Job Description
Job DescriptionThe Executive Director (ED) of Friends of the National Arboretum (FONA) will provide visionary leadership and strategic direction, driving the organization’s mission and goals forward. Working in close partnership with the U.S. National Arboretum (USNA), the ED will lead all fundraising initiatives, oversee program execution, and ensure impactful delivery of organizational priorities. As the primary ambassador for FONA, the ED will build and nurture strong relationships with partners, donors, and stakeholders. This is a unique opportunity for a dynamic and collaborative leader to build on FONA’s strong foundation, deepen its impact, and guide the organization into its next chapter—especially as it celebrates the USNA’s 100th anniversary and expands its public engagement efforts.
Essential Functions
Leadership & Strategic Direction
- Provides visionary and strategic leadership aligned with the organization's mission and guidance from the Board of Directors.
- Translates high-level goals into actionable plans that deliver measurable outcomes and long-term impact.
- Partners with the Board to ensure effective governance, strategic alignment, and organizational sustainability.
- Navigates complex public-private partnerships with diplomacy and clarity, particularly the strategic relationship with the USNA.
Management & Organizational Oversight
- Oversees the day-to-day operations of the organization, in partnership with the COO, with direct leadership of the Development (individual, corporate, institutional), Membership, and Communications functions.
- Provides strategic oversight of the organizational budget in partnership with the COO and Board of Directors, ensuring fiscal responsibility, alignment with strategic priorities, and compliance with nonprofit financial best practices.
- Ensures effective, future-focused management and professional development of all staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture.
- Champions a culture where individuals are supported fairly, treated with respect, and empowered to contribute fully.
- Maintains transparent and consistent communication with the Board, providing regular updates on organizational progress and key initiatives.
External Relations & Partnerships
- Serves as the public face and primary spokesperson of the organization, embodying a positive, solution-oriented presence that reinforces credibility and mission alignment.
- Liaises with USNA leadership and staff, nurturing strong, cooperative relationships and managing shared priorities.
- Cultivates and expands partnerships with nonprofits, government agencies, businesses, volunteers, and community members to strengthen the organization’s reach and impact.
- Navigates transitions of partner responsibilities into the organization’s portfolio, in coordination with USNA and the Board.
- Represents the organization with diplomacy and integrity, building broad-based support through outreach, advocacy, and community engagement.
- Provides strategic oversight of the Communications team, ensuring that messaging aligns with organizational priorities, public engagement goals, and mission impact.
Fundraising & Resource Development
- Leads the development and execution of a comprehensive fundraising strategy in partnership with the Board and senior staff, including efforts tied to USNA’s 100th anniversary celebration.
- Maintains and grows individual donations, foundation support, and grant funding, meeting or exceeding agreed-upon annual targets.
- Finalizes the Canopy Trail fundraising initiative and construction agreement, ensuring successful implementation and alignment with organizational goals.
- Identifies and develops new revenue-generating opportunities beyond traditional fundraising, including mission-aligned earned income, partnerships, or events, and leads the design and implementation of sustainable models to support organizational growth.
Competencies
- Visionary, values-driven, and strategic leadership with the ability to inspire and guide organizational growth
- Demonstrated success in building and sustaining public-private partnerships to advance mission-aligned initiatives
- Proven expertise in fundraising strategy and resource development across diverse revenue streams
- Agile, adaptive thinker with strong problem-solving skills; comfortable navigating complex, evolving environments
- Inclusive and collaborative team leader with a focus on staff development, mentorship, and organizational culture
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate effectively across diverse audiences including funders, educators, scientists, public officials, volunteers, and community members
- Results-oriented mindset with a track record of achieving measurable goals and driving accountability
- Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the professionalism to represent the organization externally and internally
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in a related field (e.g., nonprofit management, public administration, environmental studies) preferred
- Minimum of 7–10 years of progressively responsible leadership experience in the nonprofit, public, or philanthropic sectors
- Demonstrated success leading fundraising efforts, including major gifts, institutional giving, and donor cultivation strategies
- Strong organizational and project management skills; ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines under pressure
- Availability to work evenings, weekends, and extended hours as necessary
Salary Range
$160,000-$200,000
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