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- Tasks: Lead a team to design and maintain stunning native plant gardens.
- Company: Join the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, a hub for ecological conservation and education.
- Benefits: Enjoy a permanent position with opportunities for mentorship and professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting transformation in garden experiences and contribute to environmental conservation.
- Qualifications: Seeking a creative leader with expertise in horticulture and a passion for native plants.
- Other info: This role is perfect for those eager to make a real impact in ecological gardening.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center at The University of Texas at Austin seeks a Director of Gardens and Collections to shape the future of our garden experiences and living collections. This role will lead a talented team in designing, maintaining, and reimagining more than nine areas of formal and naturalistic native plant gardens that inspire visitors and support our mission.
We’re looking for a creative, conservation-minded leader with expertise in ecological horticulture, planting design, collections management, and resource conservation. Experience with native plants of the prairie states and southwestern U.S. is a plus, though the ability to quickly build regional knowledge is also key.
The director oversees living collections and nursery operations, mentors staff, and contributes to public education. This is an exciting time to join the Center as we prepare to implement a master plan built around creating inspiring new natural spaces and re-envisioning existing gardens.
Deadline: 1 September 2025
Contract type: Permanent
Location: Austin, TX, United States
Director of Gardens and Collections - Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center employer: Botanic Gardens Conservation International
Contact Detail:
Botanic Gardens Conservation International Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Gardens and Collections - Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the botanical and horticultural fields. Attend conferences, workshops, or local events related to native plants and conservation to meet potential colleagues and mentors who can provide insights into the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center's current projects and initiatives. Understanding their mission and recent developments will help you articulate how your vision aligns with theirs during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills by volunteering for roles that involve team management or project oversight. This experience will demonstrate your ability to lead a talented team effectively, which is crucial for this position.
✨Tip Number 4
Engage with the local community and stakeholders involved in conservation efforts. Building relationships with these groups can provide valuable insights and support for your application, showing your commitment to the role and its impact.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Gardens and Collections - Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take time to thoroughly read the job description for the Director of Gardens and Collections. Understand the key responsibilities, required skills, and the mission of the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center to tailor your application accordingly.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience in ecological horticulture, collections management, and any leadership roles you've held. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to lead a team and manage living collections effectively.
Showcase Your Passion: Express your passion for conservation and native plants in your application. Share any personal projects or initiatives that align with the mission of the Wildflower Center, as this will help you stand out as a candidate who truly cares about the role.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that your documents are well-organised and clearly formatted. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Botanic Gardens Conservation International
✨Show Your Passion for Conservation
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for ecological horticulture and conservation during the interview. Share specific examples of how you've contributed to similar projects in the past, as this will demonstrate your commitment to the mission of the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
✨Highlight Your Leadership Experience
As a director, you'll be leading a talented team. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully managed teams in previous roles. This could include mentoring staff or overseeing complex projects.
✨Demonstrate Knowledge of Native Plants
While experience with native plants of the prairie states and southwestern U.S. is a plus, showing your willingness and ability to quickly build regional knowledge is crucial. Research local flora and be ready to discuss how you would incorporate them into the garden's design.
✨Prepare Questions About Future Plans
Since the Centre is preparing to implement a master plan, come equipped with thoughtful questions about their vision for the future. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can contribute to their goals.
