to help keep up the great work they do every day. I am also looking forward to getting to know the residents of Shoreline and working with them to ensure we are providing what they need to keep Shoreline a place they like to call home."

The City received 36 applications for the position. Of those, staff identified nine candidates for initial screening. The City Manager then chose six semi-finalists to be interviewed by two panels and the City Manager. Three finalists were interviewed by representatives from the City’s Park Board and a second interview with the City Manager.