AST DIR, Multipurpose Facility

The University of Florida, College of Medicine invites applications for the position of Assistant Director to join our esteemed leadership team at Wilmot Botanical Gardens in August 2024. This multifaceted leadership role involves collaborating with the Director and steering committee to craft the strategic vision for our eight specialty gardens, conference center, and greenhouse, and ensuring alignment with the facility's mission and overarching goals. Leveraging a discerning eye for horticultural excellence, you will assist in plant selection, enhancements, and ongoing care and maintaining an optimal visual appearance throughout all seasons. Responsibilities encompass overseeing staff, facilities management, preventive maintenance, and security procedures to ensure a safe and secure environment. Active involvement in strategic initiatives, fundraising events, and budget management defines this impactful role.

The ideal candidate holds a Master's degree in a horticulture discipline, possesses a minimum of four years in a leadership role in a major public garden, and brings hands-on experience in public garden settings, landscaping, and project management. Join us in fostering community engagement, contributing to the beauty and mission of Wilmot Botanical Gardens, and leading a dedicated team towards continued success.

About This Role

Specialty Gardens Oversight

• Assist in the development and implementation of a strategic vision for the specialty gardens, conference center, and greenhouse in collaboration with the Director and the steering committee, aligning with the overall mission and goals of the facility.
• Establish and oversee work assignments for gardener/groundskeeper(s), volunteers, and FWS students, ensuring efficient and effective operations in concert with the Director.
• Design and implement enhancements for specialty gardens, maintaining an optimum visual appearance throughout all seasons in concert with the Director.
• Exercise leadership in plant selection, planting, and ongoing care in each specialty garden, demonstrating a keen eye for horticultural excellence.
• Ensure comprehensive maintenance of specialty gardens and the overall garden, collaborating with UF Grounds and other relevant entities for specialized tasks.
• Supervise the selection and application of herbicides and insecticides, adhering to sustainable and environmentally conscious practices.
   
• Identify and engage appropriate external vendors for garden maintenance and enhancements when necessary, fostering strategic partnerships in concert with the Director.

Facilities Management and Security

• Collaborate with garden staff to identify and address maintenance issues in the greenhouse, conference center, and storage areas, ensuring seamless operations.
• Liaise with UF personnel and external vendors to promptly address and resolve maintenance problems, maintaining the highest standards of facility upkeep.
• Develop preventive maintenance schedules for critical systems, including air-conditioning, heating, and lighting in buildings, to ensure uninterrupted functionality.
• Establish and enforce security procedures for the gardens and facilities, defining staff responsibilities to guarantee a safe and secure environment.

Strategic Initiatives and Administration

• Actively contribute to the planning and execution of semi-annual plant sales, leveraging expertise to enhance the success of these events.
• Participate in the selection and acquisition of equipment for the maintenance of gardens, ensuring alignment with budgetary considerations and operational needs.
• Conduct engaging garden tours for visitors and actively participate in fundraising events, promoting the facility's mission, and fostering community engagement.
• Serve as a key member of the gardens' steering committee, providing valuable insights, and contributing to strategic decision-making.
• Working with the Director, develop and manage yearly budgets for garden and facility maintenance, demonstrating fiscal responsibility and alignment with organizational goals.
• Collaboratively with the Director, supervise and lead a team consisting of gardener/groundskeeper(s) and administrative specialist II (business manager), fostering a collaborative and high-performance work environment.

$65,000 - $70,000

Master’s degree in appropriate area of specialization and two years of appropriate experience or a bachelor’s degree in appropriate areas of specialization and four years of experience.

The ideal candidate will possess: 

• Master’s degree in a horticulture discipline, providing a comprehensive academic foundation for the horticultural aspects of the role.
• A minimum of four years in a leadership role of a major public garden, showcasing a proven track record of strategic planning and operational management.
• Two or more years of hands-on experience in a public garden or equivalent setting, highlighting practical knowledge and insights into the unique challenges and opportunities within such environments.
• Demonstrated landscaping experience, emphasizing a deep understanding of design principles and horticultural practices to enhance the visual appeal of specialty gardens.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively with leadership/committee, leveraging strong communication and interpersonal skills to contribute to strategic decision-making processes.
• Experience in project management, showcasing the ability to plan, execute, and oversee initiatives such as garden enhancements, facility maintenance, and strategic events.
• Proven experience in community engagement, such as conducting garden tours, participating in fundraising events, and fostering relationships with external stakeholders.
• Experience in creating and managing yearly budgets, showcasing financial acumen and the ability to allocate resources effectively to meet organizational goals.

To be considered, please upload the following documents with your application:

• Cover letter
• Resume
• Contact information for three professional references

If an accommodation due to a disability is needed to apply for this position, please call 352-392-2477 or the Florida Relay System at 800-955-8771 (TDD).

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.