Executive Director of Chatfield Farms

About Denver Botanic Gardens

Founded in 1951, Denver Botanic Gardens stands as a leading botanical institution in the United States, renowned for pioneering water conservation efforts. Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, the Gardens span 24 urban acres featuring expansive living plant, natural history, and art collections, accompanied by rotating art exhibitions. It offers distinctive garden experiences, world-class educational programs, conservation research, and family activities.

Rooted in core values of sustainability, diversity, relevance, and transformation, Denver Botanic Gardens is committed to environmental stewardship, inclusivity, meaningful community engagement, and evolving public garden excellence.

Role Overview

The Executive Director of Chatfield Farms holds a pivotal leadership position responsible for overseeing the site's operations, growth, and staff development. This role involves close cooperation with Denver Botanic Gardens leadership to ensure the delivery of quality education, research, ecological restoration, agriculture, facility management, and event programs aligned with the Gardens' mission and financial goals. The position includes maintaining strategic collaborations with the United States Army Corps of Engineers (the landowner) and fostering community partnerships.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all daily site operations and collaborate with senior Gardens leaders.
• Develop and execute Chatfield Farms' business and strategic plans, including annual budgeting.
• Coordinate with Mission Leaders to approve projects and events that uphold institutional excellence.
• Engage with Development team for fundraising and supporter relations.
• Build community alliances through event attendance and public presentations.
• Lead and motivate diverse staff teams across events, operations, horticulture, and agriculture to enhance visitor experiences.
• Implement long-term operating plans and participate in multi-million-dollar capital improvement projects.
• Manage and oversee architects, contractors, and consultants to deliver projects on schedule and within budget.
• Supervise complex programming and maintain strategic water resource management, including acquisition opportunities in the South Platte River Basin.
• Ensure safety, security, and policy development for all site employees and visitors.
• Represent Denver Botanic Gardens and Chatfield Farms at meetings, committees, and public forums.
• Promote a culture of accountability, innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Mentor managers and cultivate future organizational leadership.
• Maintain a positive, solution-oriented approach in all interactions and uphold the mission to connect people with plants.
• Adhere to regular on-site attendance, with remote work subject to management discretion and contingent on performance.

Required Qualifications and Skills

• At least 12 years of management experience in operations, farm management, horticulture, sustainability, or related fields.
• Demonstrated success in managing an independent public-facing site.
• Proven experience with major capital projects, financial planning, and budget oversight.
• Strong leadership abilities to hold teams accountable, foster development, and motivate diverse groups.
• Exceptional customer service, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Capacity to maintain composure and flexibility under pressure and during schedule changes.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel up to 25%, including to remote or varying environments.
• Preferred: Master’s degree, non-profit leadership experience, farm management, and familiarity with federal land management relations.

Additional Information

Travel demands may reach up to 25%, often to remote or other Gardens locations with diverse conditions. The position requires flexibility including working evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance options.
• Flexible and healthcare spending accounts available.
• Generous retirement plan with a 6% company contribution after one year.
• Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage and employee assistance programs.
• RTD ECO pass and complimentary Denver Botanic Gardens membership for eligible employees.
• Access to Gardens education programs and summer concert tickets.

Application Details

Applications are accepted until August 28, 2026, or until a suitable candidate is found.