Huntsville Botanical Garden (HBG) is a 112-acre community garden, third on the list of Alabama's top paid tourist attractions. It  is open year-round and features a picturesque, state of the art guest center, the nation’s largest open-air butterfly house, a picture-perfect aquatic garden, spectacular nature trails, numerous specialty gardens and a variety of plant collections.

The Chief Executive Officer is  a leader who excels in community engagement and can articulate, advocate and inspire others to support the Garden’s success. The CEO provides leadership and support to the Board and staff, sets the culture for the Garden and creates a welcoming environment for all.  This individual has a proven ability to lead employees through change and develop a team of highly professional, competent and accountable staff. The ability to carry out plans while instilling a culture of accomplishment is critical. The CEO must be an exceptional communicator and listener, whose passion for the Garden is evident by an ability to clearly and enthusiastically articulate the HBG vision. 

The successful candidate must be warm, welcoming, approachable and highly engaging.  This is a high-energy position requiring a forward thinking, dynamic individual who is comfortable working collaboratively with a variety of constituents.  The CEO must be a leader who will sustain and nurture critical relationships with volunteers and all major stakeholders including donors and members. Of significant importance is the ability to transform ideas into goal-driven, measurable project outcomes. Solid demonstrated skills in operations and business management are expected. Business acumen sufficient to analyze, develop, and prioritize future recommendations to the Master Plan is required.

An affinity for the mission of public gardens or museums is key to inspire others to support and participate in the mission. Knowledge of best practices and new trends in the management of cultural resources is also highly regarded. While a focus on financial sustainability is a key priority, achieving a sensitive balance to remain a true Garden for the community remains a must.  

Duties and responsibilities include strategic decision making, from basic infrastructure improvements to large-scale program initiatives; developing revenue sources from major individual gifts, corporate sponsorships, foundation support, government grants, and alternative sources; analyzing, developing, and prioritizing future recommendations to the Master Plan; mentoring and supporting the team and appreciating the strength and loyalty of staff; building on internal and external communication strategies; driving growth and maintaining accountability for the organization’s overall operational and fiduciary integrity; and working with community leaders and leadership of the region’s other attractions to draw out-of-region and out-of-state visitors to the Garden and Garden events.        

Public garden, horticulture or natural science experience is not a requirement but is definitely looked upon as a positive attribute.

Applications and nominations are being received by Kittleman & Associates, LLC. To apply, submit a cover letter and resume at https://ww2.kittlemansearch.com/Jobs

For more information about Huntsville Botanical Garden, visit http://hsvbg.org/