Director of Administration & Operations

Gardens are an essential part of the human experience. We visit gardens to find peace and healing, to be with friends and family and to better understand and connect with the natural world. Plants shape how we live, what we notice, and how we care for one another.

Right now, we are building something extraordinary in Seattle: an exceptional organization that brings together the unique strengths of the Arboretum Foundation and the University of Washington Botanic Gardens. We are joining forces to become a destination garden, exemplifying leadership in scientific research, public engagement, and inclusive access. Our vision is to be a home for learning, a force for sustainability, and a gateway to wonder. In every visit and through every season, we’ll help people of all ages meaningfully connect with the living world of plants and how they shape our lives and our shared future.

The Director of Operations will be a key strategist and leader for the Seattle Botanic Gardens, responsible for building out an organization capable of supporting the work of 100+ staff with a budget of more than $10 million. This position will play a critical role in the creation and design of a new organization, its workflows and culture. The Director of Operations will also manage capital projects ranging from trail development to a $100+ million public works project.

This position oversees the daily operations of the organization, ensuring efficiency, compliance and strategic alignment to mission. This leadership role involves managing financial processes, human resources, facilities, technology and program support to ensure that programs, fundraising and administration function effectively and that staff have confidence in their ability to deliver on mission.

The Director of Operations works closely with the Chief Executive Officer, Director of Finance and other members of the leadership team, including the Director of Advancement, Director of Education and Interpretation, Director of Communications, and Curator of Living Collections.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Operational Leadership

• Partner with the CEO and executive leadership to shape and execute the organization’s strategic plan
• Translate strategic goals into actionable implementation plans, performance metrics (KPIs), and integrated accountability systems
• Lead the development and execution of annual operating plans that align with long-term strategic objectives
• Serve as a key advisor to the CEO on operations, cross-functional coordination, and executive team effectiveness
• Lead the design and implementation of decision-making frameworks, delegation models, and internal operating structures that foster clarity, agility, and collaboration
• Build organizational capacity through scalable systems, talent strategies, and infrastructure that support long-term impact

Departmental Oversight and Staff Management

• Provide direct leadership and supervision for key operational departments and staff, including Human Resources, Information Technology, Finance and Facilities
• Ensure HR strategies, including talent development and organizational culture, are aligned with enterprise needs and values
• Oversee the organization's information technology function and staff, ensuring secure, scalable, and future-ready infrastructure, including data and digital systems aligned with strategic objectives
• Develop, implement, and evaluate operational policies and procedures to promote organizational efficiency and effectiveness
• Strengthen internal coordination and strategic alignment during periods of rapid growth, planning transitions, or complex initiatives

Compliance and Risk Management

• Ensure organizational compliance with legal, funding, and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with executive leadership to develop/update and implement organizational policies and related training; ensure compliance with applicable regulations and appropriately manage operational risk in the areas of COO purview

Project Management

• Manage major facilities and capital projects, including implementation of a complex, multi-million-dollar public works project to meet community-based objectives and maintain quality standards
• Build and sustain strong relationships with public agencies, local tribes, community partners, and other stakeholders
• Represent the organization in public forums, negotiations, and interagency collaborations

DESIRED SKILLS

• Strong understanding of nonprofit financials, compliance, and fundraising
• Excellent leadership, organizational, and communication skills
• High EQ with strong interpersonal, negotiation, and diplomacy skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and work collaboratively across teams, change work priorities as new assignments arise, meet successive deadlines, problem-solve, and multi-task
• Good judgement and the ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with professionalism and discretion
• Detail-oriented, attention to accuracy
• A growth mindset and openness to learning and giving and receiving timely feedback
• Work as a leader and member of a team with a strong collaborative and customer service orientation
• A commitment to participating in anti-racism work and supporting teammates in operationalizing DEI strategies
• Knowledge of relevant legal and regulatory frameworks governing nonprofits
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, nonprofit management software, and data management tools
• Familiarity with or passion for plant life, nature, public gardens, science, or conservation a plus

DESIRED EXPERIENCE

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive leadership experience, including executive-level responsibility overseeing multi-disciplinary, cross-functional teams in complex or mission-driven organizations
• Demonstrated success in overseeing complex, multi-year infrastructure or public works projects
• Strong financial acumen and experience managing multimillion-dollar budgets
• Exceptional organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Proven success in senior operations, organizational strategy, or administration roles, with experience translating strategic plans into operational execution and measurable results
• Demonstrated track record of building, coaching, and supporting high-performing leadership teams and fostering enterprise-wide alignment

BENEFITS

• Generous paid vacation, sick time and holidays
• Medical, dental, and vision
• Matching retirement contribution
• Office located in a beautiful gardens setting