Executive Director

Overview

The Bellevue Botanical Garden Society is hiring an Executive Director to guide the organization’s next phase of growth and community impact in Bellevue, Washington. This full-time leadership role centers on advancing educational programming, visitor experience, fundraising, and membership engagement in support of one of the country’s leading botanical gardens.

About the Garden

The Bellevue Botanical Garden has evolved from the former home and property of Cal and Harriet Shorts, who donated the land to the City of Bellevue in 1981 so it could be shared with the public. Since opening in 1992, the Garden has expanded to 53 acres and developed exhibits in collaboration with organizations such as the Northwest Perennial Alliance, Eastside Fuchsia Society, Washington Native Plant Society, and King County Master Gardeners. It now welcomes more than 450,000 visitors each year from around the world.

About the Society

Founded in 1986, the Bellevue Botanical Garden Society supports the City of Bellevue by strengthening the connection between people and plants, raising funds for the Garden’s development, and delivering educational and community programs. In partnership with the City, the Society works to keep the Shorts’ original vision alive for future generations.

Role Summary

The Executive Director will lead the organization’s daily and long-term work, with a focus on connecting the community to the Garden through programs, visitor services, events, and member engagement. The role reports to the Board of Directors and works closely with the Board Chair and City of Bellevue leadership. The ED will manage a team that includes the Development Director, Youth & Children’s Education Manager, Adult Programs Manager, Visitor Services Manager, Marketing & Communications Manager, Trillium Store Manager, and contracted accounting and IT support.

The position also requires reviewing and improving internal systems and processes, supporting staff effectiveness, strengthening donor and funder relationships, and helping professionalize board operations through communication, coaching, mentorship, and member recruitment.

Compensation and Work Conditions

The salary range for this role is $120,000 to $140,000, depending on qualifications and experience. This is a salaried full-time position based in Bellevue, WA. Regular office presence is required, along with some evening and weekend work and occasional travel.

Benefits

The organization provides a strong benefits package that includes fully employer-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage, employer-paid life insurance, a retirement contribution match, and paid time off.

Application Details

The role is open until filled, and applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Early applications are encouraged, with initial screening interviews expected to begin by late June. Applicants should submit a resume and a cover letter of two pages or fewer addressed to the Board President.

If you are interested but do not meet every qualification, you are still encouraged to apply. For questions, contact Ed Rogan or Chris Cannon via the email addresses listed in the source posting.

Equal Opportunity Statement

BBGS is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes candidates of color, LGBTQ+ candidates, women, people with disabilities, and applicants of all religions and national origins.

Additional Notes

The posting also indicates that the position is full-time and salaried, with regular in-office attendance expected. Horticultural experience is not required.