Vice President of Horticulture & Conservation
Brookgreen Gardens is a national historic landmark in the heart of South Carolina's Lowcountry that blends four mission areas: botanical gardens, art, history, and the environment.
Recognized as one of the great public gardens in America and the nation's first public sculpture garden, Brookgreen was founded in 1931 by Archer Huntington and renowned sculptor Anna Hyatt Huntington. In its totality, Brookgreen encompasses over 9,000 acres: 50 cultivated garden acres with over 300 acres publicly accessible; 2,500 acres leased by Huntington Beach State Park; and remaining acreage designated as wildlife sanctuary. These natural areas include five forest ecotypes managed through best practices and conservation initiatives.
The Gardens are home to a nationally significant plant collection focused on native Lowcountry species, ornamental displays, and historically significant specimens. The Purdy Center & Conservatory, including a remarkable orchid collection, represents the institution's continued investment in horticultural excellence. Brookgreen also operates an AZA-accredited Lowcountry Zoo and maintains active partnerships in conservation, education, and community outreach across the region, including Coastal Carolina University, Horry-Georgetown Technical College, and state and federal natural resource agencies.
This is a rare opportunity for a horticulturist and conservation leader to make a direct and lasting impact across one of the most distinctive cultural landscapes in the American South. The Vice President of Horticulture & Conservation is the senior member of the Brookgreen management team responsible for the recommendation and implementation of the strategic direction for the institution's cultivated and natural landscapes. As an elected administrative officer of the corporation, a vice president provides advice and leadership on all matters affecting Brookgreen, interacts with the Board of Trustees, and shares responsibility for the success of the institution.
The plant collection for the botanical garden focuses on native Lowcountry plants as well as ornamental displays and preservation of historically significant garden specimens. The management of both conservation and botanical programming is led by the Vice President of Horticulture & Conservation. The position carries meaningful responsibility for the stewardship of over 9,000 acres and active conservation partnerships that extend well beyond the garden gates.
- Directs the horticultural development and maintenance of the Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington Sculpture Garden, The Purdy Center Great Hall, and other indoor plant displays, Lowcountry Center and Trail gardens and exhibits, public areas, and cultivated view sheds.
- Leads garden planning, development, and planting design including collaboration with donors, the Board of Trustees, and consultants; directs the execution, implementation, and maintenance of garden plans.
- Leads long-term strategic planning for Horticulture, Plant Collections, Landscape, Natural Areas, and Turf and Irrigation across the sculpture gardens, Lowcountry Zoo, Purdy Center & Conservatory, and all surrounding areas of the property.
- Directs the development and implementation of conservation management plans for flora, fauna, and their ecosystems throughout the natural areas owned by Brookgreen Gardens.
- Manages relationships with private organizations and with federal, state, and county agencies through the Director of Natural Areas, a joint employee with the state; partnerships include Coastal Carolina University, Horry-Georgetown Technical College, and a contracted forester.
- Adheres to all ethical requirements of Brookgreen Gardens, the American Association of Museums (AAM), and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and enforces similar adherence from all Division personnel.
- Develops and monitors the departmental budget; works with the Development team to seek grant opportunities, donor funding, and gifts-in-kind.
- Provides strategic direction and leadership to a team of directors responsible for horticultural operations, plant collections, landscape, natural areas, and conservation across the property.
- Champions horticultural programming, signature public events, and community education initiatives in partnership with institutional leadership and the VP of Creative Education.
Minimum of seven years of progressive experience including five years of management experience in a nonprofit setting, public garden, or similar institution. Bachelor's degree in horticulture, landscape architecture, or a related field required; master's degree preferred.
Substantial knowledge of landscape design and maintenance, horticultural practices, and the inventory of locally hardy plants; knowledge of conservation practices. Proven skills at achieving excellence in horticultural displays. Strong leadership ability with proven management skills in leading and developing staff and working with a highly motivated team. Ability to manage programs and employees successfully; communicate effectively orally and in writing; and work comfortably and effectively with the President, Trustees, donors, and co-workers. A demonstrated commitment to excellence and to high moral and ethical principles with an attitude of creativity, innovation, confidence, and entrepreneurship, and an ability to inspire and motivate donors, staff, and volunteers.
Send a cover letter, CV, and salary requirements to Darlene Borges at
[email protected] with Vice President of Horticulture and Conservation in the subject line. The position will remain open until filled. No phone calls, please.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
Brookgreen Gardens is committed to the principles of equal employment. We are committed to complying with all federal, state, and local laws providing equal employment opportunities, and all other employment laws and regulations.
