Job Description

Seattle Botanic Gardens* President & CEO

Join Valtas as the inaugural President & CEO of Seattle Botanic Gardens (SBG), a prestigious nonprofit botanical institution. The role reports to the Board of Directors, manages approximately 50 staff, and oversees an annual operating budget of about $9million (FY2026).

SBG is the result of merging the University of Washington Botanic Garden and The Arboretum Foundation. This leadership will unite a nationalsignificance institution that includes:

• The 230acre Washington Park Arboretum with more than 40,000 plants from 107 countries
• The Center for Urban Horticulture with research facilities, a Rare Care plant conservation program, and a seed vault
• The 74acre Union Bay Natural Area, a top birdwatching spot on Lake Washington
• The Seattle Japanese Garden, a 3.5acre traditional stroll garden
• An upcoming 28acre Montlake Peninsula site planned for 2031

Leadership Profile

The new CEO will inspire, unite people, and lead strategic. They will:

• Guide integration of the two organizations into a single entity and promote national influence
• Advance ambitious capital projects, including raising $100150million for the Montlake Peninsula expansion
• Build partnerships and secure fundraising to sustain and grow programs and plant collections
• Foster a culture of inclusivity and equity while caring for staff and community stakeholders

Qualifications

We seek visionary leaders who:

• Have extensive experience in nonprofit executive leadership, fundraising, and strategic planning
• Demonstrate a record of inspiring others and building collaborative teams
• Have a deep passion for botany, science, and public education
• Hold strong communication and relationshipbuilding skills with diverse constituencies

Applicants who do not meet every listed qualification are encouraged to apply.

Total Compensation & Benefits

Annual salary range: $250,000$290,000, depending on experience.

Benefits include:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement plan with employer contribution
• Generous paid time off
• Professional development support

Application Process

The position remains open until filled, with a priority deadline of January9,2025 . To apply, please submit:

• A cover letter (two pages or fewer) addressed to the President & CEO Search Committee
• Your resume

Cover Letter Focus:

• Why you are interested in this role?
• How your experience aligns with our mission and values?
• What would you bring to this moment in our organizations history?

Questions may be directed to EdRogan (ed@valtasgroup.com) or ChrisCannon (chris@valtasgroup.com).

Job Tags

Similar Jobs