What are the responsibilities and job description for the Executive Director position at Cedar Valley Arboretum and Botanic Gardens?
The Cedar Valley Arboretum and Botanic Gardens is seeking an Executive Director to manage all aspects of this 40-acre non-profit public garden. Started in 1996, it contains over 20 gardens, including a hillside welcome garden, children’s garden, rose garden, shade garden, and perennial display gardens. There is a Master Gardener’s orchard, a Stout day lily collection, and native prairie. It is a personal, family, and event destination.
The position reports directly to the Board of Directors. It is a salaried, exempt position with benefits including a 3% retirement plan match and paid time off.
We are looking for someone who is excited to promote our mission to enhance quality of life for all through horticulture, who will support our new Master Plan, and will lead our anticipated capital campaign. Salary will be negotiable commensurate with experience.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Develop and grow fundraising partnerships through grants, sponsorships, and major donations. Foster relationships with local businesses, residents, art and cultural organizations, and community organizations.
- Responsible for fiscal management of the Garden, including operating within the approved budget. Recommend the annual operating budget by working with the Finance Committee, for final review and adoption by the Board of Directors. Oversee bookkeeping, expenditures and income, and work with the accountant to file annual tax return.
- Represent the Garden in communications with all key stakeholders, including Hawkeye Community College and the City of Waterloo. This includes providing information to the media and leading garden tours.
- Provide monthly reports to the Board, communicating with the Board on all significant Garden developments.
- Assist in developing event, educational, and cultural initiatives. Add to membership base.
- Other duties as assigned by the Board.
Education and Experience
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree, with relevant work and management experience. Grant writing and fundraising/capital campaign experience desired. Non-profit experience also a plus.
- Strong IT skills, and office and financial management skills. Good time management.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Experience with multi-tasking, and flexible approach to the role. Evening and weekend work will be needed at times.
- Human relationship skills.
Application instructions:
- Send resume and application letter to Eliz Guyer, eliz@cedarvalleyarboretum.org
- Employment is subject to successful completion of background checks.
- Application deadline is April 5th, 2025
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From $60,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Flexible schedule
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
Schedule:
- Holidays
- Monday to Friday
- Weekends as needed
Education:
- Bachelor's (Required)
License/Certification:
- Driver's License (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $60,000
