President & CEO, San Diego Botanic Garden - Encinitas - Gilder Search Group

Description

Kittleman and Associates -Encinitas, CA, United States

Posted 12/22/25

San Diego Botanic Garden (SDBG), a nationally recognized leader in plant conservation, science, education, and public enjoyment, seeks a collaborative and visionary President & Chief Executive Officer to lead the Garden into its next chapter. Since its founding, SDBG has inspired communities through its gardens, educational programs, and conservation initiatives. Today, the Garden stands at an exciting moment in its history, offering a unique opportunity for a visionary CEO to shape its future and strengthen SDBG's facilities, collections, programs, and community impact for generations to come.

The President & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) will serve as the strategic and operational leader of SDBG, reporting directly to the Board of Directors. The CEO will be responsible for advancing the Garden's mission, vision, and values while providing executive leadership across all aspects of the organization, including fundraising, operations, program development, financial management, advocacy, and community engagement. Key opportunities include furthering momentum on Phase I of SDBG's Master Plan, with emphasis on a $35 million capital campaign to develop the new Science and Conservation Center and other key infrastructure components, ensuring the Garden remains fiscally sustainable while applying mission-driven criteria and financial rigor to evaluate opportunities.

As the organization continues its vital mission to connect people with plants and nature, it seeks an innovative and dynamic leader who can guide its growth and will inspire collaboration, elevate visibility, enhance cutting‑edge approaches in plant science, conservation, and education, and further expand a comprehensive vision for SDBG's central role in global botanic garden leadership. The Board seeks an experienced leader who is dedicated to SDBG's trajectory and will collaborate with the Board, staff, volunteers, donors, supporting organizations, civic leaders, and other partners to achieve the Garden's ambitious goals. This individual will have experience leading and directing complex organizations with diverse internal and external stakeholders.

The compensation range for this position annually is $300,000 - $325,000 and a comprehensive benefits package is offered, including health, dental, and vision insurance with SDBG covering 75% of the employee's individual premiums, paid holidays including the employee's birthday, vacation, and sick leave, a $10,000 life insurance policy, access to an Employee Assistance Program, and retirement through a 403(b) plan with up to 4% employer matching.

If you want to lead this impactful organization, please confidentially submit a current resume and cover letter to Kittleman & Associates. The cover letter is an opportunity to showcase your passion for SDBG and its mission, as well as your organizational expertise in current or prior roles.

The position will remain open until it is filled, but applicants are highly encouraged to submit their materials as soon as possible to ensure full consideration.

Posted: Monday, December 22, 2025
Job # 587