ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR, COLLECTIONS at Longwood Gardens

Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, United States -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

08 Apr, 26

Salary

0.0

Posted On

08 Jan, 26

Experience

5 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Horticulture, Botany, Plant Sciences, Plant Collection Management, Climate Change Adaptation, Plant Taxonomy, Collections Management Software, Statistical Analysis, Conservation Practices, Team Collaboration, Mentoring, Communication Skills, Fieldwork, Germplasm Distribution, Research, Teaching

Industry

Zoos and Botanical Gardens

Description

As one of the great gardens of the world located just 30 miles outside of Philadelphia, Longwood Gardens is rooted in a steadfast mission of bringing joy and inspiration to everyone through the beauty of nature, conservation, and learning. Across our many departments, each and every staff member creates the magic that makes our Gardens distinctive. Our team of dynamic professionals is what sets us apart, and our spirit of legacy, innovation, and opportunity is what guides us. While beauty is our heart, our people are our soul. Longwood Gardens is seeking a full-time Associate Director of Collections to help shape the future of one of the world’s premier living plant collections. In partnership with the Director of Conservation Horticulture and Collections, this role provides strategic leadership for the development, stewardship, and long-term planning of Longwood’s living collections. Responsibilities include: * Reviewing, updating, and advancing the Living Plant Collections Policy and the Disaster Preparedness Plan, ensuring timely completion and required approvals * Developing and elevating the Core Collection Management Plans * Overseeing management plans for Longwood’s 12 core living collections, coordinating cross-departmental collaboration and approval processes * Leading the Plant Collection Network accreditation process. * Directing operations that support collections development, conservation horticulture, plant trials, and climate resilience initiatives. * Leading climate-focused initiatives, including development of Longwood’s climate change landscape succession plan and identification of climate-resilient taxa * Overseeing Germplasm Distribution Programs * Managing special requests for Longwood germplasm, including the Victoria Seed Distribution Program and requests from researchers and partner institutions. * Supporting plant exploration and conservation efforts * Participating in plant exploration expeditions and local fieldwork supporting collections development, climate initiatives, seed banking, and rare plant research. * Supervising and mentoring full-time staff, interns, students, and volunteers; oversee hiring, performance management, and professional development. * Publishing, teaching, and presenting on topics related to plant collections, research, and conservation. * Overseeing budgets related to assigned programs and areas of responsibility. * Perform other duties as assigned and work occasional weekends, holidays, and evenings. The ideal candidate will possess: * A Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. in horticulture, botany, or plant sciences. * A minimum of 5 years of experience in plant collection management within a public garden setting. * A valid driver’s license (required for operating Longwood vehicles on-site and on public roads). * Advanced knowledge of plant taxonomy, nomenclature, and identification across diverse plant groups (herbaceous, woody, temperate, tropical). * Experience with climate change adaptation planning and long-term strategic implementation. * Proficiency with collections management software (BG-Base, BG-Map, and/or BRAHMS preferred). * Strong Microsoft Office and related software skills. * A demonstrated ability to write for peer-reviewed, professional, and public audiences; strong teaching and communication skills. * Experience with statistical analysis and relevant software. * An expertise in applied and theoretical plant conservation practices. * The proven ability to collaborate across teams while effectively leading and mentoring staff. * A minimum of 3 years of experience managing staff, students, or volunteers. * The ability to work in various environmental conditions * The ability to travel regionally, nationally, and internationally, including overnight trips. * The ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. Longwood Gardens is committed to nurturing a diverse and inclusive environment that celebrates the complexities and differences of all living things. We welcome and respect diverse backgrounds, life experiences, and perspectives. Diversity creates a more beautiful world, sparks innovation, and unites us.

Responsibilities

The Associate Director of Collections will provide strategic leadership for the development and stewardship of Longwood's living collections, overseeing management plans and leading climate-focused initiatives. This role also involves supervising staff and participating in plant exploration expeditions.