The City of Moorhead is excited to announce the appointment of Sean Brandenburg as the new Recreation Director. With a lifelong passion for parks and recreation and a deep-rooted connection to the community, Sean brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the role.
Sean’s journey in parks and recreation began early, spending summers on ball fields, park courts, and in municipal pools. A Fargo native, Sean attended Concordia College, where he became well-acquainted with Moorhead, even working as a seasonal mower and trimmer for Moorhead Parks during his college years.
Following his undergraduate studies, Sean pursued a master’s degree in Sport & Facility Management at the University of Northern Colorado. During his time there, he explored local parks, trails, and open spaces, solidifying his passion for recreation and community engagement. His professional career took off in Billings, Montana, where he spent nearly five years as a Recreation Specialist with the City of Billings Parks, Recreation, and Public Lands department.
The call to return home eventually led Sean back to Moorhead, where he took on the role of Youth Outreach Coordinator at Minnesota State University Moorhead. In addition to his professional experience, Sean has served on the Moorhead Parks & Recreation Advisory Board since 2023 and holds a Certified Parks and Recreation Professional (CPRP) designation from the National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA).
Sean is eager to step into his new role as Recreation Director, where he looks forward to enhancing Moorhead’s recreational programs, fostering community partnerships, and ensuring vibrant, accessible opportunities for all residents.
“We are thrilled to welcome Sean to the team,” said Dan Mahli, City Manager. “His passion for parks and recreation, combined with his deep understanding of the community, makes him an excellent fit to lead Moorhead’s recreation initiatives.”
Outside of work, Sean enjoys spending time at the lake with family and friends, as well as hiking, backpacking, and snowboarding in Montana. A lifelong Minnesota Vikings fan, he remains ever hopeful for a championship season. He and his wife, Richelle, live in Moorhead with their two pets, Scout and Brody.
Sean will begin his role on Thursday, February 27.