Vice President of Collections and Horticulture

Vice President of Collections and Horticulture
Lisle, IL

The Morton Arboretum (the Arboretum), globally recognized for its century-long commitment to tree-focused science, conservation, and education, seeks a dynamic, collaborative, expert leader to serve as its Vice President of Collections and Horticulture.  It is a transformative moment for the Arboretum, having recently completed a Strategic Plan in 2023 and a Comprehensive Site Plan in 2024.  The Vice President of Collections and Horticulture will serve as the most senior leader conceptualizing, developing, and executing the Arboretum’s strategies for collections, horticulture, and natural areas within these plans.  Importantly, this leader will also deepen a more formal integration with Science and Conservation at the Arboretum.

The Vice President of Collections and Horticulture will serve as a key subject matter expert on collections and horticulture among an engaged and experienced leadership team led by Jill Koski, President and CEO, as well as in partnership with the Board of Trustees.  This individual will provide visionary leadership, strategy, partnership and a strong culture within the Collections and Horticulture department as well as with colleagues throughout the Arboretum.  Leadership at the Arboretum is focused on professionals with significant botanical and research expertise as well as exceptional abilities in high-level collaborative management that supports innovation in a fast-paced environment.  

Minimum requirements include a master’s degree in horticulture, ecology, botany, or related plant science field from an accredited university and experience in horticultural, ecological, and/or conservation work with at least 10 years of management experience.  

Management experience in an arboretum, public garden, or a similar organization or environment is strongly preferred. An understanding of and appreciation for the development and management of museum collections is required.  

The position will remain open until filled, but applicants are highly encouraged to submit their materials as soon as possible to ensure full consideration. If you would like to be a key leader in this dynamic organization, please confidentially submit a current resume and cover letter to Kittleman & Associates at https://apptrkr.com/6107202

For more information about The Morton Arboretum visit www.mortonarb.org.

The Morton Arboretum is a champion for diversity, supporting a culture of inclusion that attracts, inspires, and engages people to achieve success. The Arboretum is committed to hire and develop employees based on job-related qualifications irrespective of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, or veteran status.

The Morton Arboretum is dedicated to complying with our obligations as an equal-opportunity employer. All applicants are guaranteed equal consideration for employment.