At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead Bok Tower Gardens, guiding strategic plans and overseeing a $10 million budget.
- Company: Iconic National Historic Landmark with a rich legacy in landscape architecture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunity to inspire, and engage with a vibrant community.
- Why this job: Make a lasting impact on a beloved institution as it approaches its centennial.
- Qualifications: Visionary leadership and experience in fundraising and community engagement.
- Other info: Join a passionate team dedicated to beauty, education, and wildlife preservation.
Bok Tower Gardens has welcomed more than 20 million visitors since its 1929 dedication by President Calvin Coolidge. Located near Lake Wales, Florida, and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1993, the Gardens began as a native plant preserve founded by Edward W. Bok to offer beauty, education, and refuge for people and wildlife. Designed by the Olmsted Brothers, the Gardens hold a significant place in American landscape architecture, with archival records among the largest in the National Olmsted Archives.
As the organization approaches its centennial in 2029, Bok Tower Gardens seeks its next President to lead the final phase of the 2022–2027 strategic plan, guide a $10 million annual budget, oversee fundraising and community engagement, and steward the Gardens’ historic legacy. This visionary, outward-facing leader will inspire staff, connect with donors and stakeholders, embrace innovation, and uphold the mission and values of this iconic institution.
Deadline: For best consideration, please submit your materials by February 20, 2026
Location: Lake Wales, FL, USA
Contract type: Permanent
Salary: US$235,000 – US$265,000
President - Bok Towers Gardens employer: Botanic Gardens Conservation International
Contact Detail:
Botanic Gardens Conservation International Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land President - Bok Towers Gardens
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with current or former employees of Bok Tower Gardens. Building relationships can open doors that applications alone can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for the mission! When you get the chance to chat with anyone from the organisation, make sure to express your enthusiasm for their work and how you can contribute to their vision. It’s all about making that personal connection.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the Gardens' history and current initiatives. Knowing the ins and outs will help you stand out as someone who truly cares about the legacy and future of Bok Tower Gardens.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and contributing to the Gardens’ incredible journey.
We think you need these skills to ace President - Bok Towers Gardens
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for Bok Tower Gardens shine through. We want to see how much you care about our mission and values, so share your personal connection to the Gardens or similar organisations.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application materials to reflect the specific requirements of the President role. Highlight your experience in leadership, fundraising, and community engagement, as these are key areas we’re looking for.
Be Clear and Concise: We appreciate clarity! Keep your writing straightforward and to the point. Use bullet points where appropriate to make your achievements stand out, and avoid jargon that might confuse us.
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of being considered, make sure to submit your application through our official website. This helps us keep everything organised and ensures your materials reach the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at Botanic Gardens Conservation International
✨Know Your History
Familiarise yourself with the rich history of Bok Tower Gardens. Understand its significance as a National Historic Landmark and the vision of Edward W. Bok. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Leadership Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous leadership roles, especially those involving budget management and strategic planning. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully guided teams or organisations through change, as this is crucial for leading the final phase of the strategic plan.
✨Engage with Community Insights
Since community engagement is key for this position, think about ways you've connected with stakeholders in the past. Bring ideas on how to enhance community involvement at Bok Tower Gardens, demonstrating your proactive approach to fostering relationships.
✨Embrace Innovation
Be prepared to discuss how you can bring innovative ideas to the Gardens. Whether it's through fundraising strategies or new educational programmes, showing that you're forward-thinking will resonate well with the interviewers looking for a visionary leader.