Rose Bowl Aquatics Center Executive Ranks Shuffled as Director Resigns

The Rose Bowl Aquatics Center is undergoing an immediate leadership transition following the resignation of Executive Director and President Jimmy Francis. The announcement came in a Tuesday email from Robert A. Kamins, Chair of the Board for the 2024-2025 term.

According to Kamins, Francis informed the Board last week of his decision to “pursue a new entrepreneurial business opportunity.” 

The resignation marks the end of Francis’s three-year tenure, during which he made significant contributions to the Center’s operations and programming.

“Today the RBAC is a stronger and more vibrant organization as a result of Jimmy’s endeavors,” Kamins stated in his email to the community. 

He expressed gratitude for Francis’s leadership efforts and the advancements made under his direction.

To ensure a smooth transition, the Board of Directors is working closely with Francis and other members of the executive team, Kamins said.

Melanie Sauer, the center’s Chief Financial Officer, has agreed to serve as Interim Executive Director effective Sept. 9, to enable advisory overlap with Jimmy Francis.

The interim leadership team also includes Arvin Varma, the Chief Operating Officer, along with other managers and coaches. Kamins assured stakeholders that the center will “proceed with minimal interruption as responsibilities shift and resource decisions are made.”

The Board plans to form a search committee to conduct a national executive search for a new Executive Director. Kamins promised to keep the community informed as the process unfolds, stating, “Thank you for your continued involvement and dedication to the RBAC Community.”

The Rose Bowl Aquatics Center, established in 1990, is a cornerstone of aquatic activities in Pasadena. Located adjacent to the Rose Bowl Stadium, it serves over 450,000 patrons annually with a wide range of programs and facilities.

The center boasts two Olympic-size pools, a diving well, and a therapy pool. It offers swimming lessons, competitive teams, and programs for special needs individuals, catering to a diverse community of children, youth, families, and seniors.