Executive Director

About the role

The Bellevue Botanical Garden Society is seeking an experienced Executive Director to lead the organization through its next phase of growth and impact. The ED will oversee all programs, manage finances, and build partnerships to ensure the Garden remains a vibrant community resource.

Responsibilities

• Lead the creation and implementation of strategies, policies, and practices in collaboration with the board, staff, and the City of Bellevue to ensure organizational effectiveness.
• Manage a dedicated, passionate, and high-performing team of staff and volunteers.
• Oversee and direct all BBGS programs, ensuring mission alignment, effectiveness, and efficiency.
• Provide programs with SMART goals and objectives.
• Identify strategic or operational challenges and help craft and present solutions to the Board for consideration.
• Actively participate in and provide staff support for all Board committees.
• Oversee financial systems and controls, ensuring integrity and accuracy.
• Lead annual budgeting process with support of Treasurer and Board President.
• Review and implement financial policies and procedures.
• Ensure that all financial processes comply with nonprofit regulations and that published reports properly reflect the operating results and financial conditions of BBGS.
• Oversee all fundraising activities, manage systems, and implement tools for success.
• Strategically steward and cultivate major donors.
• Use clear and impactful communications to strengthen relationships and build trust with individual donors, foundations, and corporations.
• Identify staffing requirements needed to meet organizational priorities, while keeping within operational and financial constraints.
• Oversee employee hiring, training, performance management, communication, and problem resolution.
• Manage payroll, employee benefits, and all aspects of compensation.
• Create and implement a new, comprehensive fundraising strategy that will deepen relationships with donors and supporters, diversify the Society's revenue streams, fund the work described in the strategic plan, and ensure long-term financial sustainability.
• Create and implement a comprehensive marketing and communications plan that effectively promotes BBGS's mission, programs, and impact to a broad audience.
• Partner with Board leadership to strengthen Board practices, clarify roles, and continue to support the Board in its governance of the organization.

Requirements

Demonstrated experience successfully leading a nonprofit organization of similar size and complexity. Financial acumen: conversant with P&L statements and other financial reports, as well as budget development, management, and reporting. The ability to lead effectively both externally and internally. Serving as a visible leader within the Garden and broader community while also supporting staff and organizational operations. Strong HR knowledge and people management skills are important, including experience developing equitable staffing structures, transparent employment practices, and policies that align with nonprofit best practices. Experience advocating for and investing in employee wellbeing and professional development. Demonstrated fundraising and donor development experience. BBGS will benefit from continued diversification of funding sources to support long-term sustainability and growth. Strong collaboration and relationship-building skills, particularly the ability to work effectively with City leadership, staff, volunteers, donors, members, and community partners. Authentic, transparent, and approachable leadership with strong communication skills, emotional intelligence, and the ability to foster trust, consistency, and a positive organizational culture.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience, preferably in a nonprofit setting. A bachelor's degree in a related field is required, along with a master's degree preferred. Horticultural experience is not a requirement.

Skills

• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse group of stakeholders.
• Experience with fundraising and donor cultivation.
• Knowledge of nonprofit regulations and best practices.

Benefits

• 100% employer healthcare, dental, and vision plans.
• Employer paid life insurance.
• A retirement contribution match.
• Paid time off.

Pay

$120,000 - $140,000 annually, DOE

Schedule

Full-time, some evenings and weekends, occasional travel required.